This course attempts to understand the manner in which religious discourse integrates both violence and non-violence as they mediate identity, ethics and competition for space. The ambivalence present in all religions as they justify violence while seeking simultaneously to curtail violent behavior will be presented as a creative moment for religions to choose “paths of peace.” The course offers a broad selection of readings beginning with philosophical and historical perspectives on religion and violence, moving on to specific religious perspectives on violence and finally grappling with thematic issues informing these perspectives.
3 credits.
Staff