Religious Studies (Optional Co-op) University of Lethbridge

Program Description

We encounter religion in many manifestations frequently on TV and the Internet: breathtaking mosques, colossal Buddhas, the Pope addressing huge crowds, brutal religious wars or unusual rituals. Studying religion enhances our understanding of what it is to be human. It enables us to learn more about the diverse cultures of the world, their ancient histories and their highest values. While you may not discover the meaning of life by studying religion, you will learn how others have answered that perennial human question, and how those answers have shaped people’s lives and the lives of those around them. The University of Lethbridge is a secular (non-religious) institution of learning; we do not try to promote belief in any of the religions that we study. Rather, we attempt to study religion in as objective a manner as possible. Of course, each person faces challenges when trying to do so with neutrality, because we may have predispositions for or against particular religions, or toward religion in general. In religious studies, our explorations are wide-ranging, embracing the human religious response, from the great world religions to marginal and quasi-religious phenomena, such as shamanism and magic. We examine history, social and cultural configurations, symbolism, and literature, as well as theologies and metaphysical philosophies within belief systems. You will study shared themes and marked differences in myths and rituals, and how religion permeates even our secular lives.

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