Religion is an escapable part of the world today. This extends to international relations. But is it primarily a force for peace or conflict? There are numerous examples of religious tensions, but just as many of religion being a tool for peacebuilding. In this course we will explore these questions. We will survey broad questions about the nature of religion and international relations, specific theoretical concerns in the study of religion and conflict, and case studies on religion’s role in tensions. We will also conduct a close reading of two important works in the study of religion, peace and war to gain a deeper sense of how scholars attempt to explain these aspect of the world.
Course Learning Objectives
- Understand explanations for religion’s role in conflict and conflict resolution
- Engage with scholarly work on religion and conflict
- Generate original ideas into religion’s impact on international conflict