Unit 8: Overview

Introduction

We have explored many of the world’s historic religions, and in this unit we will examine what our text author calls “alternate paths” and “the modern search.”  The last several centuries have been ripe for the development and emergence of new religions, and the claimed revitalization of others.  In your reading and consideration, look for the influence of science, the changing role of women and understanding of authority, the emphasis on earth care.  Is the very role of religion changing?

An organization in Toronto, Canada- Scarboro Missions  -has done a lot of work as an interfaith organization in developing an interfaith sense of what is commonly referred to as the Download Golden Rule

.  Did you realize that many, if not most, religions have some version of this?  Follow any of the links to see what they're about and to explore the terrific resources they have developed for public use.  This is just one example of an organization bringing different faith traditions together to address some of the concerns raised in our reading this week.

Unit Learning Outcomes

At the conclusion of the unit, the learner will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate mastery of many terms and concepts associated with a growing number of new religious movements.
  2. Identify and discuss some of the leading examples of new religious movements and the changing nomenclature associated with them.
  3. Evaluate the complex relationship between diverse religious worldviews and responsible citizenship.
  4. Identify and discuss some of the significant developments challenging religion, such as the changing role of women and the ecology movement.
  5. Analyze the impacts of science, technology, and other modern challenges to traditional religious understandings.
  6. Synthesize knowledge from multiple disciplines and backgrounds to increase appreciation and understanding of the role of deeply held beliefs and value sets.

Reading Objectives

After reading Chapter 11, the student should be able to do the following:

  • Discuss the reasons for the emergence of new religious movements
  • Explain the difference between a cult and a sect
  • Describe major examples of alternative religion
  • Discuss the roles that new religious movements play

 

After reading Chapter 12, the student should be able to do the following:

  • Describe profound changes in the modern world
  • Discuss the impact of the women’s movement, science, and secularism
  • Explain the process of religious change and accommodation
  • Discuss the phenomenon of fundamentalism
  • Discuss the place that nature holds in religious thought
  • Explain the features of eclectic spirituality

Readings and Materials

Textbooks:

  • Author: Molloy - Chapter 11: Alternative Paths
  • Author: Molloy - Chapter 12: The Modern Search

Links to an external site.

Lecture/Chapter Overview/Unit Highlights:

Assignments

  • Discussion (40 points) - First post due 11:59 p.m., Thursday, CT.  Respond substantively to two or more classmates or instructor in different threads by 11:59 p.m., Sunday, CT.
  • Quiz (45 points) - Submit by 11:59 p.m., Sunday, CT.
  • Religion Chart (20 points) - Submit by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, CT.
  • Writing Assignment with topic chosen from suggested list (three additional papers required during term). Due by 11:59 PM, Thursday, Central Time.

 

VIEW ALL UNIT PAGES