Course Contents

Definition of Religion, Elements of Religion, Functions of Religion, Theories of Religion, Sociological, Psycho-Analytical, The Sociological Analysis of Religion, Universal order of Religion, , Religion and Welfare, Integrated Power of Religion, World’s Major Religions (Judaism, Hinduism, Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Secularism/ Communism, Types of Religious Authorities, The Prophet, Clergy/ Organization of religious groups, The saints/ Molvies/ Ulema’s, Sects and Cults, Religion as the agency of social control, Evolutionary Theory, Science and Religion

Course Synopsis

The course is designed in a way to strike a balance between covering classical sociological theories of religious organization and practice with exploring contemporary topics, debates, and studies. There are three main objectives of the course: introduce the classical texts and familiarize the students with the major sociological approaches to the study of religion, carefully lay out the theoretical framework developed in each, and connect these to recent debates in the sociology of religion today.

Course Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate an understanding of key debates and the range of sociological approaches to religion • Critically apply key concepts to contemporary debates about the role of religion in the contemporary global world. • Effectively communicate understandings of key concepts in written forms by employing analytical skills.