Anthropology of Religion

The study of religious beliefs and rituals from different cultures around the world, mainly in small-scale and agricultural societies (e.g., Africa, Indonesia, Pacific Islands, South America) but may also include Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Instead of a theological perspective, the course studies religion in its socio-cultural context. Emphasis is on general theories that explain the functions of religion as well as case-studies that examine the particular meanings of religions. Topics may include: totemism; death, ghosts and the soul; magic versus science; myth; sorcery and witchcraft; male and female initiation ceremonies; purity and pollution beliefs; religion and social change. Prerequisite: ANTH 151, sophomore standing or permission of instructor.