TopModule Description
This module develops a nuanced understanding of expressions and issues related to religion in contemporary contexts, grounded in historical and sociological perspectives. It explores various socio-cultural, political, economic and other forces and processes that impact the manifold and complex issues related to religion and its intersections with society in global, national and local contexts. Beginning with problematizing the category “religion” and tracing its emergence historically and contextually as an analytical domain, the material is organized to introduce the multiple, complex and sometimes opposing strands and arguments in many social science studies of religion. This multi-disciplinary module emphasizes both the empirical and the theoretical issues that surface in studying religions and religious issues. There is also a particular focus on religious diversity and issues in Singapore wherever relevant.
Readings, Resources and Research
- Readings are drawn mostly from the works of contemporary social scientists (theoretical and empirical) and also include some media sources.
- There will be some focus and discussion on how to conduct simple research.
- Students have to undertake one group-based field research project and one small individual research project.