Conversion: The Changing Landscape of Faith and Identity

Course Description

Embark on a fascinating journey through the multifaceted world of religious conversion with our advanced course, "Conversion: The Changing Landscape of Faith and Identity." This comprehensive exploration delves into the religious, social, political, and legal implications of conversion, offering a unique lens through which to understand the dynamics of religious communities, identity formation, and cultural interactions.

Led by 26 world-renowned experts, this course provides an interdisciplinary approach to studying conversion, utilizing research tools from various academic fields. You'll gain intimate access to ancient texts in their original languages and English translations, as well as exposure to relevant works of art, all presented in an accessible digital format.

What students will learn from the course

• Understand conversion as a global human phenomenon
• Study world history through the prism of religious conversion
• Analyze different genres of historical and mythical writing
• Investigate visual arts' interpretation of historical and mythical events
• Develop independent research methods in the humanities
• Explore complex aspects of religious identities and community belonging
• Examine the dynamics of social borders and minority-majority relationships
• Gain insight into the forces driving conversion decisions

Prerequisites or skills necessary to complete the course

• Graduate-level understanding of historical events
• Strong reading comprehension skills
• Basic familiarity with religious studies concepts
• Ability to engage with complex interdisciplinary material

What the course will cover

• Introduction to the concept of religious conversion
• Individual conversion experiences and characteristics
• Women's conversion and gender-specific aspects
• Inter-religious identity transitions
• Conversion myths and their societal roles
• Religious polemics and arguments surrounding conversion
• Mass conversion phenomena and their historical impact
• Forced conversion and its effects on minorities
• Social and economic factors influencing conversion
• The relationship between conversion and identity formation

Who this course is for

This course is ideal for:

• Graduate students in religious studies, history, sociology, or anthropology
• Researchers interested in interdisciplinary approaches to religion and culture
• Professionals working in interfaith dialogue or religious organizations
• Anyone with a deep interest in understanding the complexities of religious identity and social dynamics

How learners can use these skills in the real world

The knowledge and skills gained from this course can be applied in various real-world contexts:

• Enhancing cultural sensitivity and understanding in diverse work environments
• Informing policy decisions related to religious freedom and minority rights
• Improving interfaith dialogue and community relations
• Conducting academic research in religious studies, history, or social sciences
• Developing educational programs on religious diversity and cultural exchange
• Analyzing contemporary social issues through a historical and religious lens

Syllabus

Each week includes a combination of lectures, readings, discussions, and analysis of primary sources and artworks, providing a rich and immersive learning experience.