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215 Religion Research Paper Topics for College Students

Studying religion at a college or a university may be a challenging course for any student. This isn’t because religion is always a sensitive issue in society, it is because the study of religion is broad, and crafting religious topics for research papers around them may be further complex for students. This is why sociology of religion research topics and many others are here, all for your use.

As students of a university or a college, it is essential to prepare religious topics for research papers in advance. There are many research paper topics on religion, and this is why the scope of religion remains consistently broad. They extend to the sociology of religion, research paper topics on society, argumentative essay topics, and lots more. All these will be examined in this article. Rather than comb through your books in search of inspiration for your next essay or research paper, you can easily choose a topic for your religious essay or paper from the following recommendations:

World Religion Research Paper Topics

If you want to broaden your scope as a university student to topics across religions of the world, there are religion discussion topics to consider. These topics are not just for discussion in classes, you can craft research around them. Consider:

The role of myths in shaping the world: Greek myths and their influence on the evolution of European religions
Modern History: The attitude of modern Europe on the history of their religion
The connection between religion and science in the medieval and modern world
The mystery in the books of Dan Brown is nothing but fiction: discuss how mystery shapes religious beliefs
Theocracy: an examination of theocratic states in contemporary society
The role of Christianity in the modern world
The myth surrounding the writing of the Bible
The concept of religion and patriarchy: examine two religions and how it oppresses women
People and religion in everyday life: how lifestyle and culture is influenced by religion
The modern society and the changes in the religious view from the medieval period
The interdependence of laws and religion is a contemporary thing: what is the role of law in religion and what is the role of religion in law?
What marked the shift from religion to humanism?
What do totemism and animalism denote?
Pre Colonial religion in Africa is savagery and barbaric: discuss
Cite three religions and express their views on the human soul
Hinduism influenced Indian culture in ways no religion has: discuss
Africans are more religious than Europeans who introduced Christian religion to them: discuss
Account for the evolution of Confucianism and how it shaped Chinese culture to date
Account for the concept of the history of evolution according to Science and according to a religion and how it influences the ideas of the religious soul
What is religious education and how can it promote diversity or unity?7
Workplace and religion: how religion is extended to all facets of life
The concept of fear in maintaining religious authorities: how authorities in religious places inspire fear for absolute devotion
Afro-American religion: a study of African religion in America
The Bible and its role in religions
Religion is more of emotions than logic
Choose five religions of the world and study the similarities in their ideas
The role of religious leaders in combating global terrorism
Terrorism: the place of religion in promoting violence in the Middle East
The influence of religion in modern-day politics
What will the world be like without religion or religious extremists?
Religion in the growth of communist Russia: how cultural revolution is synonymous with religion
Religion in the growth of communist China: how cultural revolution is synonymous with religion
The study of religions and ethnic rivalries in India
Terrorism in Islam is a comeback to the crusades
The role of the Thirty Years of War in shaping world diplomacy
The role of the Thirty Years of War in shaping plurality in Christianity
The religion and the promotion of economics
The place of world religions on homosexuality
Why does a country, the Vatican City, belong to the Catholic Church?
God and the concept of the supernatural: examine the idea that God is a supernatural being
The influence of religion in contemporary Japan
Religion and populism in the modern world
The difference between mythical creatures and gods
Polytheism and the possibility of world peace
Religion and violence in secular societies?
Warfare and subjugation in the spread of religion
The policies against migrant in Poland is targeted against Islam
The role of international organizations in maintaining religious peace
International terrorist organizations and the decline of order

Research Paper Topics Religion and Society

As a student in a university or MBA student, you may be requested to write an informed paper on sociology and religion. There are many sociology religion research paper topics for these segments although they may be hard to develop. You can choose out of the following topics or rephrase them to suit your research interest:

The influence of religion on the understanding of morality
The role of religion in marginalizing the LGBTQ community
The role of women in religion
Faith crisis in Christianity and Islamic religions
The role of colonialism in the spreading of religion: the spread of Christianity and Islam is a mortal sin
How does religion shape our sexual lifestyle?
The concept of childhood innocence in religion
Religion as the object of hope for the poor: how religion is used as a tool for servitude by the elite
The impact of traditional beliefs in today’s secular societies
How religion promotes society and how it can destroy it
The knowledge of religion from the eyes of a sociologist
Religious pluralism in America: how diverse religions struggle to strive
Social stratification and its role in shaping religious groups in America
The concept of organized religion: why the belief in God is not enough to join a religious group
The family has the biggest influence on religious choices: examine how childhood influences the adult’s religious interests
Islamophobia in European societies and anti-Semitism in America
The views of Christianity on interfaith marriage
The views of Islam on interfaith marriage
The difference between spirituality and religion
The role of discipline in maintaining strict religious edicts
How do people tell others about their religion?
The features of religion in sociology
What are the views of Karl Marx on religion?
What are the views of Frederic Engels on religion?
Modern Islam: the conflict of pluralism and secularism
Choose two religions and explore their concepts of divorce
Governance and religion: how religion is also a tool of control
The changes in religious ideas with technological evolution
Theology is the study of God for God, not humans
The most feared religion: how Islamic extremists became identified as terrorist organizations
The role of cults in the society: why religious people still have cults affiliations
The concept of religious inequality in the US
What does religion say about sexual violence?

Religion Essay Topics

As a college student, you may be required to write an essay on religion or morality. You may need to access a lot of religious essay topics to find inspiration for a topic of your choice. Rather than go through the stress of compiling, you can get more information for better performance from religion topics for research paper like:

The origin of Jihad in Islam and how it has evolved
Compare the similarities and differences between Christian and Judaism religions
The Thirty Years War and the Catholic church
The Holocaust: historic aggression or a religious war
Religion is a tool of oppression from the political and economic perspectives
The concept of patriarchy in religion
Baptism and synonym to ritual sacrifice
The life of Jesus Christ and the themes of theology
The life of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) and the themes of theology
How can religion be used to promote world peace?
Analyze how Jesus died and the reason for his death
Analyze the event of the birth of Christ
The betrayal of Jesus is merely to fulfill a prophecy
Does “prophecy” exist anywhere in religion?
The role of war in promoting religion: how crusades and terrorist attacks shape the modern world
The concept of Karma: is Karma real?
Who are the major theorists in religion and what do they say?
The connection of sociology with religion
Why must everyone be born again according to Christians?
What does religious tolerance mean?
What is the benefit of religion in society?
What do you understand about free speech and religious tolerance?
Why did the Church separate from the state?
The concept of guardian angels in religion
What do Islam and Christianity say about the end of the world?
Religion and the purpose of God for man
The concept of conscience in morality is overrated
Are there different sects in Christianity?
What does Islam or Christianity say about suicide?
What are the reasons for the Protestant Reformation?
The role of missionaries in propagating Christianity in Africa
The role of the Catholic church in shaping Christianity
Do we need an international religious organization to maintain international religious peace?
Why do people believe in miracles?

Argumentative Essay Topics on Religion

Creating argumentative essay topics on religion may be a daunting exercise regardless of your level. It is more difficult when you don’t know how to start. Your professor could be interested in your critical opinions about international issues bordering on religion, which is why you need to develop sensible topics. You can consider the following research paper topics religion and society for inspiration:

Religion will dominate humanity: discuss
All religions of the world dehumanize the woman
All men are slaves to religion
Karl Marx was right when he said religion is the return of the repressed, “the sigh of the oppressed creature”: discuss
Christianity declined in Europe with the Thirty Years War and it separated brothers and sisters of the Christian faith?
Islamic terrorism is a targeted attack on western culture
The danger of teen marriage in Islam is more than its benefits
The church should consider teen marriages for every interested teenager
Is faith fiction or reality?
The agape love is restricted to God and God’s love alone
God: does he exist or is he a fiction dominating the world?
Prayer works better without medicine: why some churches preach against the use of medicine
People change religion because they are confused about God: discuss
The church and the state should be together
Polygamous marriage is evil and it should be condemned by every religion
Cloning is abuse against God’s will
Religious leaders should also be political leaders
Abortion: a sin against God or control over your body
Liberty of religious association affects you negatively: discuss
Religious leaders only care about themselves, not the people
Everyone should consider agnosticism
Natural laws are the enemy of religion
It is good to have more than two faiths in a family
It is hard for the state to exist without religion
Religion as a cause of the World War One
Religion as a tool for capitalists
Religion doesn’t promote morality, only extremisms
Marriage: should the people or their religious leaders set the rules?
Why the modern church should acknowledge the LGBTQ: the fight for true liberalism
Mere coexistence is not religious tolerance
The use of candles, incense, etc. in Catholic worship is idolatrous and the same as pagan worship: discuss
The Christian religion is the same as Islam

Christianity Research Paper Topics on Religion

It doesn’t matter if you’re a Christian or not as you need to develop a range of topics for your essay or project. To create narrow yet all-inclusive research about Christianity in the world today, you can consider research topics online. Rather than rack your head or go through different pages on the internet, consider these:

Compare and contrast Christian and Islam religions
Trace the origin of Christianity and the similarity of the beliefs in the contemporary world
Account for the violent spread of Christianity during the crusades
Account for the state of Christianity in secular societies
The analysis of the knowledge of rapture in Christianity
Choose three contemporary issues and write the response of Christianity on them
The Catholic church and its role towards the continuance of sexual violence
The Catholic church and the issues of sexual abuse and scandals
The history of Christianity in America
The history of Christianity in Europe
The impact of Christianity on American slaves
The belief of Christianity on death, dying, and rapture
The study of Christianity in the medieval period
How Christianity influenced the western world
Christianity: the symbols and their meaning
Why catholic priests practice celibacy
Christianity in the Reformation Era
Discuss the Gnostic Gospels and their distinct historic influence on Christianity
The catholic church in the Third Reich of Germany
The difference between the Old Testament and the New Testament
What the ten commandments say from a theological perspective
The unpredictable story of Moses
The revival of Saul to Paul: miracle or what?
Are there Christian cults in the contemporary world?
Gender differences in the Christian church: why some churches don’t allow women pastors
The politics of the Catholic church before the separation of the church and the state
The controversies around Christian religion and atheism: why many people are leaving the church
What is the Holy Trinity and what is its role in the church?
The miracles of the New Testament and its difference from the Old Testament’s
Why do people question the existence of God?
God is a spirit: discuss

Islam Research Paper Topics

As a student of the Islamic religion or a Muslim, you may be interested in research on the religion. Numerous Islam research paper topics could be critical in shaping your research paper or essay. These are easy yet profound research paper topics on religion Islam for your essays or papers:

Islam in the Middle East
Trace the origin of Islam
Who are the most important prophets in Islam?
Discuss the Sunni and other groups of Muslims
The Five Pillars of Islam are said to be important in Islam, why?
Discuss the significance of the Holy Month
Discuss the significance of the Holy Pilgrimage
The distinctions of the Five Pillars of Islam and the Ten Commandments?
The controversies around the hijab and the veil
Western states are denying Muslims: why?
The role of religious leaders in their advocacy of sexual abuse and violence
What the Quran says about rape and what does Hadiths say, too?
Rape: men, not the women roaming the street should be blamed
What is radicalism in Islam?
The focus of Islam is to oppress women: discuss
The political, social, and economic influence of modernity on Islam
The notable wives of prophet Muhammad and their role in Islam: discuss
Trace the evolution of Islam in China and the efforts of the government against them
Religious conflict in Palestine and Israel: how a territorial conflict slowly became a religious war
The study of social class and the Islamic religion
Suicide bombers and their belief of honor in death: the beliefs of Islamic jihadists
Account for the issues of marginalization of women in Muslim marriages
The role of literature in promoting the fundamentals of Islam: how poetry was used to appeal to a wider audience
The concept of feminism in Islam and why patriarchy seems to be on a steady rise
The importance of Hadiths in the comprehension of the Islamic religion
Does Islam approve of democracy?
Islamic terrorism and the role of religious leaders
The relationship of faith in Islam and Christianity: are there differences in the perspectives of faith?
How the Quran can be used as a tool for religious tolerance and religious intolerance
The study of Muslims in France: why is there religious isolation and abuse in such a society?
Islam and western education: what are the issues that have become relevant in recent years?
Is there a relationship between Islam and Science?
Western culture: why there are stereotypes against Muslims abroad
Mythology in Islam: what role does it play in shaping the religion?
Islam and the belief in the afterlife: are there differences between its beliefs with other religions’?
Why women are not allowed to take sermons in Islam

Can’t Figure Out Your Religion Paper?

With these religious research paper topics, you’re open to change the words or choose a topic of your choice for your research paper or essay. Writing an essay after finding a topic is relatively easy. Since you have helpful world religion research paper topics, research paper topics on religion and society, religion essay topics, argumentative essay topics on religion, Christianity research paper topics, and Islam research paper topics, you can go online to research different books that discuss the topic of your choice.

However, if you require the assistance of professional academic experts who offer custom academic help, you’ll find them online. There are a few writing help online groups that assist in writing your essays or research paper as fast as possible. You can opt for their service if you’re too busy or unmotivated to write your research paper or essay.

The Best 50 Religion Research Topics to Use for Students

In our multi-religious and multicultural society, crafting a great research paper on religion is a challenging task. Indeed, this challenge starts from the first stage of preparing your paper: identifying a good religious research paper topic. Further, it is almost impossible to write a paper without offending one or more religious feelings, especially when working on the history of religion. To make writing your paper easy, you must start by picking good religious paper topics.

In this paper, we list 50 religion research paper topics and a guide for selecting the best. If you want to get good grades, start with the right step- the best topic.

Why You Need the Best Religion Research Paper Topics

When working on any research paper, the most important step is identifying the topic. Indeed, the topic determines the direction you will take with the paper. Here are other benefits of selecting the best topics for a religious research paper.

It allows you to work on the preferred area of interest.
With a good topic, you do not get bored midway.
A great topic offers you the opportunity to fill knowledge gaps in the field of religious studies.
It is your opportunity to make your contribution felt.
Picking the best topics is the first step to better grades.

How to Pick the Best Topics for a Religious Research Paper

Now that you know the benefits of selecting the best topics for your religious papers, you might be wondering, “How do I pick it?” Here are some useful tips to help you identify the best:

Brainstorm your religious study subject. This will help you to get the best ideas to work on.
Comprehensively research your area of interest. For example, you might be interested in the history of religion, church and social action, creationism, or modernism and religion.
Look at the latest happenings. Things such as religious involvement in economics and education might inspire your paper ideas.
Follow your teacher’s recommendation. Often, professors give guidelines to students on the areas they should work on. For example, if you were covering a certain area in your religious education studies class; your teacher might ask you to pick topics from that section only. But in most cases, teachers leave the topics open for students to select on their own.
Read other research on religious studies. Most researchers point at gaps that exist in the niche so that later students can work on them. This is a great place to commence your research paper.

The Best Religious Topics for a Research Paper

Whether you prefer working on religious controversial topics or philosophy of religion essay topics, we have listed the best 50 ideas to get you started. Check them and pick them as they are or tweak them to fit your preferred format.

Christian and economics.
Religion and homosexuality.
Black churches.
Christianity history.
Comparing and contrasting Christian and Islam history.
A closer look at world religions without gods.
The concept of religion and soul.
The impact of religious laws on morality.
The phenomenon of trickster gods.
The impact of Greek religion on European culture.
Impact of religion on American culture.
Impact of religion on Chinese culture.
Comparing the similarities of images of gods in different religions.
How does gender affect religion?
Islam in modern India.
What is the future of religion?
Afterlife: What are the differences in diverse religions?
What are the main causes of the faith crisis?
Analyzing the influence of female clergy on religion.
Relooking at the reincarnation concept.
What role do men have in religion?
The impacts of yoga on religion.
Can faith remove the harshness of adolescence?
Why is Ramadhan referred to as the holy month?
Comparing religious counselors to classical psychologists.
A closer look at the main differences between the bible and Koran.
What is the importance of Christmas for Christians?
Creationism.
Religion and science.
How do people implement different religious practices today?
Should atheism be considered another form of religion?
Judaism: A closer look at its history.
Analyzing attitudes towards sex in the Christian religion.
Children: Are they considered innocent in all religions?
A closer look at the history of Hinduism.
A closer look at the existence of God as a supernatural being.
Comparing and contrasting monotheistic cultures.
Female goddesses.
Chaplain-ship: How does it trigger peace and harmony?
Impact of women in the history of Christianity.
What are the implications of forced religion on people?
Religion and terrorism.
Religion in the workplace.
Religion and evolution.
Nordic mythology.
A world without religion: Is it possible?
Applying religion to address global problems.
The primal religions.
Do you think religion should play a role in modern politics?
Do you think religion influences societal virtues?

Got the Best Religion Topics to Write About – What Next?

Now that you have a list of the best world religion research paper topics, it is important to appreciate that the journey of writing your assignment has just started. The next step is to write down your paper in line with your teacher’s guidelines. This is where your writing skills come into play. Well, it is never easy for many students. Often, some lack good writing skills, have other engagements, or acquire the right resources is a challenge. For others, the deadline is too tight and almost impossible to beat. The best idea is to seek affordable college assignment writing help.

After selecting the best topics, be they sociology or religion research topics or religious debate topics, writing help is provided by experts with years of experience in academic writing. They have handled such papers before and are willing to help you craft the best paper for top grades. Well, do not let that religious research paper stress you anymore, let a professional help you!

Exploring Faith and Belief: Religious Research Paper Topics

Table of contents

1 Challenges in Religious Research Paper Topics
2.1 Christian Research Paper Topics
2.2 Islam Research Topics
2.3 Siddhartha Essay Topics
2.4 Buddhism Essay Topics
2.5 Hinduism Research Paper Topics
2.6 Judaism Religion
2.7 Theology Research Paper Topics

Exploring the realm of religion opens a multitude of avenues for scholarly inquiry. Research papers on religion delve into profound questions that have captivated humanity throughout history. These studies not only illuminate the intricacies of faith and belief systems but also examine their profound impact on culture, society, and personal identity.

Choosing a research topic about religion requires a thoughtful consideration of a wide spectrum of beliefs, practices, and philosophical interpretations. From the rituals that bind communities to the spiritual philosophies that drive individual conduct, religion research topics offer a rich tapestry of areas for academic exploration. With such diversity, the challenge lies in pinpointing a singular path that resonates with both current discourse and timeless questions of the human experience.

Challenges in Religious Research Paper Topics

Navigating religious research paper topics presents a unique set of challenges. Crafting research questions about religion demands sensitivity and a deep understanding of diverse belief systems. Scholars often grapple with the subjective nature of spirituality, striving to maintain academic rigor while exploring profoundly personal and often religious controversial topics. The multifaceted nature of religious research paper topics also requires an interdisciplinary approach, intersecting with history, sociology, psychology, and theology.

Additionally, researchers must balance insider and outsider perspectives, often working to gain the trust of faith communities while preserving critical distance. Research papers on religion must also contend with varying interpretations of sacred texts and practices, which can vary widely even within a single tradition. Moreover, the dynamic nature of religion, constantly evolving in the face of modernity and globalization, poses a challenge to researchers aiming to capture the contemporary religious landscape accurately. The task, then, is to approach these topics with a blend of scholarly curiosity, methodological precision, and cultural competence.

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List of 70 Religion Topics to Write About

Embark on an intellectual journey with this curated list of 70 religion topics, each offering a unique window into the diverse ways faith shapes and is shaped by the world we live in.

Christian Research Paper Topics

Diving into Christianity offers a rich vein of inquiry for scholars. These biblical topics for research papers present fresh perspectives on age-old discussions, inviting a deeper understanding of one of the world’s most-followed faiths.

The Evolution of Christian Thought in Postmodern Society
Analyzing the Role of Women in Early Christian Communities
The Influence of Christian Ethics on Modern Business Practices
Cross-Cultural Interpretations of Christian Symbols in Global Contexts
The Impact of Digital Media on Christian Worship and Community
Environmental Stewardship and its Theological Roots in Christianity
The Psychological Effects of Christian Practices on Mental Health
A Comparative Study of Christian Mysticism and Contemporary Spiritual Movements
The Political Expressions of Liberation Theology in Latin America
Christian Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence and Bioethics

Islam Research Topics

The study of Islam uncovers a tapestry of cultural, theological, and historical themes. These research topics on religion provide a platform for a nuanced exploration of Islam’s multifaceted impact on the world.

Modern Interpretations of Sharia Law in Various Islamic Societies
The Role of Sufism in Contemporary Islamic Practice
Islamic Economic Principles and Their Application in the 21st Century
Gender Dynamics within Islamic Theology and Practice
Islamic Artistic Expression in the Digital Age
The Influence of Islam on Classical Scientific Discovery and Philosophy
The Political Significance of Islam in Non-Majority Muslim Countries
Interfaith Dialogues between Islamic and Western Philosophical Traditions
The Evolution of Islamic Educational Institutions from Classical to Modern Times
The Representation of Islam in Western Media and its Societal Impact

Siddhartha Essay Topics

Hermann Hesse’s “Siddhartha” is a rich narrative ripe for exploration, intertwining themes of self-discovery and spirituality. These religion topics to write about offer a pathway to understanding the profound messages embedded in this classic tale.

The Concept of Enlightenment in Siddhartha Versus Traditional Buddhist Teachings
River Imagery as a Symbol of Life’s Journey in Siddhartha
Siddhartha’s Relationship with Nature as a Reflection of His Spiritual Quest
The Influence of Hermann Hesse’s Personal Beliefs on the Portrayal of Religion in Siddhartha
Comparing Siddhartha’s Ascetic Life with Modern Minimalist Movements
The Role of Mentorship and its Impact on Siddhartha’s Spiritual Evolution
The Dichotomy of Material Wealth and Spiritual Fulfillment in Siddhartha
Siddhartha’s Search for Authenticity Amidst Societal Expectations
The Function of Love in Siddhartha’s Journey Towards Self-Actualization
Relevance of Siddhartha’s Lessons in the Context of Contemporary Religious Practice

Buddhism Essay Topics

Buddhism, with its profound philosophical foundations and global influence, provides a fertile ground for scholarly exploration. These religious research topics and world religion paper topics delve into the heart of Buddhist doctrine and its practical implications in today’s world.

The Intersection of Buddhist Philosophy and Contemporary Psychotherapy
Ethical Consumption and Environmentalism through the Lens of Buddhist Teachings
The Role of Meditation in Modern Healthcare as Influenced by Buddhism
Analysis of Buddhist Responses to the Challenges of Globalization
The Adaptation of Zen Aesthetics in Western Art and Architecture
Buddhist Principles in Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding Efforts
The Impact of Technological Advancements on Traditional Buddhist Practices
A Study of Gender Roles within Buddhist Monastic Communities
The Influence of Buddhism on Western Philosophical Thought
Exploring the Growth of Buddhist Tourism and its Cultural Impacts

Hinduism Research Paper Topics

Hinduism’s rich tapestry of mythology, philosophy, and cultural practices presents an expansive field for academic inquiry. The following religion topics for research paper encompass both the depth of Hindu traditions and contemporary issues, offering a platform for insightful discourse.

Analyzing the Impact of Hinduism on India’s Environmental Policies
Feminine Divinity in Hinduism and its Influence on Gender Roles
The Evolution of Hindu Temple Architecture Over Centuries
Caste System Interpretations in Modern Hindu Society
Yoga as a Global Phenomenon: Origins and Transformations from Hindu Traditions
The Role of Hinduism in Forming India’s National Identity
The Philosophy of Karma and its Relevance to Modern Ethics
Ayurveda: Ancient Hindu Science of Health in the Modern Wellness Industry
The Dynamics of Hindu Pilgrimage: Economy, Ecology, and Tradition
Hindu Rituals and their Psychological Implications in Contemporary Practice

Judaism Religion

The exploration of Judaism offers insights into one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, rich with history and tradition. While the following topics are not centered on religion research paper topics, they reflect the depth and diversity inherent in Jewish studies.

The Influence of Jewish Mysticism on Contemporary Religious Thought
The Preservation of Jewish Traditions in Diaspora Communities
Jewish Perspectives on Bioethics and Modern Medical Dilemmas
The Role of the Synagogue in Jewish Cultural and Religious Life
The Impact of the Holocaust on Theological Understandings in Judaism
Jewish Contributions to Interfaith Dialogue and Peacebuilding
The Evolution of Kosher Laws and Their Application in the Food Industry
The Intersection of Jewish Law and Modern State Legislation
The Role of Hebrew Language Revival in Jewish Identity Formation
Jewish Feminist Theology and its Quest for Gender Equality in Religious Practice

Theology Research Paper Topics

Theology, the systematic study of the divine, invites scholars to probe the depths of religious belief and practice. These theology research paper topics are designed to inspire critical thought and original analysis on various aspects of spiritual inquiry.

The Role of Prophecy in Abrahamic Religions Comparative Study
Liberation Theology’s Influence on Social Justice Movements
Theological Responses to the Problem of Evil in Different Faiths
The Impact of Feminist Theology on Traditional Religious Practices
The Integration of Theology and Science in the Modern World
The Concept of the Afterlife in Theological and Philosophical Perspectives
Ecumenism and the Pursuit of Christian Unity in Theology
Theological Underpinnings of Contemporary Environmental Ethics
The Influence of Digital Media on Theological Education
The Role of Ritual in Expressing and Shaping Theological Beliefs

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35 Inspiring Theology and Religion Research Topics for Undergraduates

Table of contents

Picture this – you're sitting at your desk, a blank document open on your screen, the cursor blinking back at you. The task? A research paper for your theology and religious studies class. The problem? You have no idea what your topic should be. We've all been there. Whether you're a novice researcher or a seasoned academic, choosing a research paper topic can be daunting.

But fear not, brave scholar! Whether you're interested in the spiritual beliefs that have shaped societies over millennia or the philosophical debates that underpin religious thought, theology and religious studies offer a vast, rich field to explore. So, let's turn that daunting task into an exciting opportunity. In this blog post, we'll explore 30 inspiring research topic ideas for undergraduate theology and religious studies students. But first, let's better understand this intriguing field of study.

The Power of Interfaith Dialogue

Interfaith dialogue plays an instrumental role in promoting understanding, respect, and peace between people of different religious and cultural backgrounds. It encourages constructive conversations that facilitate empathy and respect for diversity. Here are several aspects to focus on:

1. Necessity of Interfaith Dialogue in a Multicultural Society

Explore how interfaith dialogue can help create cohesive multicultural societies.
Potential sources: Studies on multicultural societies, case studies on successful interfaith dialogue initiatives.

2. The Role of Interfaith Dialogue in Peacebuilding

Analyze how interfaith dialogue has been used as a tool for peacebuilding in areas of religious conflict.
Potential sources: Reports from international peacekeeping organizations, historical accounts of conflict resolution.

3. Interfaith Dialogue and Mutual Understanding

Discuss the significance of interfaith dialogue in promoting mutual understanding and respect among diverse religious communities.
Potential sources: Interfaith dialogue guides, accounts of interfaith initiatives.

4. Education and Interfaith Dialogue

Examine the role of education in fostering interfaith dialogue and how it can be integrated into educational curricula.
Potential sources: Educational policies, studies on religious education.

5. The Role of Religious Leaders in Interfaith Dialogue

Investigate the influence of religious leaders in encouraging or discouraging interfaith dialogue.
Potential sources: Statements and speeches of religious leaders, accounts of interfaith meetings.

6. Interfaith Dialogue and the Media

Discuss the role of media in promoting or impeding interfaith dialogue, and how it can be used constructively.
Potential sources: Media studies on religious coverage, case studies on media's role in interfaith initiatives.

7. Obstacles to Effective Interfaith Dialogue

Identify common obstacles to interfaith dialogue and propose strategies to overcome them.
Potential sources: Studies on interfaith dialogue, reports on religious conflicts.

8. Interfaith Dialogue and Social Justice

Explore how interfaith dialogue can contribute to social justice movements and the advocacy for human rights.
Potential sources: Reports from human rights organizations, accounts of social justice movements involving interfaith dialogue.

9. The Future of Interfaith Dialogue

Consider the future of interfaith dialogue in an increasingly globalized and interconnected world.
Potential sources: Futuristic studies on religion, expert opinions on the future of interfaith dialogue.

10. Case Studies of Successful Interfaith Dialogue

Analyze case studies of successful interfaith dialogue initiatives and draw lessons from them.
Potential sources: Records of successful interfaith dialogues, interviews with participants.

In this journey of understanding the power of interfaith dialogue, it's crucial to approach each topic with respect and sensitivity, acknowledging the diversity of beliefs and practices within and across religious traditions.

Exploring World Religions: Comparative Studies

Exploring world religions through a comparative lens allows for a deeper understanding of the diversity, complexity, and richness of different religious traditions. This section of the dissertation could delve into the following areas:

1. Methodologies in Comparative Religion

Discuss various approaches to comparative religion studies, their benefits, and potential limitations.
Potential sources: Academic texts on comparative religious studies, methodology guides.

2. Comparative Analysis of Major World Religions

Examine key religious concepts, beliefs, practices, and rituals across major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, and others.
Potential sources: Religious texts, scholarly articles, ethnographic studies.

3. Similarities and Differences in Religious Practices

Identify and discuss similarities and differences in the ways that different religions approach worship, ritual, and community life.
Potential sources: Ethnographic studies, scholarly articles on religious practices, religious texts.

4. Comparative Analysis of Religious Philosophies

Analyze the philosophical underpinnings of different religions, comparing their approaches to questions of morality, existence, knowledge, and the nature of the divine.
Potential sources: Religious philosophy texts, scholarly articles on religious philosophies, expert opinions.

5. Comparative Study of Religious Myths and Stories

Compare and contrast the myths, stories, parables, and legends that form part of the narrative traditions of different religions.
Potential sources: Religious texts, scholarly articles on religious narratives, studies on mythology.

6. Interactions and Influences among Religions

Discuss historical interactions between different religions and how they have influenced each other's development and practices.
Potential sources: Historical accounts, scholarly articles on religious interactions, studies on syncretism.

7. The Role of Religion in Society: A Comparative Analysis

Analyze the societal roles of religion in different cultures and societies, examining how different religions interact with and influence social structures, norms, and values.
Potential sources: Sociological studies on religion, case studies, historical accounts.

8. Comparative Study of Religious Reform Movements

Compare and contrast various religious reform movements across different religions, examining their causes, impacts, and outcomes.
Potential sources: Historical texts, scholarly articles on religious reform movements, case studies.

9. The Evolution of Religions Over Time

Explore how various religions have evolved over time, comparing the ways in which they have adapted to changes in society, science, and technology.
Potential sources: Historical studies, scholarly articles on the evolution of religions, religious texts.

10. Case Studies in Comparative Religion

Conduct in-depth case studies of particular aspects of different religions, drawing out points of comparison and contrast.
Potential sources: Case study reports, academic articles, religious texts.

Comparative studies of world religions can serve to broaden our perspectives, deepen our understanding, and foster greater respect for the variety of religious experiences and expressions around the world.

Religious Influences on Society and Culture

Religion profoundly influences society and culture. It is a force that shapes our understanding of morality, law, and human relationships, influences our arts and literature, and plays a key role in social cohesion and conflict. This section of the dissertation would explore these influences in the following ways:

1. The Role of Religion in Shaping Morality

Investigate how religion forms moral codes and principles in different societies, examining the ways in which these codes shape behavior and social norms.
Potential sources: Sociological and philosophical texts, religious doctrines, scholarly articles on morality and religion.

2. Religion and the Formation of Law

Explore how religious principles have influenced legal systems around the world, from religious laws themselves to secular laws influenced by religious thought.
Potential sources: Legal texts, religious scriptures, scholarly articles on law and religion.

3. Religious Influences on Arts and Literature

Examine how religion has influenced various art forms and literature, from religious iconography in visual arts to religious themes in literature.
Potential sources: Art history texts, literary analysis, scholarly articles on religion in arts and literature.

4. The Impact of Religion on Social Cohesion and Conflict

Discuss the dual role of religion in promoting social unity and causing conflict, drawing from historical and contemporary examples.
Potential sources: Sociological and historical texts, case studies, news articles, scholarly articles on religion and conflict.

5. Religion and Cultural Identity

Explore how religion contributes to the formation of cultural identities and how these identities can influence religious practices and beliefs.
Potential sources: Cultural studies, ethnographic research, scholarly articles on religion and identity.

6. Religious Influences on Gender Roles

Examine the role of religion in shaping gender norms and expectations in different societies.
Potential sources: Gender studies, sociological texts, scholarly articles on religion and gender.

7. The Role of Religion in Education

Investigate the role of religion in shaping education systems, curricula, and philosophies of education.
Potential sources: Education policy documents, scholarly articles on religion and education.

8. Religion and Social Change

Analyze the role of religion in social movements and societal changes, such as civil rights movements, environmental movements, or movements for gender equality.
Potential sources: Historical texts, sociological studies, scholarly articles on religion and social change.

9. The Influence of Religion on Healthcare and Well-being

Discuss how religious beliefs and practices can influence attitudes towards health, disease, medical ethics, and well-being.
Potential sources: Medical ethics texts, scholarly articles on religion and health, case studies.

10. Case Studies in Religious Influence

Conduct in-depth case studies of specific instances of religious influence on society and culture.
Potential sources: Case studies, historical texts, academic articles, cultural analyses.

Religion's pervasive influence on society and culture is a fascinating area of study. Understanding these influences can provide insight into how societies function, how cultures develop, and how individuals form their identities and worldviews.

Religion and LGBTQ+ Rights: A Comparative Study

The intersection of religion and LGBTQ+ rights is a hotly debated topic in both academic and public spheres. Understanding how different religions view and influence LGBTQ+ rights can provide valuable insights into broader societal attitudes and legal frameworks. Here are some aspects you could delve into:

1. Religious Doctrines and LGBTQ+ Rights: A Comparative Analysis

Compare the doctrines of different religions regarding LGBTQ+ issues.
Explore how these doctrines have evolved over time.
Potential sources: Religious texts, theological studies, writings from religious leaders.

2. The Role of Religion in Shaping Societal Attitudes Towards the LGBTQ+ Community

Analyze the influence of religious beliefs on societal attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community.
Explore differences and similarities across various cultures and religions.
Potential sources: Sociological studies, surveys on religion and societal attitudes, academic papers on religion and LGBTQ+ rights.

3. The Impact of Religious Lobbying on LGBTQ+ Legislation

Examine the influence of religious lobbying on laws related to LGBTQ+ rights.
Consider both progressive and conservative religious movements.
Potential sources: Legislation history, records of religious lobbying activities, studies on religion and public policy.

4. LGBTQ+ Rights Advocacy Within Religious Communities

Explore the role of LGBTQ+ advocacy groups within religious communities.
Discuss how these groups navigate the intersection of religious beliefs and LGBTQ+ rights.
Potential sources: Statements and publications from advocacy groups, news articles, interviews with advocacy group members.

5. Religion, Conversion Therapy, and Mental Health

Investigate the practice of conversion therapy within religious communities.
Discuss its impacts on mental health and legal responses to this practice.
Potential sources: Psychological studies, survivor testimonies, legislation documents.

In this part, your objective is to shed light on the complex relationship between religion and LGBTQ+ rights. Ensure that your analysis respects the diversity of views within each religion and emphasize the importance of promoting understanding and human rights.

Choosing Your Topic: A Handy Guide

Having established a broad context of the study of religion, it's now time to choose your specific research topic. The selection of a topic is critical as it sets the direction for your research and, ultimately, the success of your dissertation. Here are some guidelines that may help you:

Personal Interest : Select a topic that genuinely interests you. Your passion for the subject will help to sustain your motivation during the often arduous process of researching and writing your dissertation.

Familiarity : While it can be exciting to venture into new territory, choosing a topic you are already familiar with can often prove beneficial, especially if you're already well-versed in some of the literature or theoretical approaches related to your topic.

Originality : Although your topic should be based on established scholarship, it should also make an original contribution to the field. Avoid merely summarizing existing research; instead, seek to provide a new perspective or uncover previously unexplored aspects.

Feasibility : Keep in mind practical considerations such as the availability of resources, time constraints, and the scope of your project. You want your project to be challenging, but also achievable within your given timeframe and resources.

Relevance : Consider the relevance of your topic to the current academic discourse. Selecting a topic that relates to ongoing debates or recent developments in the field can help to ensure that your research will be of interest to others.

To guide you through the process of choosing your topic, here are a few steps you might follow:

Brainstorming : Start by brainstorming a list of potential topics. Don't worry about being too precise at this stage.

Preliminary Research : Conduct some preliminary research on each of your potential topics. Read recent journal articles, check out related books, and familiarize yourself with the current discourse surrounding each topic.

Narrowing Down : After conducting your preliminary research, narrow down your list of potential topics. Discard topics that don't seem feasible or that don't hold as much interest for you as others.

Refinement : Once you have a shortlist of potential topics, refine each one. Develop a research question for each topic and consider what kind of research would be necessary to answer it.

Final Selection : After refining each topic, make your final selection. Choose the topic that you are most interested in, that is most feasible, and that will make the most significant contribution to the field.

Seek Feedback : Once you've selected your topic, seek feedback from your dissertation advisor and other mentors. They can provide valuable insight and help to further refine your topic.

Remember, your dissertation is a significant piece of work that represents a culmination of your academic journey. Choose a topic that not only fulfills the requirements of your degree but also allows you to showcase your intellectual curiosity and scholarly skills.

Understanding Theology and Religious Studies

Theology and religious studies is a diverse and fascinating field, delving into the depths of human history, culture, philosophy, ethics, and more. It's not just about studying religious texts and rituals; it's also about understanding how these beliefs and practices shape societies, influence individual behavior, and impact global events.

Whether you're studying a mainstream religion like Christianity, Islam, or Buddhism, or exploring the philosophies of lesser-known or ancient religions, you'll find that this field is ripe with intriguing research questions. This field allows for a broad array of research approaches, encompassing historical, philosophical, anthropological, sociological perspectives, and even engaging with modern debates around politics, human rights, and scientific progress.

So, whether you're drawn to the metaphysical questions or the practical implications, theology and religious studies provide a rich field of research that can help illuminate the world in surprising and insightful ways.

Now that we have a good grasp of the field let's delve into some potential research topics that might pique your interest. The following topics are designed to be diverse, covering a wide range of areas within theology and religious studies. Each topic will come with some bullet-pointed guidelines on how you might approach your research. Ready? Let's jump in!

The study of religion is a broad and multi-faceted field that offers numerous potential topics for dissertation research. The intersection of religion with society, culture, politics, and personal identity provides a fertile ground for intriguing questions and deep scholarly exploration.

Whether examining the theological complexities of a single faith, comparing the similarities and differences between multiple religious traditions, investigating the societal impact of religious practices and beliefs, or diving into the transformative potential of interfaith dialogues, the opportunities are vast and varied. The key is to choose a topic that resonates personally, offers a chance for original research, and contributes meaningfully to the ongoing academic discourse.

In this ever-evolving world, understanding religion’s role and impact becomes increasingly significant. By choosing a topic that contributes to this understanding, you engage in a conversation that spans across cultures, continents, and centuries, gaining insights that extend well beyond the academic sphere and into the diverse realities of human existence.

Your dissertation is more than a paper; it is an intellectual endeavor that can have an impact in academia and beyond. It is a testament to your commitment, intellect, and passion in your chosen field. Choose wisely, dedicate earnestly, and let your work add a valuable brick to the edifice of knowledge that the study of religion is.

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Religion, Theology and Philosophy Dissertation Topics

Published by Alvin Nicolas at January 6th, 2023 , Revised On March 17, 2023

Introduction

As part of the religious, theology, and philosophy studies course, dissertation writing is inherently vital to the final result. Various religions are practised in the world today. Some of the major religions include; Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, and Sikhism.

In the contemporary world, religion is often not associated with politics and worldly life. Nevertheless, we can not deny its relationship and influence on humans and global peace. Therefore it is vital to choose a research topic that adds to the current body of literature.

To help you choose an appropriate topic and its subsequent research methodology, below is a list of issues classified using the thematic and exploratory approach for the religious studies dissertation.

PhD qualified writers of our team have developed these topics, so you can trust to use these topics for drafting your dissertation.

You may also want to start your dissertation by requesting a brief research proposal from our writers on any of these topics, which includes an introduction to the problem, research question , aim and objectives, literature review , along with the proposed methodology of research to be conducted. Let us know if you need any help in getting started.

Check our dissertation example to get an idea of how to structure your dissertation .

W“Our expert dissertation writers can help you with all stages of the dissertation writing process including topic research and selection, dissertation plan, dissertation proposal, methodology, statistical analysis, primary and secondary research, findings and analysis, and complete dissertation writing.“

2022 Religion, Theology and Philosophy Research Topics

Does religion make society patriarchal, or does society make religion patriarchal a historical analysis of islam and hinduism in southasia.

Research Aim: This research aims to find the relationship between patriarchal society and religion. It will analyse a causal link between both phenomena by discovering whether faith makes society patriarchal or a particular social structure that makes religion patriarchal. And to show this relationship, this research will use Islam and Hinduism as a case study to establish whether these religions made SouthAsian countries patriarchal or these countries with their specific cultures and traditions made these religions patriarchal.

The Role of Feminist Religious Movements in Promoting Gender Equality- A Feminist Critique of Christianity and Islam on Lacking Gender Equality

Research Aim: This research explores the impact of feminist religious movements on gender equality worldwide. It presents a historical view of how changing women’s religious ideologies helped them attain their rights worldwide. Moreover, it offers a thorough feminist critique of the world’s two most followed religions, Christianity and Islam, on how they cannot provide women with their due rights. Keeping in view how these religions failed to give women their rights, it will show how the increasing role of women in these religions helped them get their rights.

Who Does it Better? Western vs Eastern Philosophy in Defining the Role of Genders in Society- An Analysis Through a Plutonic Lens

Research Aim: This research compares Western and Eastern philosophies in defining the gender roles in society through a Platonic point of view. It will reach and contrast both perspectives regarding treating men and women in various societal parts. Then it will use Pluto’s philosophical theories to show which philosophy has defined these roles better by providing a detailed critique on both. Lastly, as objectively as possible, it will show which philosophy is better through various metrics defined by Pluto and other Western and Eastern Philosophers.

Does God Promote Wars? The Role of Religion in the World Wars: A Critique of Richard Dawkins

Research Aim: This research sheds light on a crucial debate in religion and wars studies whether religion has something to do with wars. It will analyse the world wars to show whether religious elements made conflicts worse or other factors that overshadowed the spiritual aspects. Furthermore, it will include the viewpoint of famous evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins, a part of the neo-atheist movement. His critique of God and religions will help to understand the relationship comprehensively.

Does Power Corrupt Religion? The Role of State in Using Religious Actors for its Political Motives- A Case of the US and Al Qaeda

Research Aim: This research shows how enormous political powers can use religion as a tool for their political motives. It will analyse a state’s channels to influence religion in a country or other countries. Moreover, it will identify which immense political powers fulfilled primary political motives throughout history. And more specifically, it will use US and AlQaeda as a case study of how the US used them for their reasons and what happened when they weren’t able to control them.

Covid-19 Religion, Theology and Philosophy Research Topics

Religious communities and coronavirus pandemic.

Research Aim: This study will focus on reviewing the contribution of religious communities to combat the Coronavirus Pandemic.

Indian religious politics during the Coronavirus pandemic

Research Aim: This study will investigate the issues and conflicts that arose in India during the outbreak of COVID-19 and the response of the international countries on it.

Theology and Coronavirus crisis

Research Aim: This study will focus on theological studies on the Coronavirus pandemic.

Philosophy, science, and religion during Coronavirus

Research Aim: This study will address the importance of philosophy, science, and religion in combatting Coronavirus.

World Religions Dissertation Topics

Under the category of world religion, the teaching courses cover a range of topics, including the traditional aspects and forms of religion found globally, including the mainstream practising religions such as Buddhism or Catholicism, fastest-growing religion like Islam, and belief systems such as the traditions of the Samurai tribe.

Given the highly diverse nature of faith, it is pertinent to explore and analyse this diversity in terms of the continuous evolution of the human race. The list of topics below provides a focused thematic and exploratory approach that may be used for world religion research dissertation purposes.

Topic 1: Increasing Islamophobia in the Western Countries, Its Causes and Possible Remedies

Research Aim: The hatred, intolerance, prejudice, or hostility towards the religion of Islamic and its followers are termed Islamophobia. In the last few years, the increasing trend of Islamophobia has been witnessed in the Western Countries, which at some instances lead to the act of violence and killing of Muslims, for example, the New Zealand mosque shooting in 2019 where 51 Muslims were shot dead by an Islamophobic was extreme evidence of the existence of Islamophobia. Therefore, in today’s time, when millions of Muslims live in Western Countries, it is essential to identify the causes of increasing Islamophobia and how it can be controlled.

Topic 2: Prevention of blasphemy and its Role in Global Peace

Research Aim: When someone speaks or writes profanely about a sacred or religious personality, place, or object, it amounts to blasphemy. The seculars and proponents of freedom of speech and expression do not hesitate to malign, mock and insult religion and the holy personages. However, blasphemy can enrage thousands and millions of believers worldwide as they cannot tolerate any disrespect towards their religion or holy personages, and they can become violent. In this study, the global blasphemy laws and how much they prevent blasphemy are explored, and their role in developing global peace is explored based on a survey-based study.

Topic 3: Religious Violence and its Association with Religious Intolerance

Research Aim: When religion is a subject or an object of violence, it is categorized as religious violence. In situations where people show no or lack of religious intolerance towards another religion and its followers, they tend to disapprove, criticize, and even use violence to show their dominance. Given this, it is argued that people have intolerance towards another religion, then their intolerance, if it remains unchecks, can even lead to violence. Therefore, this research aims to evaluate religious intolerance’s causal relationship with religious violence to identify if religious intolerance can trigger religious violence.

Topic 4: The notion of Atheism in the modern world. A critical analysis

Research Aim: Atheism is a belief in the non-existence of any God. In the contemporary world, scientific advancements and modern technology have made significant breakthroughs that have unravelled many unexplained phenomena and have consequently changed people’s lives and beliefs. As people’s reliance on science and technology has increased, anything that cannot be proven logically or through scientific evidence is rejected, even if it is God’s existence. In this research past, literature will be critically analyzed to identify what atheism means in today’s modern world and how it has altered people’s beliefs.

Topic 5: An analysis of belief and culture of African Christians in Diaspora.

Research Aim: During recent history, many African Christians have migrated to Western or Developed Countries to save their lives or attain better life prospects and living standards. After living in other Countries, African Christians came into contact with new cultures, traditions, religions, languages, and beliefs, altering their ideas and culture. In this regard, this survey-based study aims to identify whether African Christians have preserved their beliefs and culture while living in Diaspora.

Topic 6: The evolution of religious beliefs in India posts 20th century: A critical analysis.

Research Aim: In this research, the molecular structure of various tumors is discussed along with the therapeutic issues faced for these ailments and their treatments. Target spots for treatment and different chemical mixes for its treatments are also explained in this research.

Topic 7: The inherent belief of all religions lies in following the teachings prescribed by a higher authority. Discuss.

Research Aim: All religions have some guidelines recorded in holy books and religious scriptures that their believers have to follow. Whether obeying a higher authority’s commands is a common notion in all religions is critically discussed by conducting a thematic analysis of past literature.

Topic 8: Religious diversity and terrorism: An empirical analysis.

Research Aim: There are hundreds of religions practised globally that are significantly diversified in terms of beliefs, characteristics, traditions, festivals, and customs. In the past three decades, the increased occurrence of religious-based terrorism worldwide gives rise to a need to explore any causal link present between religious diversity and terrorism.

Topic 9: A Comparative study between Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity

Research Aim: The similarities and differences between Hinduism, Islam and Christianity are compared by conducting a thematic analysis. These religions’ religious scriptures will be discussed and compared to identify the shared characteristics present amongst them.

Topic 10: Why Islam is the Fastest Growing Religion in the World?

Research Aim: Islam has been linked with global terrorism in the media, yet still, it is number one in the list of fastest-growing religions of the world. In this regard, an in-depth exploratory study is to be conducted to identify the underlying reasons. A growing number of people are accepting the religion of Islam.

History and Religion Dissertation Topics

History and religion have been a topic of interest throughout previous decades and gained particular importance amongst researchers focusing on the impact and influence of religion on culture throughout history.

Based on a literature review of the religious references, the researchers have drawn a connection between literature and culture. History and religion are not confined to the evolution or impact of a particular religion. Still, it goes beyond the diversity of religion and focuses on developing the human race throughout time. Below is a list of suggested topics that can be used for history and religion research dissertations.

Topic 11: The comparative study between ancient Judaism and Hinduism

Research Aim: The similarities present between ancient Judaism and Hinduism are critically reviewed. For instance, both religions have a distinct class system that divides people into superior and lower classes. In Judaism, people are divided into Jews and non-Jews, referred to as gentiles, and as per Judaism, gentiles are animals in human form. Similarly, Hinduism divides people into four classes; Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras, where Shudras are given animal status.

Topic 12: How the Renaissance altered Christian religion and beliefs during the 15th and 16th Century Europe

Research Aim: Renaissance was a revolt against the supremacy of Christian theology, pope, the prohibition of learning science and logic, and interference of Church in the personal life of individuals during middle ages starting from 500 to 1400 Century. The renaissance proposed a new idea of humanism where religion must not intervene in an individual’s worldly and religious affairs, and people are free to have their own religion and beliefs. This study will critically analyse how the renaissance impacted the Christian religion and beliefs of European people during the 15th and 16th centuries.

Topic 13: Was Christ really crucified? A critical analysis of the contradictory evidence found in Christian and Islam

Research Aim: As per Christian belief, Jesus Christ was crucified, and he gave his life on the cross so that all Christians can be forgiven for their sins and go to paradise. However, as per Islamic belief, Christ was never crucified. Instead, God ascended Jesus Christ and made the betrayed companion look like Jesus Christ, and the Romans crucified him thinking that he was Jesus Christ.

Topic 14: Illicit affairs between Monks and Nuns in Christian Monasticism, a myth or a reality?

Research Aim: The mass grave of newly born babies found beneath the Catholic Church in Ireland provides evidence to support the myths about secret sex lives of monks and nuns throughout the history of Christian Monasticism. Based on the thematic analysis of the historical evidence found in literature and media, the immorality and hypocrisy of Catholic Monasticism will be critically reviewed.

Topic 15: Historical account of the destruction of Jerusalem and Jewish exile by King Nebuchadnezzar

Research Aim: The King of ancient Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar, had destroyed Jerusalem along with the temple of Solomon and exiled all Jews from Jerusalem in 586 BC. Many Jews were taken to Babylon as slaves, while many were dispersed and wandered in the desert for many years. Thematic analysis will be conducted in this study. The historical evidence found in the past literature will be critically reviewed to understand the Jewish Diaspora and their hardships.

Topic 16: Islam: The religious foundations and evolution through the 7th century into the modern world.

Research Aim: The religion of Islam, which came in the 7th Century in Arab, has spread to every part of the world today. Today more than 350 million Muslims exist and follow the religion of Islam, which was introduced around 1400 years ago. Although they have been divided into different groups and sects, they still share some common fundamental beliefs. Therefore, an exploratory study will be conducted to identify how Islam has evolved and how its religious foundations are compatible with the modern world.

Topic 17: The life of Adolf Hitler: impact of religious doctrine and belief.

Research Aim: Adolf Hitler was born and raised in a Roman Catholic family. As per his public speeches, he considered Jews to be the true enemy of Christianity, and by fighting against them, he was actually doing God’s work. Therefore, a thematic analysis is to be conducted on the life of Adolf Hitler to ascertain whether his religious doctrine and belief impacted his life.

How Can ResearchProspect Help?

ResearchProspect writers can send several custom topic ideas to your email address. Once you have chosen a topic that suits your needs and interests, you can order for our dissertation outline service , which will include a brief introduction to the topic, research questions , literature review , methodology , expected results , and conclusion . The dissertation outline will enable you to review the quality of our work before placing the order for our full dissertation writing service !

Religion and the Contemporary World Dissertation Topics

This theme focuses on topics that analyse the effect of religion within the contemporary world, including the media’s influence and the application of religious beliefs to the modern-day world.

This is an interesting topic for those aiming to look at theology and religion together since the implications of religion to the contemporary world has become the focus of discussion and dichotomy. Below is a list of topics that can be used for Religion and the Contemporary World Research Dissertation purposes.

Topic 18: Islam subjugate or uplift women: A critical analysis

Research Aim: Islam is criticized for women subjugation and inequality. Still, women in Western countries willingly accept Islam and follow Islamic practices such as wearing Hijab and covering their heads and faces. If Islam actually subjugates women, then why are independent and educated women in Western countries like France and the UK becoming Muslim. To unrevealed this mystery, an exploratory study is to be conducted where the women who accepted Islam will be interviewed to find out whether Islam subjugated them or uplift their status.

Topic 19: Religion is redundant in today's contemporary world.

Research Aim: Religion tends to hinder scientific developments because religion does not permit anything in line with religious law and guidelines. Today’s contemporary world can no longer follow any such restrictions, which can become a hurdle in scientific advancements and medical breakthroughs. Besides, nowadays, people use scientific evidence and logic to justify something rather than blindly relying on religious explanations. In view of this, a survey-based study is to be performed to determine whether religion has become unnecessary in today’s modern world.

Topic 20: Religions and faith communities can be a source of social stability and progress in today’s contemporary world.

Research Aim: In today’s socially and economically unstable and uncertain environment, association with religions and faith communities can enable individuals to have social stability and progress. People tend to look after each other in faith communities. For instance, black Church organisations in London provide work, education and training to black Christians. A thematic analysis will be performed in this research to evaluate whether people can gain social security, better work and prospects by being associated with religious communities.

Topic 21: Various religions, including Christianity and Islam, do not recognize the relationship between same-sex genders. Discuss in light of recent legalization and the global evolution for equality of all people.

Research Aim: The recent laws and legalization made to give rights and equality to the LGBL community are legally permitting people of the same sexual orientations to marry or live in relationships as partners. However, various religions like Christianity and Islam does not permit any such relationships and legalizing the same-sex marriage and relationship would create more differences in the society. This study will focus on identifying the in-depth view of Christians and Muslims on same-sex marriages and their likely impact on their rights, belief and practices.

Topic 22: Equality of women is a blessing or a curse?

Research Aim: Women in western countries like America and the UK are given equal rights and responsibilities. In eastern countries like Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, women have lower rights and responsibilities than men. It is argued that when women have equitable rights, they get higher or lower rights than men based on situations. For instance, a woman as a mother has more rights than a man as a father. In view of this, equitable rights give women more privileges as they don’t have to bear the hardships and exploitation. An exploratory study will be conducted in Pakistan to ascertain whether women feel more blessed or cursed by having equality.

Topic 23: The miracle of splitting of the Moon in the light of scientific evidence.

Research Aim: According to the Islamic belief when people of Mecca in Arab asked the Prophet Muhammad to show a miracle if he is actually a messenger of God, then Prophet Muhammad split the moon in two halves with the movement of this index finger and then rejoined them together. In 1969 the photograph of moon taken by NASA spaceship clearly showed the splitting mark on the surface of moon. Modern astronomers also provide scientific evidence to support the splitting of moon. In this research the scientific evidence to support or oppose the splitting of moon will be critically analysed to determine whether moon was splitting actually splitted.

Topic 24: Why religions and faith are gaining popularity in today’s time.

Research Aim: In today’s time when economic and social problems are on rise, it is worth identifying the reasons because of which more and more people are evidently moving towards religions and faith. Therefore a thematic analysis is to be conducted to explore the reasons why people around the world are becoming more religious by demonstrating and practicing their faith.

Topic 25: Eastern religions, especially Islam have suffered greatly post 9/11 in terms of media representation and fair trial. Discuss.

Research Aim: Since the 9/11 terrorist attack, Eastern religions like Sikhism, Hinduism and especially Islam has been suffered greatly as the followers of these religions were perceived terrorists/extremists and were being victimized. The negative portrayal by media created negative image which may have negatively impacted the fair trial of Muslims and followers of other Eastern religions. Therefore an exploratory study is to be conduct to identify the problem which Muslims, Sikhs, and Hindus faced in America after 9/11.

Ethics and Religion Dissertation Topics

The notion of ethics in religion encompasses morality and various morality components to apply to modern life and daily situations. Morality and religion have gone hand in hand throughout history, and it has been observed that multiple moral conducts are justified with the notion of religious beliefs.

For researchers who wish to get a deeper understanding of this relationship, below is a list of topics that can be used for dissertation purposes.

Topic 26: Religious beliefs and morality are deeply entrenched within each other. Critically discuss.

Research Aim: The concept of morality is found in every religion. The concept of right and wrong given by religious beliefs and morality are alike. For instance, telling a lie is bad, while speaking the truth is good for both religions and moral values. In this study, the similarities between religious convictions and moral ethics are reviewed to determine whether religious convictions and moral ethics are intertwined.

Topic 27: Military Action: Ethical justification through religion.

Research Aim: When military action is to be taken against a militant group or terrorists, it would be ethically right to do so in self-defence and protect innocent human lives. Because of this, different religions’ ethical justification to justify military action will be critically reviewed in this study.

Topic 28: Ethical egoism and its relation with moral code.

Research Aim: Ethical egoism is a notion which states that people tend to behave morally only if the moral act would maximize their self-interest. However, a moral code is a set of rules that people follow to live a good life, determining their morals and actions. In this study, the relationship between ethical egoism and moral code will be empirically analyzed.

Topic 29: There is no moral code to justify Islamic Terrorism

Research Aim: Islam is a religion that prohibits killing innocent people, and killing of an innocent soul is regarded as killing the whole of humanity. In this study, the Islamic teachings and moral code will be critically analyzed to identify whether the Islamic moral code justifies the Terrorism done by Islam’s followers.

Topic 30: How is morality entrenched within the teachings of Islam?

Research Aim: Morality means the sense of right and wrong or good or bad behaviour. It is claimed that Islam is a religion that is based on goodness, righteousness and teaches to do good in society and be good with everyone. The Islamic teachings will be critically reviewed in this study to determine how it is entrenched with morality.

Topic 31: Human rights and the ethical dichotomy of religious beliefs.

Research Aim: Human rights are based on all human beings’ equality. However, religious beliefs tend to show ethical dichotomy because it divides people’s rights based on believers and non-believers or piety, where the believers or pious people like religious leaders tend to have more rights than the non-believers or followers. This study is important to identify how religious ethics contradiction with human rights.

Topic 32: Situational ethics through religion. Discuss critically the impact of situational ethics in a multi ethnic community.

Research Aim: When an act in a particular context or situation is judged following a religion’s ethical standards, instead of by the usual morality standards, it is referred to as situational ethics through faith. It can be argued, and if everyone starts justifying their unethical acts with situational ethics in a multi-ethnic community, they will be going against usual standards of morality. This research aims to identify the impact of situational ethics through religion on a multi-ethnic community and how it can create chaos and injustice in society.

Religion and Philosophy Dissertation Topics

Religion and philosophy have been going hand in hand throughout history. Philosophy has been used to justify and question God’s supreme power and the fundamentals of religious faith.

The basic premise of philosophy and its application to religion is based on trying to ascertain the existence of religion as a possibility. You can find a topic that interests you from the list of religion and philosophy dissertation topics below.

Topic 33: Relationship between existence of life and existence of God. Critically discuss with examples.

Research Aim: When a small object like a clock can never be made on its own unless someone creates it, then how it is possible that such a big and complex world and life can be created on its own without a creator. Because of this notion, in this research, God’s existence is critically analyzed based on its relationship with the existence of life.

Topic 34: If there is a God, who was he created by? An in-depth analysis based on fundamental religious beliefs

Research Aim: Based on the argument that nothing can be created on its own and there must be a creator for everything, this idea gives rise to a question that if God exists, then who created God. This question will be critically analyzed by reviewing the fundamental religious beliefs found in the religious literature of various religions.

Topic 35: Christianity is actually Paulism: A Critical Review

Research Aim: It is argued that today’s Christianity is not what Jesus Christ taught, but it is the beliefs and doctrines developed based on what Saint Paul wrote and taught about Christ and Christianity. Saint Paul wrote the thirteen books of the New Testament, and scholars believe that Paul’s teachings greatly deviated from the actual teachings of Jesus Christ. In this study, Paul and the contribution of Saint Paul in developing today’s Christianity will be critically reviewed to evaluate the argument.

Topic 36: Life after death and accountability is a necessity to remedy the injustice done in the world.

Research Aim: In this world, many of the times, the wrongdoers get away from punishment and justice is not provided to the innocent victims. Therefore it is essential that in the hereafter, people can be answerable for their good or bad deeds where they cannot get away after doing injustice, and the victims can be compensated. In this research, the justification for life after death is reviewed in line with the world’s injustice.

Topic 37: God is known to be an all loving, all-encompassing being. How can the evil in the world be justified in the face of an omnipotent God?

Research Aim: It is argued that when God is all-loving, and he is present everywhere, how so much evil, violence, and injustice may be possible in his presence, so much evil violence and injustice is possible taking place in the world. Given this statement, this research aims to justify the existence of evil in the world.

Topic 38: If God cannot be seen then it does not prove that he does not exist.

Research Aim: few things in the world cannot be seen or measured, but they exist, such as pain or magic. Based on this notion, it can be argued that it is not sufficient to deny God’s existence if we cannot see him. This research focuses on determining why it is not enough to disprove God’s presence only because he cannot be seen.

Topic 39: God is only a figments of a believer’s imagination. Discuss.

Research Aim: In different religions, God’s idea and characteristics are different. Some worship idols, some worship animals and supernatural beings, while others worship non-living objects like the moon, stars, sun, trees, and fire. Therefore in this research, God as an invention by the imagination of believers will be critically discussed.

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Architecture and Religion: Built Heritage Dissertation Topics

Architecture has played an essential role within the religious communities since it provides a tangible component of the community’s belief in substantiating their religious faith.

To understand the true essence of an architectural building within the religious faith, it is essential to look beyond the buildings’ structural aesthetics and understand the deeper engraved intangible value of religious faith that drives the community. Below is a list of topics that might be interesting for architecture and religion-based dissertation.

Topic 40: Architectural buildings such as churches and mosques have great religious significance. Discuss.

Research Aim: Religious architectural buildings like the synagogue, cathedral, church, shrine, temple, and mosques carry unique religious importance because it symbolizes religious history, culture, give exalted appeal and have a great influence on the religious community. In this research, architectural buildings’ religious importance, namely, synagogue, cathedral, church, shrine, temple, and mosques, will be discussed to identify their religious followers’ respective significance.

Topic 41: What are the components of a Church?

Research Aim: A church is a structure used by Christians to carry out their religious activities and worship. Traditionally, its interior is built in the Christian cross’s shape, and its components included; center aisle, alter, bema, and seats. However, the church building may also have a courtyard, apse, and mausoleum. The modern church buildings may have different structures and components. Therefore in this study, the traditional and modern church buildings are compared and contrasted to identify the mandatory components of a Christian Church.

Topic 42: Without religious buildings to substantiate faith, followers would lose their religion. Discuss.

Research Aim: Religious buildings like churches, temples, and mosques are the holy places where religious followers can worship, practise their faiths, and socialize with their fellow believers to substantiate their beliefs. This research aims to discuss whether, in the absence of religious buildings where followers can affirm their faiths, there are chances that they would lose their religion.

Topic 43: How far would you agree with the belief that divine presence can only be felt within religious architectural spaces?

Research Aim: The religious buildings are believed to have a divine presence, and people tend to go to such places so that they can feel that divine presence. Given this, it can be argued that a true believer may not necessarily need to visit a religious building to feel the divine presence. Therefore an exploratory study will be conducted to determine whether it is necessary to visit religious architectural spaces to feel the divine presence.

Topic 44: Demolishing a building that is fundamental to a religious belief is tantamount to disgracing the divine God. Discuss.

Research Aim: Destroying a religious building with significant importance to a religious belief would be equal to disrespecting the divine God and religion. The believers of that religion would not tolerate if their religious building is demolished, and they can react violently and create havoc. Therefore, in this study, what a religious building’s demolition would mean for their religious followers will be evaluated by conducting an in-depth analysis.

Topic 45: What is the purpose of religious architectural buildings? Discuss with a comparative analysis of different religious faiths.

Research Aim: All religious architectural buildings serve one common purpose: to provide a place for the religious followers to worship, congregate, and practice religious activities. However, different religious architectural buildings may also serve different or additional purposes. This study aims to conduct a comparative study between different religions to determine whether all religious architectural buildings serve the same purpose.

Topic 46: An expensive religious building does not encompass the basic human right of equality amongst all mankind. Discuss.

Research Aim: In today’s world where millions of people live below the poverty line, constructing an expensive religious building seems to contradict the notion of equality amongst all humankind and basic human rights. However, it can be argued that the poor people who do not have access to luxuries can avail comfort by visiting the expensive religious building. Therefore it is necessary to determine whether expensive religious buildings give all humankind equality and are in line with human rights. Get Free Custom Dissertation Topic .

Politics and Religion: Dissertation Topics

The study of religion and politics aims to draw an interconnecting relationship between the two subject areas and analyze their impact upon each other’s application. Below is a list of topics that may help aim to research the relationship between Politics and Religion .

Topic 47: There needs to be clear distinction between political views and religious beliefs. Discuss.

Research Aim: As per secularist ideology, politics and religion are two different aspects and therefore should be clearly separated. However, religious doctrines tend to suggest that politics and religious beliefs go hand in hand. Given this argument, the present study adopts exploratory research to determine whether there must be a clear distinction between political views and religious beliefs.

Topic 48: Politics is used as a mask to cover up religious fanaticism. Critically analyse.

Research Aim: Politics include various activities which are used to govern a country. In a country where the governance is controlled or influenced by religious leaders or religious parties, religious fanaticism may be accepted and cultivated under political authority. In this research, the relationship between politics and religious fanaticism is critically analyzed to identify whether politics is used as a cover to foster religious fanaticism.

Topic 49: The fading association between religion and politics in a secular state.

Research Aim: secularism is a belief which segregates politics and state from religious affairs. Based on this notion, it can be argued that people tend to disassociate religion from worldly affairs in a secular state. Therefore the affiliation between religion and politics has been diminishing. In this study, the relationship between religion and politics is to be determined in a secular state to evaluate the extent to which religion is disassociated from politics.

Topic 50: Should religious leaders be equipped with some form of political or legal authority

Research Aim: Religious leaders have a great degree of power and influence over their religious communities, and their followers tend to obey their orders without questioning them. This shows that religious leaders can even use their position and religious authority to direct their followers wherever they want. Therefore this study focuses to critically analyze whether it would be correct to give religious leaders any political or legal authority.

Topic 51: The only reasons politicians bow to religious authority is to gain popularity. Critically analyse.

Research Aim: In countries where religious leaders have great influence and control over many people, the politicians sometimes join hands with religious leaders to win elections by gaining support from their religious followers. However, the politicians’ collation with the religious leaders may not necessarily mean that they bow down to the religious leaders. Still, it is a diplomatic step to gain their own political authority.

Topic 52: How has the religion Islam succumbed under political pressures? Critically analyse.

Research Aim: In the post 9/11 world, the religion Islam came under immense political pressure. The political activism by Islamic organizations and religious parties has been restricted to moderate the religion of Islam. In this research, a critical analysis is to be conducted to determine whether religion Islam surrendered under political pressures.

Topic 53: The role of Hindu extremists and politicians in Indian society.

Research Aim: In India, the Hindu extremist party RSS played a significant role in rising Hindu Nationalism in Indian politics. Since its independence, India has been identified as a secular state. Still, under the Hindu Nationalist party’s new rule, the Indian political landscape has been altered, and Hinduism dominance is forcefully implemented in Indian society. Given this, the present study aims to evaluate what impact the Hindu extremists and Hindu Nationalist politicians would have on Indian culture in terms of violence and injustice towards low-caste people and Muslims living in India.

Important Notes:

As a student of religion, philosophy and theology looking to get good grades, it is essential to develop new ideas and experiment on existing religion, philosophy and theology theories – i.e., to add value and interest in your research topic.

The field of religion, philosophy and theology is vast and interrelated to many other academic disciplines like civil engineering , construction , law , and even healthcare . That is why it is imperative to create a religion, philosophy and theology dissertation topic that is articular, sound, and actually solves a practical problem that may be rampant in the field.

We can’t stress how important it is to develop a logical research topic; it is based on your entire research. There are several significant downfalls to getting your topic wrong; your supervisor may not be interested in working on it, the topic has no academic credit-ability, the research may not make logical sense, there is a possibility that the study is not viable.

This impacts your time and efforts in writing your dissertation as you may end up in the cycle of rejection at the initial stage of the dissertation. That is why we recommend reviewing existing research to develop a topic, taking advice from your supervisor, and even asking for help in this particular stage of your dissertation.

Keeping our advice in mind while developing a research topic will allow you to pick one of the best religion, philosophy, and theology dissertation topics that fulfill your requirement of writing a research paper and adds to the body of knowledge.

Therefore, it is recommended that when finalizing your dissertation topic, you read recently published literature to identify gaps in the research that you may help fill.

Remember- dissertation topics need to be unique, solve an identified problem, be logical, and be practically implemented. Please look at some of our sample religion, philosophy and theology dissertation topics to get an idea for your own dissertation.

How to Structure your Dissertation

A well-structured dissertation can help students to achieve a high overall academic grade.

A Title Page
Acknowledgements
Declaration
Abstract: A summary of the research completed
Table of Contents
Introduction : This chapter includes project rationale, research background, key research aims and objectives, and the research problems. An outline of the structure of a dissertation can also be added to this chapter.
Literature Review : This chapter presents relevant theories and frameworks by analyzing published and unpublished literature on the chosen research topic to address research questions . The purpose is to highlight and discuss the selected research area’s relative weaknesses and strengths while identifying any research gaps. Break down the topic and key terms that can positively impact your dissertation and your tutor.
Methodology: The data collection and analysis methods and techniques employed by the researcher are presented in the Methodology chapter, which usually includes research design, research philosophy, research limitations, code of conduct, ethical consideration, data collection methods and data analysis strategy .
Findings and Analysis: Findings of the research are analyzed in detail under the Findings and Analysis chapter. All key findings/results are outlined in this chapter without interpreting the data or drawing any conclusions. It can be useful to include graphs , charts and tables in this chapter to identify meaningful trends and relationships.
Discussion and Conclusion: The researcher presents his interpretation of the results in this chapter and states whether the research hypothesis has been verified or not. An essential aspect of this section is establishing the link between the results and evidence from the literature. Recommendations with regards to the implications of the findings and directions for the future may also be provided. Finally, a summary of the overall research, along with final judgments, opinions, and comments, must be included in the form of suggestions for improvement.
References: Make sure to complete this following your University’s requirements
Bibliography
Appendices: Any additional information, diagrams, and graphs used to complete the dissertation but not part of the dissertation should be included in the Appendices chapter. Essentially, the purpose is to expand the information/data.

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Humble Approach Initiative

The Religion, Science, and Society funding area will support research on culture, religious traditions, and spirituality to advance our collective understanding of the ways in which religious and spiritual beliefs and practices affect human flourishing and to apply those insights to society in meaningful and practical ways.

The Religion, Science, and Society funding area supports the discovery of meaningful and practical insights into the religious, spiritual, and cultural dimensions of humanity.

The grantmaking approach of this funding area is to support work that engages substantively and critically with the sciences on themes relevant to understanding how humans navigate spiritual and scientific questions within our diverse social and cultural environments. Our approach prioritizes interdisciplinary collaborations, including philosophical or theological engagement with the findings and methods of the sciences. Supported work should draw from a range of intellectual, religious, and spiritual traditions and demonstrate exceptional promise to transform human knowledge or have high potential to meet critical methodological or conceptual challenges. Broadly speaking, we are interested in asking questions such as:

What can we learn from the world’s wisdom traditions about living good and purposeful lives?
How are religious beliefs, practices, and communities changing and being changed by the world today?
What does it mean to be spiritual and how does this impact our beliefs, values, and customs?
How do we lead lives of meaning and purpose within the context of cultural and technological change?
What roles do religion and spirituality have on the health of our communities?

In the 2024-2025 funding cycle, we would like to receive project ideas on the following topics:

Meaning-making in the Modern World :

The goal of this topical area is to advance our understanding of how people develop meaningful lives and pursue spiritual flourishing in a rapidly changing world. We are particularly (but not exclusively) interested in interdisciplinary projects that align with the aims of the Spiritual Yearning Research Initiative (SYRI), which addresses the spiritual yearnings, existential concerns, and search for meaning of spiritually curious people who may not be traditionally religious. Examples of potential projects include those that aim to:

Examine how philosophical and theological research on specific moral frameworks or existential commitments might support individual and communal meaning-making and/or spiritual flourishing outside of traditionally religious contexts.
Facilitate empirical and normative research examining various dimensions of the “salience problem”: How does one move from intellectual acceptance of a moral or existential commitment, philosophical view, or even religious belief, to experiencing the same as a lived reality that enhances one’s sense of meaning or spiritual flourishing?
Achieve better understanding of which “spiritual technologies,” communities, philosophical views, and theological resources best address the spiritual yearnings of those in specific situations or contexts (e.g., non-Western cultures, particular religious backgrounds, specific developmental or psychological needs or features).

To apply for funding in this topic, please submit an Online Funding Inquiry in the Templeton Portal to Religion, Science, and Society – Spiritual Yearning Research Initiative.

Health, Religion, and Spirituality :

Our primary interest in this funding topic is to increase our understanding about the role of religion, spirituality, or faith in living a healthy life. We would consider, but not limit ourselves, to projects that aim to:

Support the continued integration of religion, spirituality, or faith within the practice of healthcare (including mental health and social services).
Facilitate community-based research designs that expand our understanding of religion and spirituality as a social determinant of health.
Examine the impact of faith-based organizations on the health of communities.

To apply for funding in this topic, please submit an Online Funding Inquiry in the Templeton Portal to Religion, Science, and Society – Health, Religion, and Spirituality.

Understanding Religious and Cultural Change:

The goal of this topical focus is to advance our understanding about how religion, spirituality, and culture are evolving across the world and transforming the human experience. We value research that explores religious and cultural change from interdisciplinary perspectives and at multiple scales, ranging from individual religious expressions to global religious patterns. Examples of potential projects that might be of interest include those that attempt to:

Better understand how religious and spiritual beliefs and practices are transmitted between individuals and across generations.
Build from economic principles of competition and innovation to examine why some religious and spiritual beliefs and practices are thriving, whereas others are declining.
Foster awareness around how changing religious demographics and identities influence public affairs and civic culture across the globe.

To apply for funding in this topic, please submit an Online Funding Inquiry in the Templeton Portal to Religion, Science, and Society – Dynamics of Religious Change.

In this year’s funding cycle, we are also interested in supporting projects that aim to make meaningful contributions to the foundations of human understanding and the creation of knowledge and practice. This may include:

Science and religion projects that examine philosophical, scientific, and theological themes across different eras or disciplines (e.g., “braided narratives”).
Research that explores conceptual and cultural contributions at the intersection of traditional and new ways of learning.
Cultural evolutionary approaches to understanding the patterns and processes underlying collective knowledge/intelligence.

To apply for funding in this topic, please submit an Online Funding Inquiry in the Templeton Portal to Religion, Science, and Society – Other.

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Hartford International University for Religion and Peace is home to world-renowned faculty and student scholars of religion who use various research methods to explore faith and religious communities with an emphasis on integrating sociological, cultural, and diverse religious perspectives to understand our changing religious landscape.

Featured Research Projects

Our religion research projects examine how religious communities and ideas in the United States and across the world adapt to an ever-evolving social and cultural reality.

Faith Communities Today

A series of ongoing research surveys and practical reports about congregational life in the U.S. conducted and published by the Cooperative Congregational Studies Partnership, a multireligious research initiative of 25+ different faith groups working in partnership with Hartford Institute for Religion Research.

Exploring the Pandemic Impact on Congregations

An expansive five-year research project investigating possible changes and long-term implications of the Covid-19 pandemic on religious life in America funded by a $5.3 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. and led by the Hartford Institute for Religion Research.

Serving in Diverse Faith Communities

The Louisville Institute has awarded a $44,150 grant for a Collaborative Inquiry Team project called “The Presence of Latinx Pastors in Non-Latinx Mainline Protestant Churches: Impact and Learning” to explore the impact of Latinx pastors on majority white or multicultural mainline Protestant churches in the Northeast region of the U.S.

Aiding Veteran Recovery

Rev. Dr. Chris Antal, D.Min. ’17 is working to reduce distress and improve functioning in those with histories of morally injurious experiences from military service. His research included a ceremony where participants were able to share their stories.

Meeting a Global Need

Dr. Vinding Niels Valdemar’s research and compares Muslim chaplaincy around Europe and the United States, while exploring Islamic leadership programs in hopes to bring new influence and training to the growing demand for Muslim chaplaincy in Europe.

A Growing Muslim Population

A study conducted with the Faith Communities Today project reveals that the U.S. has seen a 31 percent increase in mosques between 2010 and 2020, reflecting a growing and evolving American Muslim population. The study also found mosques are increasing in suburbia and declining in downtown areas of major cities.

A Leader in Religion Research

Since 1981, the Hartford Institute for Religion Research has had a solid reputation of rigorous, applied research that anticipates and explores emerging issues within religious congregations and national bodies. The research institute has garnered over $15 million in grant funding and produced countless books, articles, and research reports along with a website visited by millions. This record has earned the institute an international reputation as an important bridge between the scholarly community and the practice of faith.

A Pioneer for Muslim-Christian Relations

The Macdonald Center for the Study of Islam and Christian-Muslim Relations is the country’s oldest center for such study, opening in 1973. The Macdonald Center challenges scholars, students, the media, and the general public to move beyond stereotypes and develop an accurate awareness and appreciation of Islamic religion, law and culture.

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Academic Dean & Professor of Islamic Studies and Christian-Muslim Relations

The Rev. Dr. David D. Grafton has been an educator in Muslim-Christian relations since 1985 and has years of practical experience in the contemporary interfaith and multifaith world as an ordained Protestant pastor and through living and teaching in Egypt.

Faculty Associate in Migration Studies and Congregational Life, Director of The Pastoral Innovation Network of New England

Dr. Allison Norton is the Faculty Associate in Migration Studies and Congregational Life at Hartford International University, where she directs the Pastoral Innovation Network of New England.

Professor of Sociology of Religion

Dr. Scott Thumma is Professor of Sociology of Religion and director of the Hartford Institute for Religion Research at Hartford International University. He has published numerous research reports, website documents, articles, and chapters on religious life in addition to co-authoring three books, The Other 80 Percent , Beyond Megachurch Myths and Gay Religion .

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Center for the Study of Religion and Society

Research Projects

Here at the Center we have a wide variety of current research investigating the sociology of religion. Below, we discuss our current projects. There is also an archive of past projects .

The Chicago Congregations Project

How do neighborhoods where religious congregations are located influence them and how do congregations change their communities? The Chicago Congregations Project (CCP) uses innovative data collection methods so that researchers can address these questions and better understand the role of congregations in urban life.

Using Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies, the CCP is virtually and physically canvassing Chicago’s 77 Community Areas (CCAs) to generate the universe of religious congregations within the city. Based on information from Google Street View, walking and driving streets, and other methods, researchers are also verifying the active status of congregations. When the first phase is completed, the CCP will constitute an unprecedented list of congregations in communities across Chicago.

The Global Religion Research Initiative (GRRI)

The initiative, directed by Christian Smith, aims to advance the empirical study of global religion in mainstream academia by granting funds to promising researchers in the social sciences. The initiative offers six distinct research and writing grants and fellowship programs: (1) Book-Writing Leave Fellowships, (2) Project Launch Grants, (3) Dissertation Fellowships, (4) International Collaboration Grants, (5) Curriculum Development Grants, and (6) Postdoctoral Research Fellowships. The second round of proposal submission was held in fall 2017, and the GRRI received over 150 research proposals from scholars at 100 colleges and universities around the world. The submissions were reviewed by leading social science scholars and 48 of the proposals were awarded funding in the 2017 round. Nathanel Sumaktoyo, who recently earned his PhD from the ND Political Science Department, and Shanna Corner, who recently earned her PhD from the ND Sociology Department, were awarded Postdoctoral Research Fellowships. Several current GRRI award recipients have presented results from the research projects supported by GRRI funds at both US and international research conferences during the spring 2018 semester, and other conference presentations are planned for summer and fall 2018.

National Survey of Women’s March Solidarity Events

Kraig Beyerlein along with graduate students Aliyah Abu-Hazeem, Amity Pauley, and Peter Ryan, collected a nationally representative sample of U.S. Women’s March Solidarity Events (“Sister Marches”). In addition to the presence of religion at these events (religious-leader speakers and faith-based organizational sponsorships), information from organizers was collected about composition of organizing teams and volunteers, when the mobilizing started, collaboration with other organizers, duration of the event, and presence of counterdemonstrators. Currently, a paper from this project has a “revise and resubmit” at Mobilization.

Parental Cultures and Practices of Intergenerational Transmission of Religious Faith to Children

A research team led by Christian Smith conducted over 200 interviews in 2014 and 2015 with parents from across the United States to examine intergenerational transmission of religious and moral beliefs. Analyses of these data are complete and Christian Smith is partnering with Amy Adamczyk, of John Jay College in New York, to write a book about the trends among parents in their transmission of faith and a co-authored book with two graduate students. Christian is also partnering with Donna Freitas to write a popular press book.

U.S. Borderland Project

Kraig Beyerlein is near completion of this book manuscript (“Flooding the Desert: Faith-Based Mobilizing to Save Lives Along the Sonora-Arizona Border”) on the causes and consequences of congregations’ involvement in the humanitarian aid movement in Southern Arizona. Two Notre Dame graduate students have provided crucial support for this research. Finally, Kraig again collaborated with the Center for Social Concerns to teach their Border Issues Seminar, which included a week-long immersion trip to the México-United States Border in which 15 undergraduate students participated.

Religion and Women's March on Chicago

Kraig Beyerlein is collaborating with current graduate student, Peter Ryan on this project. To date, they have interviewed nearly 150 people from faith communities in Chicago connected to the first Women’s March on Chicago (January 21, 2017). This project is supported by a Society for the Scientific Study of Religion Jack Shand Research Award and an Institute for Scholarship in the Liberal Arts Small Research and Creative Work Grant. An article on it is forthcoming in Sociology of Religion. This summer, they plan to conduct follow-up interviews with a subset of participants from the original sample as well as some new interviews with faith communities that were not part of this sample but were involved in the second Women’s March on Chicago (January 20, 2018).

National Study of Protest Events (NSPE)

Kraig Beyerlein collected the first-ever, nationally-representative sample of protest events in the United States using the hypernetwork sampling method. The overview paper (co-authored with three Notre Dame graduate students) has been revised and resubmitted for a second time at Sociological Methods and Research . Two (2) graduate students and four (4) undergraduates helped with data cleaning and coding. Kraig and Peter Ryan also presented a paper on the role of religion in explaining variation among protesters at this year’s annual meeting of the Society for the Scientific Study of Religion (SSSR) in Atlanta. The NSPE is funded by the Science of Generosity grant from the John Templeton Foundation as well as an internal grant from the Kroc Institute.

From Zion to New York City: Refiguring Jewish-American Ethics and Identity through Solidarity with Palestinians

Atalia Omer is working on a book project that examines the phenomenon of Jewish Americans who are critics of Israel and Palestine solidarity activists. It argues that they constitute not only a social movement but also a refashioned Jewish-American community. The research examines this movement's participation in both inter-traditional work that seeks to provincialize Zion from Jewish identity, and inter-traditional and intersectional work that seeks to fight Islamophobia, racisms, and other social justice concerns. Omer studies specifically a new Chicago-based non-Zionist Jewish congregation that embodies a Jewish transformative agenda.

Project for the Study of Latino Religion

The Project seeks to advance the social scientific study of Latino religion. It specifically seeks to understand the role of religion in civic and political life, its impact on educational aspirations and achievement among youth, the training of religious leaders, and the social service role of Latino congregations.Directed by Dr. Edwin I. Hernandez, the Project was previously known as the Center for the Study of Latino Religion, which over the last decade conducted research on Latino religious leadership, theological training, education, congregations, and political engagement (see http://latinostudies.nd.edu/research-publications/publications/#religion for a list of publications). This work has been supported by generous grants from The Pew Charitable Trusts, Richard and Helen DeVos Foundation, Louisville Institute, Annie E. Casey, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.One of the major research efforts under way is dissemination of the findings from the Chicago Latino Congregations Study (CLCS), a multi-level comprehensive study of Latino congregations, clergy, lay leadership, and parishioners (adults and youth) (see http://latinostudies.nd.edu/assets/95266/original/clcsmethodology_paper_final1.pdf for a description of the methodology).The researchers initially compiled a comprehensive population list of the religious universe of metropolitan Chicago Latino congregations defined as having 50 percent Latino participants for Protestant churches and 30 percent or more for Catholic parishes. The study is based on a stratified sample of 84 congregations representing Catholic, Mainline Protestant, Evangelical, and Pentecostal traditions. In all, the CLCS includes congregational level and Latino religious leader data for 84 congregation as well as 2,368 adults from 74 of the congregations and 607 youth from 63 of the congregations.

Critical Realism and Human Personhood in Social Sciences Project

This collaborative project, led by Dr. Christian Smith, is exploring non-reductionistic accounts of the nature of the human person as they relate to the work of the social sciences. The project is gathering together interdisciplinary groups of scholars in sociology, psychology, political science, philosophy, theology, and law to discuss key questions toward developing new theoretical models of the nature of human personhood in ways that might improve theoretical and empirical work in the social sciences.

The “Multiple Modernities” Project

This collaborative project, led by Dr. Christian Smith, is exploring and developing through working groups, seminars, and focused research projects the theoretical idea of multiple modernities—particularly, though not exclusively, as it relates to religious and moral life—around the world. Multiple modernities provides a theoretical and analytical framework for understanding cultural and institutional social change at the global, national, and sub-cultural levels that represents an alternative to both traditional modernization and secularization theories as well as to the theory of post-modernism.

Last updated on August 1, 2018

Our research approach

Exploring the Pandemic Impact on Congregations is a multi-faceted and longitudinal research project designed to answer the following research questions:

How did congregations respond to the COVID-19 pandemic?
What are the long-term consequences of COVID-19 on congregational life in the United States?
What does congregational life look like post-pandemic?

These are not easy questions to answer! To give these questions their fair due, we will explore the topic with both breadth and depth from a variety of perspectives. We want to see how the pandemic affects congregational life not just in the current timeframe but speculate on what it will look like in the future. Thus, our research project is:

longitudinal (taking place over five years)
collaborative (done in partnership with other research organizations and religious communities)
multi-method (utilizing quantitative and qualitative data)

We hope that this rigorous research will provide religious leaders with solid answers and workable ideas for creating healthier and vibrant faith communities. Below we outline the core research components of the project in more depth.

Quantitative research

Our quantitative endeavors will “zoom out” in terms of a representative national picture of COVID-19’s effect on congregational life. Over the course of five years, we will administer several national key-informant surveys to a variety of audiences and for different purposes.

First, we will build off of the pioneering Faith Communities Today (FACT) project and data analysis of the FACT 2020 survey of over 15,000 congregations to reveal a baseline understanding of the congregational landscape prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Moving forward, we will work with our denominational partners to replicate this nationally representative survey of congregations in 2023 and again in 2025. These key informant surveys will include thousands of congregations, collected in partnership with our denominational and faith group partners.

Additionally, we will administer an extensive attender survey in 2024 through this branch of the project. In partnership with Faith Communities Today members, we will administer short topical surveys once or twice a year. These questionnaires will focus on particular topics of interest, such as religious education in the midst of the pandemic, and will be distributed by FACT denominational partners.

Another quantitative component of the project will be a longitudinal panel of 300 churches . This part of the project will select a sample of churches to follow over the course of five years to track how these individual congregations are innovating, faring, and adjusting to the post pandemic world. This sample will be selected and receive its first survey in 2022.

Additionally, we will administer a survey to the members of each of these congregations to get a “view from the pew” during 2024. Finally, we will also selectively interview and virtually observe these congregations.

Qualitative research

We know that surveys alone cannot tell us the whole story. Thus, our project also has a significant qualitative component. We have carefully selected eight regional sites across the United States, which represent variation in terms of geography, demography, COVID infection rates, and other factors.

Starting in 2022, researchers will launch in-depth explorations of twelve local congregations at each regional site—for a total of 96 ethnographic congregational case studies . Within these congregations, researchers will observe worship services and other activities, interview pastors and attenders, and review social media content to get as full a picture as possible of the life of each church and the impact of the pandemic on it—and beyond.

To get a sense of how things evolve over time, researchers will return to these congregations after two years (in 2024 and 2025) to selectively administer follow-up surveys, interviews, and observations.

Analysis of this material will be done by the team at Hartford Institute in consultation with our advisory teams and site coordinators. Findings and corresponding resources will be published on this website , our social media accounts, newsletter, etc. throughout the coming years. We will release full results in a spring 2026 conference and various books and journal articles.

We feel that this multifaceted approach will help capture and better understand the dynamic challenges facing congregations in a post-pandemic reality. Please connect with us if you are interested in following this research or being part of this effort!

Berkley Center

Religious Freedom Research Project

Leaders: Thomas Farr Timothy Shah

Active from 2017 to 2019, the Religious Freedom Research Project (RFRP) was the nation's only university-based research program devoted exclusively to the analysis of religious freedom, a basic human right restricted in many parts of the world. The RFRP brought together leading scholars and policymakers to examine and debate the evolution of international religious freedom policy and the contributions of religious liberty to the global common good. Thomas Farr served as RFRP director from 2017 to July 2018; other previous project scholars include Timothy Shah, who served as director for international research, and Andrew Bennett and Byron Johnson, who were senior research fellows. The project was made possible by a partnership with Baylor University's Institute for Studies of Religion and the generous support of the Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation and the William E. Simon Foundation.

The RFRP was one of two successor organizations to grow out of the Berkley Center's Religious Freedom Project (2011-2016). The other is the Religious Freedom Institute , an independent NGO.

John Carroll statue in front of Healy Hall

Project Leaders

Thomas Farr

Religious Freedom Institute

Timothy Shah

University of Dallas/Religious Freedom Institute

Religious Freedom Research Project Programming

Explore specialized research and programming areas of the Religious Freedom Research Project

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Doctoral Fellows Program

Under Caesar's Sword

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Religious Freedom Research Project Summer 2018 Fellowship Reports

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Religion Research Paper

This sample religion research paper features: 6700 words (approx. 22 pages), an outline, and a bibliography with 36 sources. Browse other research paper examples for more inspiration. If you need a thorough research paper written according to all the academic standards, you can always turn to our experienced writers for help. This is how your paper can get an A! Feel free to contact our writing service for professional assistance. We offer high-quality assignments for reasonable rates.

Introduction

Development of religion and belief, early explanations for religion and belief, eastern and western traditions, christianity, religious objects, symbols, and rituals, religion, manuscripts, and teachings, future directions.

Bibliography

Religion and belief are of great importance for anthropological research on the development of humankind and its history, as they represent the human reaction to an extrahuman, holy, transcendent, or divine object. Almost no other terms of the mental and intellectual human life seem to have such a big and colorful variety as “belief ” or “religion.”

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At first, a look into the past: The term religion has its etymologic and historical roots in the ancient Roman world. A different context can be found for the terms personal belief or universal faith; they have their semantic origin in the Greek word pístis, which Saint Paul used in his letters, or in the Latin fides. Whereas religion gives the framework, belief fills this framework with individual religious activities. Faith means the universal religious activity of a group of people of the same religion. The Latin noun religio stems from the verb re-legere, which has the meaning “to do something diligently, to do something again, to re-read something,” according to Marcus T. Cicero (106–43 BCE). The prefix re- could even be translated as “to do something diligently again and again.” The careful execution of rituals was prescribed by rules, which were only valid through their exact observance. Therefore in the ancient Roman culture, the Latin noun religio expresses the right observance of cults and, as a consequence, the respect for the gods. The verb re-legere is the opposite of the verb neg-legere (to neglect).

The derivation of the noun religio from religare (to connect, to reconnect) is in general problematic, because this reconnection can be seen in a feeling of an inner attachment to something transcendent, which was not common to classical beliefs. In its character, religio is in Roman antiquity rather a virtue than a kind of feeling. Central in the diligent performance of rituals was a kind of “pious awe,” which was not so intensive that the acting person in religious affairs was moved inside. This is one of the reasons why ancient Roman religio is basically incomprehensible to us. Nowadays, the adjective religiosus means “pious.” In a later development, homo religiosus means “member of an order,” a person who lives according to the three evangelical counsels: poverty, chastity, and obedience. This person wants to be, in his religious life, a good example to others. It was this meaning of the word pious (religiosus) that brought the noun religion into the Christian-shaped, Western culture, and less the Latin noun religio, in the ancient Roman sense.

To exhaust the full meaning of religion or belief, it is not sufficient to speak only of devoutness or “expression of devoutness.” Religion and belief also cover the sentence fides quaerens intellectum (faith or belief that searches for insight). Therefore, it has also to do with rationality and the search for reasonable causes. Saint Augustine (354–430 CE), as an exponent of Christian antiquity, and Saint Thomas Aquinas (ca. 1224/5–1274 CE), as a philosopher of high scholasticism, shaped the concept of religio as identical with Christianity. Other, non-Christian religions or beliefs could only be classified as lex, secta, or fides.

The meaning of the term lex is universal, according to our expression “denomination” or “total structure of life.” There is also a lex Christianorum, which means “doctrine and law of the Christian faith.” By no means is the forming of the concepts “religion” and “belief ” steady or logical. Within the historical development, beginning with classical antiquity up to the advent of Protestantism in the 16th century, it is not possible to find a strictly continuous development to the modern term religion . So, religio cannot be translated by or equated with religion or belief in today’s meaning.

If the Christian context of the word religion is left aside, then religion and also belief can be defined as the relationship of a human to a personal or impersonal transcendent, in whatever shape of “the Real”: a divine persona or impersona. The meaning of the Western terms religion or belief , influenced by Christian thoughts, changes in other European and non-European languages from “something that is owed to the transcendence” to “law/doctrine” and “eternal, never-ending structure.”

As a result, the term religion is more objective than the rather subjective term belief . Also, the concepts of belief— characterized as individual, personal belief, or conviction— and faith—characterized as universal belief—can be differentiated. Religion is in general the system of faith that people of the same conviction have in common. Belief is the personal activity, the “personal” faith, within the framework of religion. Belief system is very near to religion, but it emphasizes the personal religious activity more than universal faith.

After this etymological study, the paradigmatic development of the modern terms religion and belief will now be described in order to give a contemporary view on them. A religion that prescribes a belief in a deity of imaginable terms is marked as rational, according to the Lutheran theologian and historian of comparative religion Rudolf Otto. In his classic work, The Idea of the Holy (1917/1925), Otto also asked for the objectivity of religion or belief, and emphasized the “contrast between Rationalism and profounder religion.” One cannot do justice to religion or belief only by rational terms. The two opposite characterizations of religion are, as Otto pointed out, the tremendum, or the “awefulness,” and simultaneously the fascinans, or the “fascinating.” The tremendum shakes people in awe in sight of the mysterious, completely different being, God. This form of fear is by far different than the “natural,” or ordinary fear of a human, and applies more to the general “world-fear.” The tremendum derives from a “numinous dread” that terrifies and fascinates people at the same time.

The Romanian historian of religion Mircea Eliade, who worked at the University of Chicago, addressed Rudolf Otto’s reflections at the beginning of his book The Sacred and the Profane (1957/1959). Eliade focused on the nature of religion or belief, describing the manifestations of religion and the religious in a world that dissociates itself more and more from religious dimensions. But even in a secular world, there is something sacred that is characterized by humans as the opposite of the profane. The process is always the same: the “completely different” is a reality that is not of our world and manifests itself on things that are components of our natural, profane world.

Eliade repeatedly spoke of homo religious, and he wanted to make clear that religion and belief belong to the human nature. Therefore, people live as long as possible in the sacred universe. By the word sacred, the dimension of the religious is described. This dimension surrounds, carries, and holds the human as a religious being. On the other side, a secular person, who is able to live without any religious feeling, has a completely different, secular experience of the universe. She lives in a desacralized world. The religious feeling has to find its way by another, maybe hidden means. The secular person lives totally differently from the homo religious.

Almost 150 years earlier than Eliade, Friedrich D. E. Schleiermacher, a German Lutheran theologian and philosopher, classified religion and belief as a “feeling,” as the French philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau did before him. Schleiermacher called religion a “feeling of infinity” in his second speech, “On the Nature of Religion,” of his five speeches appearing in On Religion (1799/1996).

The German philosopher of the Age of Enlightenment, Immanuel Kant, stood in strong contrast to the definition of religion or belief as “feeling.” In his work Religion Within the Boundaries of Mere Reason (1793/1998), Kant proved that there was no way to conclude the certain feature of direct divine influence by a feeling. Hence, according to Kant, religion must be based on reason alone in order to be universal. For Kant, religion had to be a “pure religion of reason.” Although these two characterizations of religion as a “feeling” (Schleiermacher) or as a “pure religion of reason” (Kant) are opposing, these two definitions of religion may be coincident in the fact that religion or belief is something according to human nature. Therefore, around the year 1800, a concept of internal religion developed, which remains effective today.

Statements on religion or belief by the Protestant theologians Ernst Troeltsch (1912/1981) and Paul Tillich (1955, 1961/1988) underlined this fact. In another way, Tillich’s works can be regarded as examples of the effective power of the concept of religion or belief. In a different approach to Immanuel Kant, he distanced himself to consider “feeling” as the basic determination of religion. If religion could be connected to the pure subjectivity of emotion, then it would decline, because religion would loose its seriousness, its truth, and its highest sense. Without a highest content, religion would stay empty. In his essay “Religion as a Function of the Human Mind?” (1955/1988), Tillich defined religion as “something that concerns us immediately,” in the deepest sense of the universe. That which “concerns us immediately” referred to all creative functions of the human mind. However, this did not mean that religion and belief are fictions of the mind, created by human beings.

According to Tillich, the human mind is able to be creative in relation to both itself and to the world. But this creativeness is limited by the relationship to God. Religions and beliefs contain all areas of the human life and of the mind, as they build the substance, the basis, and the depth of the human intellectual life. Therefore religion or belief is not based on a function of the mind at all. Religion is universal; belief is individual. They are consequently the unconditioned components in every situation of human life. Being moved by religion is always related to a religious object. In this context, Tillich emphasized two points: (1) Religion and belief are always related to a content, which cannot be explained in the end; and (2) religion has always a social dimension, too. Nobody is alone in being religiously moved or in feeling any kind of religious emotion. Therefore, the objectivity of religion is founded by its social dimension, according to Tillich. As a consequence, religion and belief are situated in the human being, who is touched by a “revealed unconditioned being,” by a religious object. This can generally be applied to everyone. “Religious reality,” however, goes along with a secret consciousness: tua res agitur, “your situation is concerned.”

Two definitions of the concept of religion can be found in Tillich’s work. Both differ crucially from the traditional one—religion or belief as the human answers to the transcendent. (1) Tillich spoke of an “autonomous religion” that does not know a representational God, nor, consequently, any form of prayer. But in contradiction to that, religion is not impious or lacking a God. It just does not know any kind of ecclesiastical objectification of God. With mysticism, it is different again, because mysticism elevates itself beyond the objectification of God. (2) In his later essay, “Christianity and the Encounter of the World Religions” (1961/1988), Tillich mentioned quasireligions, which are similar to religions and have some features in common with religions. But quasireligions are only related to secular objects and consequently to secular institutions. Tillich differentiates between quasireligions and pseudoreligions. Both pretend intentionally to be similar to religions. The expansion of the concepts of religion or of belief as inward phenomena, which have been developed since the beginning of the 19th century, became clear in Tillich’s considerations.

The two concepts of quasireligions and pseudoreligions must be strictly distinguished from traditional, historical religions. Similar to quasireligions is what Eric Voegelin (1938/1999) and Raymond Aron (1965/1968) spoke of as political religion. An explosive nature is exhibited in the relationship between religion and politics, as it is demonstrated in the concept of political religion, and later on in the concepts of state religion or civil religion. The term political religion has its roots in religio politica, going back to the early 17th century. Since the 1930s, it served to classify the politicaltotalitarian mass movements of this time in a critical attitude toward ideology. This modern “political religion,” however, must be clearly distinguished from the “political religion” of classical antiquity and the later concepts of state religion and civil religion, which tried to institutionalize the relationship between religion and politics, not always in a fruitful way.

Generally speaking, it is possible to identify religion or belief as being situated in a person. Religion or belief must be further defined as a relationship and interchange between a human being and transcendent reality, which is relevant for humans. But the relationship to transcendence is not the only decisive criterion for a religion or a belief. Religions and beliefs are rather connected by a kind of “family resemblance,” as defined by Ludwig Wittgenstein (1953/2001). They are determined by overlapping qualities, including holiness, prayers, and services. Religions and beliefs also show similarities that connect them. These similarities, however, must not necessarily be alike in every religion or belief. Regarding those similarities, the reference to transcendence plays, of course, an important role. John Hick (2005) pointed out that another fundamental “family resemblance” of religions and beliefs, in addition to their reference to the transcendence, is their soteriological content, which describes the ability of a religion or belief to redeem human souls and allow salvation. However different their contents and traditions may be, this soteriological quality is a feature that all religions and beliefs have in common in various manners. Also, the validity of religious traditions was of great importance for Hick.

Religion and belief in the modern ideology can carefully be defined as generic terms, or concepts, which slowly have grown in importance in our modern age. These concepts are very different from the ancient meaning of the word religio, which first described all imaginations, attitudes, and actions of a person concerning the ultimate reality. Humans accept the ultimate reality as powers or a power, spirits or demons, gods or God, the “Sacred” or the “Absolute,” or just “Transcendence.” In ancient times, religio was not used as a collective name for each belief or as a universal term, in which various beliefs were summed up. The term religio, representing the past view on religion or belief, was used in a very narrow sense from antiquity up to the 16th century. At first, religio referred to the exercising of the rituals prescribed by law, but only later with regard to the Christian denomination. In general, it took a long time before religio and later “religion” had achieved their meaning, which led to the modern understanding of “religion.” Religion is more than the mere name of a personal belief. It expresses that humans are concerned about something beyond them. Also, death obtains a different meaning within a religious worldview. Romano Guardini (1940/1998), the Catholic priest, theologian, and philosopher of religion, considered death as the gate to the other side of human life, which remains secret to those who still live in this world. For religious people, death is no longer the end of life but, instead, is the turning point to a different reality.

Summing up, the terms religion and belief can be characterized by the following three points:

There are no universal terms for all religions or beliefsystems of humankind in each epoch.
There is no term that includes all aspects of what ismeant by religion or belief today. Even all these terms together cannot cover every aspect now meant by religion or belief.
Earlier terms of religio or religion stand in contrast to themodern meaning of religion. They emphasize the external practice of religion, the observance of ritual instructions and regulations, and the obedience to religious laws.

These three points, however, cannot unambiguously classify religions or beliefs and they do not ultimately define them. But they do outline the broad frame of the modern concept of religion and belief.

Since ancient times, as many sources teach, people have had various religious or pseudoreligious systems. In the past, religions and beliefs were the result of natural phenomena, which led people to fear and to require that these natural phenomena be explained. Also, social facts and mechanisms had to be explained through religious patterns. Ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman religions show this function of early religions or belief systems. These religions and beliefs were polytheistic (i.e., there were many different gods, who had different things to take care of). In many cases, one god is honored as supreme among the others (e.g., Zeus in ancient Greek religion or Jupiter/Jove in ancient Roman religion). The holy or the deity was often linked with nature. Humans found in nature the powerful influence of God: Therefore trees or fountains or mountains (esp. the peak, like Mount Fuji in Japan) were adored as holy, or as the place where the deity lives. Also in totems, things of everyday life or symbols or even animals, the spirit of a deity is believed to be effective. Therefore, it is forbidden, it is a taboo, to kill an animal in which a deity is believed to be present. These original religious aspects can be found within African religions and beliefs, or within the religions of the Pacific islands.

In the Egyptian and Roman traditions, the emperor was adored as a god and found his place in the Pantheon after his death. Archaeological proofs of these ancient religions and belief systems can be found in the pyramids in Egypt, as well as in the ancient Roman temples around the Mediterranean Sea. From the onset of European culture, politics, religion, and society were interconnected within the ancient state, the Greek pólis or the Roman civitas. So religions and politics were interlinked in ancient European societies. Later on, these three aspects differentiated more and more. Today, politics, religions, and societies are almost separated, but one should be aware that humans are oriented toward religious belief, as civilians within a political state and a civil society. So it is useful to respect religion and belief even within a political point of view.

At the beginning of ancient Greek culture, the explanations for the reasons why the universe came to exist, and why it exists the way it does, were given in the myths of the writers Homer (ca. 8th century BCE) and Hesiod (ca. 8th century BCE). Next, there was a shift from mythos (myths) to lógos (reason). This shift can be found in the quotations and fragments of the pre-Socratic philosophers, who turned their interests toward nature and the reasons for natural phenomena. Thales of Miletus (ca. 624–546 BCE), for example, a philosopher of nature living on the Ionic coast (today’s Turkey), gave a precise forecast for a total eclipse by calculation, but people took him almost for a prophet, and, what is more, he could forecast a rich bearing of olives, so that he lent all the olive presses in his country for a small amount of money, and consequently he was able to borrow them for a very good price. The next step from myths to reason can be found in the philosophy of Plato (ca. 428/427–348/347 BCE), a disciple of Socrates (ca. 469–399 BCE). Plato underlined his arguments in his dialogues with myths, in order to explain them better to his disciples. Among them, there was another important philosopher, the educator of Alexander the Great, Aristotle (384–322 BCE). Aristotle was also very interested in investigating natural phenomena and in explaining the world by reason, not by myths.

The general aim of this early Greek philosophy was to explain the universe by using human reason rather than mythical explanations. As a result, the soul of a human should not be in a disturbed situation, but in a quiet state, which is characterized as eudaimonía (felicity). The early philosophical schools in ancient Greece always had the intention of caring for the soul by giving reasonable explanations for the universe and its existence. Consequently, these early philosophical schools played the role that religions or beliefs play in our own time.

Major Religions and Belief Systems

There are many religious systems, including ancient systems or natural religions, or smaller derivates from the major religions or belief systems. All religions and belief systems aim to provide answers to human questions on the transcendent and to major questions on life and death. People thus find orientation for their lives within these major religions and belief systems.

In general, Eastern traditions differ from Western traditions. Among Eastern traditions, which have more the character of belief systems than religions, there is Hinduism and Buddhism, but also Confucianism in China, which concentrates on the ethical life, and the animistic and polytheistic Shinto in Japan, which honors and prays to the ancestors. These are known as very old religious traditions in the Eastern part of the world.

The Western traditions are better described as religions than as belief systems. The most important are Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. All three of these religions refer in quite different ways to Abraham (ca. 2000 BCE) as an ideal of a pious and religious person.

Also, Zoroastrianism is counted among the major religious traditions or belief systems. It is considered to be the first monotheistic belief system, with Ahura Mazda as the universal God. But it is also a dualistic system; asha/arta is the principle of “truth” and “order” whereas druj, “lie,” is the opposite. Both principles “fight” against each other in the world. Zoroastrianism was founded by the prophet Zoroaster, or Zarathushtra, in the farmland area of today’s Western Iran. The main teachings of Zoroastrianism can be found in the scripture Zend-Avesta.

In Asia, the Hindu traditions are well known; the religion of the Vedas and the Upanishads is grounded in very old scriptures (e.g., the Bhagavad Gita or “Song of God”). The beginning of these traditions is about 4,000 years BCE in India. The Hindu traditions have a polytheistic basis, with Shiva and Vishnu as the central deities, but only one eternal aim: the unification of the individual soul, atman, with the highest spirit, Brahman . After several lives, the soul can enter the Brahman, leaving the system of reincarnation ( samsara ), if the karma, the balance of all individual actions, is good enough. Five elements are considered to be central for Hindu beliefs: (1) dharma (ethics and duties), (2) samsara (cycle of reincarnation), (3) karma (action and resulting reaction), (4) moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth), and (5) yogas (paths and practices). Though it is controversially debated among scholars whether the caste system is an important part of Hindu teaching, this social system remains strong even today. There are four castes, called varnas, beginning with the highest cast: (1) Brahmins (teachers and priests); (2) Kshatriyas (warriors, nobles, and kings); (3) Vaishyas (farmers, merchants, and businessmen); and (4) Shudras (servants and laborers). The caste system is very rigid. Marriage is only possible within one caste. People outside the caste system, Parjanya or Antyaja (or now Dalits), the “untouchables,” have almost no chance to progress in social life. Therefore, this system has often been criticized as discriminatory (e.g., by Mahatma Gandhi [1869–1948], whose ideal was absolute peacefulness).

Also in Asia, the Buddhist tradition is founded on the philosophy of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha (ca. 563–483 BCE), who was a teacher of spiritual wisdom. There are two main traditions in Buddhism: the Mahayana (great vehicle) Buddhism and the Theravada (ancient teaching) Buddhism. A smaller tradition is the Hinayana (low vehicle) Buddhism. Central Buddhist teachings contain the Four Noble Truths: (1) the nature of suffering ( dukkha ), (2) suffering’s origin ( samudaya ), (3) suffering’s cessation ( nirodha ), and (4) the way ( marga ) leading to the cessation of suffering. This “way” (marga) is characterized by the Noble Eightfold Path: (1) right view, (2) right intention (wisdom), (3) right speech, (4) right action, (5) right livelihood (ethical conduct), (6) right effort, (7) right mindfulness, and (8) right concentration (concentration). The Noble Eightfold Path contains the ethical “program” of Buddhism.

One aim of Buddhism is to bring cessation from suffering to the human soul. There are several traditions within Buddhism. Among them, there is Zen Buddhism in Japan and Tibetan Buddhism, whose head is the Dalai Lama. The monastic tradition is also very common in Buddhism, because its discipline helps the adherent to succeed in achieving the aim, the nirvana, as a unity of the individual soul with the universal in the absolute nothingness (nirvana).

The Mosaic tradition, later Judaism, is historically the first major tradition in Western culture. Christianity and Islam followed. In Judaism, humankind has been given the advice to follow God’s law, which was revealed on Mount Sinai, or Horeb to Moses. This revelation took place during the Exodus, the Jews’ escape out of Egyptian slavery. Moses was the leader of the people of Israel during that time. A life in accordance to the law will end up in felicity and prosperity, even after death. The prophets played a major role, because they renewed the concentration on God’s revelation within his law. During the reign of the Babylonian emperor Nebuchadnezzar II (ca. 630–562 BCE), the Jewish people were kidnapped and taken to Babylon. The Babylonian Talmud was written during this time, a commentary on the Torah, with respect to other commentaries and the oral tradition, in order to give a set of rules for everyday life. Literature interpreting the Torah is known as midrash.

When the people of Israel returned to the Holy Land, they built the first temple. In the year 70 CE, the temple was destroyed by the Romans, and the rabbinic phase began in Judaism. Rabbis are teachers of the Holy Scripture and they interpret for believers. They also give advice to pious Jews on how to manage life and how to decide in problematic situations. The halakha means to follow properly the way of the Jewish tradition.

Judaism today is quite various. There are liberal branches, as well as orthodox branches, whose believers observe the traditional religious law very strictly. As predicted in the prophecies of the Hebrew Bible, Jewish people still wait for the Messiah, who will come in the future in order to complete the divine law in his person.

In Christianity, Jesus Christ is believed to be the son of God, who came to redeem people. After the original sin of Adam and Eve, humankind survived for the redemption. The redeemer is Jesus Christ, who was crucified by the Romans after being accused, by the Jews in Jerusalem, of heresy for pretending to be the Messiah, and whose resurrection after 3 days astonished people, especially his own disciples. After another 40 days, Jesus Christ went up into heaven. After another 9 days, the Holy Spirit was sent down to earth in order to lead the faithful and to give consolation to them. God is the Holy Trinity in Christian tradition: God-Father, God-Son, God-Holy-Spirit.

Later, the Christian church developed into a more and more powerful institution, which secures the tradition of belief and teaching. Although crusades have occurred, the Christian doctrine is against force and tends toward peace on earth. In the year 1054 CE, the Eastern Greek Church turned away from the Latin Roman Church with the pope, the bishop of Rome, as Vicar of Christ and head of the church. Formally, there were two reasons for the East-West Schism: First, the Western and the Eastern traditions could not find a proper date for Easter, and second, the Eastern tradition could not agree to the filioque (“and by the Son”) within the credo, the big confession of the faith. The filioque means that the Holy Spirit was sent by the Father and Son together.

In the 16th century, the Protestant Reformation movements began with the Augustinian monk Martin Luther (1483–1546) in Germany, Huldrych Zwingli (1484–1531), and John Calvin (1509–1564) in Switzerland. The theologians Erasmus of Rotterdam (1466 or 1469–1536) and Philipp Melanchthon (1497–1560) both followed the Lutheran teaching and supported the Protestant teaching in the academic sector (e.g., by writing important letters). The Protestant Reformation movements wanted to renew the Western Church (e.g., by providing new translations of the Bible, and a new structure by changing the hierarchy). But in the end, these movements divided the church again as a result of a second big schism. Protestant Christianity then divided again into the many small movements and churches, or denominations, of today.

In 1534, the English Church separated from the Roman Church, and as a result the Church of England or Anglican Church was founded. The king or the queen of England is the head of the Anglican Church, and meanwhile the Archbishop of Canterbury exercises this office worldwide in the Anglican Church (e.g., the Episcopal Church in the USA). Whereas the High Church is near to the Catholic Church, the Low Church is nearer to the Protestant Church. So the Anglican Church regards itself as a “middle way” between Protestantism and Roman Catholicism.

In contrast to Protestantism, the Catholic Church keeps up its 2,000-year-old tradition and discipline, although the Second Ecumenical Council of the Vatican (1962–1965) has changed some elements in this tradition.

Islam was founded by the prophet Muhammad (ca. 570–632 CE), who had a direct revelation from God ( Alla – h ). This revelation is written down in the Koran, the holy book of Islam. In 622 CE, the first year of the Islamic calendar, Muhammad went from Mecca to Medina; this event is called the Hijra, or “walk,” which was the founding act of Islam. Sometime later, Muhammad returned to Mecca with his soldiers and gained a lot of followers and power. Islam regards itself as the final religion, which is based on the ultimate revelation given by God to Muhammad. This revelation gave perfection to the Mosaic and Christian revelation. Muhammad, the prophet of God, is the last and the highest of the prophets.

In the Islamic tradition, on each Friday there is a ritual prayer in the mosque. Ritual prayers are among the most important elements of Islam, the so-called Five Pillars of Islam: (1) fasting in the month of Ramadan, (2) the pilgrimage to Mecca (hajj), (3) ritual prayers (salát) several times a day, (4) charity (e.g., giving money to the poor), and (5) the profession of faith. Also, the observance of religious law (sharia), which contains rules for all areas of human life, is central to Islamic teaching. Islam is a religion or belief system of strict discipline, and it has gained a lot of influence in the states of both the Near East and the Middle East, as well as in Indonesia and Africa.

Each major religion or belief system knows certain objects and symbols, as well as rites. The rite is often connected with specific objects or symbols. In Buddhism, for instance, the wheel is a symbol of the recurrence of life and, more important, the Noble Eightfold Path. In the Mosaic tradition, the Star of David is the central symbol of identification. In Christianity, the cross, on which Christ was sacrificed, is the core symbol. And in the Islamic tradition, the half moon, as well as the sword, is central.

Symbols serve to give meaning to rites. In Jewish service, for example, the scrolls of the Torah must not be touched by humans, because they are absolutely sacred and represent God’s presence. Therefore signs exist, sometimes formed like a human hand, with which the scrolls of the Torah can be touched in order to follow the lines, which have to be cited. Another symbol in Jewish service is the shofar, a horn (e.g., from a ram, which is blown in preparation for and during Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, when humans reconcile with God). Yom Kippur is celebrated 10 days after Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.

In the Catholic Holy Mass, wine and bread are leavened and then transubstantiated into the blood and body of Christ as an unbloody renewal of the Crucifixion of Christ. The Host is then essentially Christ, and it is carefully venerated and adored. Also, the Virgin Mary is venerated in the Catholic faith as the Mother of Jesus Christ (i.e., the Mother of God). In the Protestant traditions, the transubstantiation is interpreted in a different way. The essential real presence of Christ is limited to the moment of the transubstantiation. Also, the veneration of the Virgin Mary and the saints is not common in the Protestant tradition. In order to venerate the Corpus Christi (body of Christ), the Virgin Mary, or the saints, there are often processions of Christians, especially in the Catholic tradition.

The pilgrimage ( hajj ) to Mecca, one of the holy cities of Islam, has its aim in circling around the Kaaba, or “cube.” The Kaaba is a thousand-year-old small building and the most sacred place in Islam. In the Eastern corner of the Kaaba, there is the Black Stone, the most important feature of the “cube.” All Muslims pray in the direction of Mecca, as it is the center of Islam.

Also, ritual dances or specific music or songs help to bring people into a state of mind that leads them toward a deeper understanding of the transcendent. The location for rites is, in most cases, a sacred place or a temple (in Christianity, a church), which can be seen as the house of God. These “houses of God or gods” attach a specific place to religions or beliefs, thereby providing an identity for them; also, they provide a meeting point for the believers as a kind of “home.”

Religions and belief systems express themselves in teachings, on the one hand manifested by oral traditions and on the other by sacred manuscripts. The basis for most of the teachings is a divine revelation.

The most common religious manuscript in our times is the Holy Bible, the “book of books.” But in the Far East, we have a lively tradition of Holy Scriptures: In the Vedas and Upanishads, Indian religious wisdom is written down, as in the Bhagavad Gita, or Song of God, as mentioned earlier. In the Bhagavad Gita, Sanjaya, who has a supernatural eye, tells the blind-born king Dhritarashtra about the big battle (between the near-related royal families of the Pandavas and Kauravas) that took place in the region where now the city of Delhi is located.

Judaism and Christianity refer in different ways to the Holy Bible. The Mosaic tradition is based on the five books of Moses, the Mosaic law or the Torah, the books of the prophets, and the psalms. Another important writing of Jewish tradition is The Guide of the Perplexed by Moses Maimonides (ca. 1135–1204), which considers religious and philosophical aspects, and helps to interpret the Jewish law properly. Maimonides’s influence on Jewish thinking still remains intense. Christianity is also based on the Old Testament, partly equivalent to the Hebrew Bible ( Tanakh ), but also on the New Testament: the Four Gospels, the Acts of the Apostles, the Epistles of Saint Paul, and the General or Catholic Epistles, as well as the Apocalypse of Saint John.

In the Koran, or “the recitation,” the holy book of Islam, the revelation to Muhammad resulted in the central teachings of Islam, which are the core of the religious law, the sharia. Furthermore, the sunna, the history of the life of Muhammad, is the model of a good life for a Muslim. In Islam, the religious law, the sharia, has a great meaning, so the most important religious leaders are judges.

Teachings of all religions provide explanations for the beginning of the universe, as in Genesis, the first book of the bible, moral teachings, and orders for a good life, which must match the will of God. These moral teachings belong to the realm of natural rights, which are similar in all religions and belief systems and their teachings. Natural rights follow human nature and therefore human rationality. Religious teachings give answers to crucial human questions concerning the universe, ethical problems, and life and death.

In the field of religions and beliefs, many fruitful future research areas can be found. The humanities, especially the studies of religion, which are linked to anthropological and sociocultural research, create new research areas: using the structuralistic method of the French ethnologist Claude Lévi-Strauss, rituals are analyzed in order to discover the common structures of rituals in different religions or beliefs. Furthermore, the discourse of religions and beliefs are examined as well. Therefore, the dynamics and controversies within this discursive process are analyzed and described in order to obtain more results concerning the relationship between different religions and belief systems.

Also, the aesthetics of religions or beliefs are currently under scrutiny. Religions and beliefs can be described as aesthetical systems or systems of symbols, which influence the human realization of reality. The aesthetics of religion build up a systematic coherence for religions and belief systems. Another field of interest is the influence of religions and beliefs on different human societies and politics, because religions and belief systems provide ethical rules and values. Psychological studies examine the inner processes caused by the personal beliefs of a human being, for example during religious examinations, such as prayers or meditations. Very important for future research on religion is the investigation of human nature. All religions or belief systems provide concepts of human nature. This question of human nature is important for answering many questions and solving many problems in terms of the sciences in the future (e.g., in human-genetics research).

Also, in philosophy and theology, there are new areas of research, especially the examination of the relationship between rationality and religion or belief. For example, the context of metaphysical considerations of late antiquity and the appearance of Christian revelation in the first centuries, beginning with early Fathers of the Church like Origen (185–254 CE) and ending with Saint Augustine (354–430 CE). During that time, theology has its origins in the confrontation of philosophy and religion. A major rational concentration on religious thoughts can be found in the Middle Ages (e.g., in the Summa Theologica, written from 1264–1274, of Saint Thomas Aquinas). The rationalism of the European Enlightenment emphasized critical views grounded in logic and nature. After rationalism, German idealism included religion systematically within philosophy as a philosophical perfection of the spirit. The German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900) understood his philosophical work as a negative profile of religion in contrast to Christian thinking, which, he posited, is not suitable to human nature. But in the 20th and 21st centuries, religions and beliefs soon came back to the intellectual agenda. Therefore, religions and beliefs are truly fruitful objects for future research, as well as for anthropological research.

Summing up, the following three points are important for an anthropological perspective of religions and beliefs:

Religions and belief systems want to give humans aspecial place in the universe and within reality itself, which is of course a different orientation from the scientific worldview, but nevertheless one way to consider the universe and humans within it.
People may not want to refer to religion or beliefs assomething entirely made by humans. For many people, religions and beliefs should include a serious transcendental relationship (e.g., based on a revelation). Otherwise, religion is in danger of becoming an ideology, which may lead people to the use of force and cruelty, as in totalitarian political systems. Such systems are often characterized as political religions, like fascism, national socialism, or communism.
Moreover, religions and belief systems need not be rigidsystems of moral teachings in order to suppress others. Religions offer guidelines for life respecting the truth, with the aim being a future life (of the soul) in truth and peace. In religions and belief systems, people want to live their lives in accordance with God, as fruitful and successful individuals. And, what is more, people want to gain the hope for eternal life or redemption after death, which thereby gives a meaningful sense to human existence, like a gate to paradise, near to God or the transcendent.

Religions and beliefs belong to many fields in the humanities: theology, philosophy, sociology, history, religious studies, and psychology (among others). It is very important that, in many perspectives on human life, religion and belief play a role as an answer to the question of the sense of human life and death. In religions and belief systems, humans seek answers to many other questions as well, especially in terms of ethical questions and the question of a good life. As a result, religions and belief systems play a major role within anthropological considerations of any kind.

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Others’ words, not firsthand experience, shape scientific and religious belief formation, HKUST study finds | The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

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Others’ words, not firsthand experience, shape scientific and religious belief formation, HKUST study finds

(This article was originally published on EurekAlert! on June 3, 2024)

Three proposals explaining the differential confidence.

A group photo of the research team from left to right:(1) Ayse Payir, (Incoming) Assistant Professor at Department of Psychology, Union College; (2) Paul L. Harris, Victor S. Thomas Professor of Education, Graduate School of Education, Harvard University; (3) Shaocong Ma, Research Assistant Professor, Division of Social Science, HKUST; (4) Niamh McLoughlin, Policy and Research Manager for Education Initiatives, Department of Economics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

An international research team led by the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has uncovered in a recent research project that people’s beliefs in science and religion are primarily shaped by the words of others, rather than their personal experiences. The study could help enhance public understanding of people’s belief formation in important scientific issues, such as climate change and vaccination.

Conventionally, people are generally more confident about the existence of scientific phenomena, like oxygen, than religious phenomena, like God, as it is thought that people can experience oxygen, for instance, while it is harder to observe religious entities on one’s own.

The team, led by Prof. Mary Shaocong MA, a Research Assistant Professor from the Division of Social Science at HKUST, challenged the conventional view. They argued that both scientific and religious beliefs are primarily shaped by testimony or information we get from others, such as experts or our community, rather than personal experience.

The study highlights the decisive role of testimony in forming our beliefs and understanding of the world, contrary to the notion that direct experience is the main driver of scientific belief.

“Even when it seems like we’re experiencing something directly, our understanding is often heavily influenced by what we’ve been told by experts or our community. For example, witnessing a relative falling ill, it’s very hard for a child to detect that viruses cause illness; rather, they turn to others’ testimony, such as parents’ teaching, to understand the causal relations. Recognizing this can help determine the most effective way to communicate scientific information to the public. By highlighting the credibility and consensus of scientific evidence, it is possible to promote greater acceptance and confidence in scientific facts, especially regarding emerging scientific topics, such as climate change” says Prof. Ma.

“This insight is crucial for combating misinformation and enhancing public understanding and support for scientific matters, such as addressing climate change and getting vaccinated,” she further explains.

In the research, by reviewing empirical evidence in the past few decades, the team proposed a theoretical model that explains how people come to believe in the existence of invisible entities, such as germs in science or God in religion.

For example, it finds that people believe in germs because doctors and scientists tell us they exist, even though we cannot see them with our own eyes. Likewise, we infer that people get sick because of germs by learning this causal relation from others rather than discovering this connection through personal observation.

The model also establishes that the more credible the source of the information and the more people who agree with it, the more likely people are to believe it. “If many people around us agree that climate change is real, their consensus strengthens our belief in these concepts,” she says.

It shows that people's confidence in these phenomena is not because they have seen them directly but because they trust the sources that tell them about them.

Unlike previous models that proposed separate pathways for belief formation in science and religion, this model provides a unified explanation. It argues that others’ testimony, rather than direct experience, predominantly shapes beliefs in both domains.

The team's findings, realized in collaboration with researchers at Harvard University, Union College, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, were recently published in a top international journal Trends in Cognitive Sciences by Cell Press.

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Several project options that reinforce the main ideas of Unit 3.

Vocations: Answering God’s Call – Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 2

A grading rubric for the final performance tasks for the Unit.

Vocations: Answering God’s Call – Final Performance Task Options for Unit 2

Several project ideas centered around the main ideas from the Unit.

Vocations: Answering God’s Call – Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 1

An assessment rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 1.

Vocations: Answering God’s Call - Final Performance Task Options for Unit 1

Several final performance task options/activities that correlate with Unit 1 of Vocations: Answering God’s Call.

Middle School Retreat to Learn about the Church as a Saving Community

An outline to help plan a middle school retreat focused on the Church as a saving community.

Presentations on Vocations

A project where students are asked to create several presentations on vocations.

Modern-Day Martyrs: Redemptive Love in Action

An activity where students will learn about the lives of several modern-day martyrs, draw connections between the lives of these people and the life and death of Jesus, and explore what the witness of martyrs, from the time of Jesus …

A Graphic Novel or Play

A project where students are asked to create either a graphic novel or a play based on what they have learned in the Old Testament.

Researching and Writing about Scripture

A wrap-up project on researching and writing about Scripture.

Revelation Gallery Walk Stations

Directions for five gallery walk stations: Revelation and Salvation History, The Longing for God, Natural Revelation, Finding God in All Things, and God’s Revelation in Scripture.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 5

A grading rubric for the final performance task project options for Unit 5 of The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth, Third Edition.

Several final performance task project options for Unit 5 of The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth, Third Edition.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 4

An evaluation rubric for the project ideas from Unit 4 of The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth, Third Edition.

Several project ideas that coincide with Unit 4 of The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth, Third Edition.

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 4 of The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth Teacher Guide.

Several final performance tasks options for Unit 4 of The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth Teacher Guide.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 3 of “The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth”

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 3 of “The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 3 of “The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth”

Several final performance task options for Unit 3 of “The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 2 of “The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth”

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 2 of “The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 2 of “The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth”

Several final performance task options for Unit 2 of “The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth.”

Interview Questions for a Practicing Catholic

A list of interview questions to ask a practicing Catholic.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 1 of “The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth”

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 1 of “The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 1 of “The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth”

Several final performance task options for Unit 1 of “The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth.”

Wrap-up: A Graphic Novel or Playlist, from Section 3 of "Jesus Christ: God's Love Made Visible"

A section wrap-up activity where students create a graphic novel or playlist.

The Life and Times of Jesus, from Section 3 Part 2 of "Jesus Christ: God's Love Made Visible"

A homework assignment on the life and times of Jesus.

Research Ideas for the Life and Times of Jesus, from Section 3 Part 2 of "Jesus Christ: God's Love Made Visible"

Several research ideas for projects and activities on the life and times of Jesus.

Revelation Gallery Walk Stations Wrap-Up Activity, from Section 2 of "Jesus Christ: God's Love Made Visible"

Stations for a section wrap-up Revelation gallery walk.

Interviewing an Adult Who Has a Personal Relationship with Jesus, from Section 2 Part 1 of "Jesus Christ: God's Love Made Visible"

How to conduct an interview with an adult who has a personal relationship with Jesus, including appropriate questions to ask.

A Brochure about the Trinity in Everyday Life

A wrap-up activity for Section 1 of “Jesus Christ: God’s Love Made Visible.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 8 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ”

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 8 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 8 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ”

Several final performance task options for Unit 8 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 7 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ”

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 7 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 7 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ”

Several final performance task options for Unit 7 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Paul's Missionary Journeys

A group assignment on Paul’s missionary journeys.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 6 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ”

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 6 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 6 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ”

Several final performance task options for Unit 6 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Analyzing Artistic Depictions of the Book of Glory

A group activity where students analyze the artistic depictions of the Book of Glory.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 5 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ”

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 5 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 5 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ”

Several final performance task options for Unit 5 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 4 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ”

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 4 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 4 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ”

Several final performance task options for Unit 4 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 3 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ”

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 3 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 3 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ”

Several final performance task options for Unit 3 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 2 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ”

An evaluation rubric for Unit 2 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 2 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ”

Several final performance task options for Unit 2 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 1 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ”

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for unit 1 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 1 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ"

Several final performance task options for Unit 1 of “The New Testament: The Good News of Jesus Christ.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 8 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 8 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 8 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 8 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 7 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 7 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 7 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 7 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 6 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 6 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 6 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 6 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

Miracle Presentation Plans

A planning sheet for a group presentation on miracles.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 5 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 5 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 5 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 5 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

A Service Project

A service project that will help students imitate Jesus’ love for those in need.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 4 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 4 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 4 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 4 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 3 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 3 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 3 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 3 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 2 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 2 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 2 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 2 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 1 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

An evaluation rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 1 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

Final performance Task Options for Unit 1 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 1 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” New Testament Teacher Guide.

Using Rubrics to Assess Work

A reading on using rubrics to assess students’ work.

Using Final Performance Tasks to Assess Understanding

A reading on how to use final performance tasks to assess student understanding.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 8 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 8 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 8 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 8 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 7 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 7 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 7 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 7 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 6 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 6 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 6 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 6 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 5 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 5 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 5 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 5 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Moses and Joshua: Small-Group Project, from “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

A small-group project where students compare and contrast Moses and Joshua as leaders of Israel, from “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Rubric for Final Performance Task Options for Unit 4 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 4 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 4 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 4 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Festivals and Holy Days: Research Project, from “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

A research project on festivals and holy days, from “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Rubric for the Final Performance Task Options for Unit 3 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 3 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 3 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 3 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 2 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 2 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 2 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 2 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 1 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 1 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 1 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide

Several final performance task options for Unit 1 of “The Catholic Youth Bible” Old Testament Teacher Guide.

A reading on using rubrics to assess or evaluate students’ work.

A reading on using final performance tasks in the classroom to assess students' understanding.

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 8 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 8 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 8 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

Several final performance task options for Unit 8 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 7 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 7 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 7 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

A list of several final performance task options for Unit 7 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 6 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 6 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 6 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

A list of several final performance task options for Unit 6 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 5 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 5 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 5 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

A list of several final performance task options for Unit 5 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 5 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 5 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 5 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

A list of several final performance task options for Unit 5 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 6 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 6 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

Just Choices

A worksheet on just choices where students choose a topic to cover as well as a task based on their preferred learning style.

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 6 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

A list of several final performance task options for Unit 6 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

Students Teaching Students About Environmental Justice

A lesson plan entitled “Students Teaching Students about Environmental Justice.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 4 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

A grading rubric for several final performance task options for Unit 4 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 7 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

A grading rubric for several final performance task options for Unit 7 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

A list of several final performance task options for Unit 4 of "Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society."

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 7 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

A list of several final performance task options for Unit 7 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

Prayer Stations

Three prayer stations presenting ideas for craft projects to help make forgiveness more tangible for students.

Rubric for Final Performance Task for Unit 8 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 8 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 8 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

Several final performance task options for Unit 8 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 3 of "Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society."

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 3 of "Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society."

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 3 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

Several final performance task options for Unit 3 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

Rubric for Final Performance Task in Unit 4 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

A grading rubric for final performance tasks for Unit 4 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

Final Performance Tasks Options for Unit 4 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

A listing of several final performance tasks options for Unit 4 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 2 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 2 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

Final Performance Task Options for Unit 2 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

A listing of several final performance task options for Unit 2 of “Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 3

A grading rubric for several final performance tasks for Unit 3 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

A number of final performance task options for Unit 3 of "The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ."

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 2

A rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 2 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

A listing of final performance task options for Unit 2 of “The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ.”

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 1

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 1 of "The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ."

A grading rubric for the final performance task options for Unit 1 of "Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society."

Options for final performance tasks for Unit 1 of "Catholic Social Teaching: Christian Life in Society."

Options for final performance tasks for Unit 1 of "The Sacraments: Encounters with Christ."

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 8

A rubric for final performance tasks for Unit 8 of "Christian Morality: Our Response to God's Love."

Several performance task options for Unit 8 of "Christian Morality: Our Response to God's Love."

Spotlighting Quotes on Respecting Sexualtity

Quotes on respecting sexuality, from "Christian Morality: Our Response to God's Love."

Card Deal Questions on the Christian Vision of Marriage

An activity dealing with index cards from "Christian Morality: Our Response to God's Love."

Rubric for Final Performance Tasks for Unit 7

A rubric for final performance tasks for Unit 7 of "Christian Morality: Our Response to God's Love."

Final Performace Task for Unit 7

Several final performance task options for Unit 7 of "Christian Morality: Our Response to God's Love."

Options for final performance tasks for Unit 6 of "Christian Morality: Our Response to God's Love."

This resource is from the Living in Christ Series. It offers various project ideas for students who are or have been studying ecclesiology, especially, the role of community, prayer, and discipleship in the Church.

This resouce is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers various project ideas for students who are or have been studying ecclesiology, especially the role of the Magisterium on matter of faith and morals.

This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers various project ideas for students who have recently studied ecclesiology, especially ecumenism and interreligious dialogue.

This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. If offers various project ideas for students who have recently studied eccesiology, especially the roles of the hierarchy, the vowed religious, and the laity.

The Church Is One

This project is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students are asked to do research on the mark of the Church as 'One' using various websites.

This resource is part o the Living in Christ Series. It offers ideas for final assessment activities for students studying apostolic succession, sacraments, and the four marks of the Church.

This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers various project ideas for students who have recently studied eccesiology, especially the nature and role of the Catholic Church.

Paul, the Missionary Adventurer: The Comic Book Version

This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. It is a project idea for students to create a comic book/graphic novel about Paul's adventures in the Acts of the Apostles.

This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers ideas for assessing students who have recently learned about the Church, especially the birth of the Church at Pentecost.

This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers ideas for assessing students who have recently studied the Church, including the scriptural accounts of early Church.

This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers various project ideas for students who are or have been studying the Paschal Mystery, especially with regard to discipleship, vocation, and holiness.

This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers various project ideas for students who are or have recently been studying the Paschal Mystery, especially in terms of personal and communal prayer.

This resource is from the Living in Christ Series. It offers various project ideas for students who have recently studied the Paschal Mystery, especially the themes of redemptive suffering and grace.

This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. It offers various project ideas for students who have recently studied the Paschal Mystery, especially the birth of the Church at Pentecost, the descent of the Holy Spirit, and the …

The Powerful Symbol of the Cross

This activity is part of the Living in Christ Series. Students can reflect the difference between symbols and signs, and do a project to create their own symbol of the Cross.

Modern Day Martyrs

This resource is part of the Living in Christ Series. It introduces a project idea for students learning about modern-day martyrs for their faith and religious convictions.

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May 31, 2024

This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

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Researchers analyze prevalence, impact of ethical or religious barriers to providing medical aid in dying

by CU Anschutz Medical Campus

Recently published research led by the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus examined the prevalence—and impact—of physicians' ethical or religious barriers to their involvement in medical aid in dying (MAiD), a multi-step process where a physician provides a terminally ill adult with decision-making capacity with a lethal dose of medication to end their life.

The research article , " Conscience-Based Barriers to Medical Aid in Dying: A Survey of Colorado Physicians ," was published this May in the Journal of General Internal Medicine. It shows that 26% of physician survey respondents reported large ethical and/or religious barriers to their involvement in MAiD.

Despite these barriers, the research suggests these conscience-based barriers do not appear to affect these physicians ' willingness to discuss medical aid in dying with their patients. However, they are much less likely to have any direct participation in it—being significantly less likely to serve as a consulting or attending physician—compared to physicians without these barriers.

Informing public policy

As legislators and health leaders across the nation continue to debate policies related to medical aid in dying, research like this is vital to making informed decisions.

"Medical aid in dying is under consideration in a number of states, and it comes up every legislative session. You cannot make policy around things that are not well understood, and so it was critical to gather data to better understand what's going on," says Mika Hamer, Ph.D., MPH, the first author on the paper and a post-doctoral research fellow with the CU Center for Bioethics and Humanities.

"It is important to look at the actual behaviors of physicians. This research offers essentially the first look into what is happening on the ground in a previously hidden and difficult-to-study population."

For Hillary Lum, MD, Ph.D., a co-author of the paper and associate professor in the CU Division of Geriatric Medicine, getting involved in this research was important to her as a geriatrician and palliative medicine physician, given that questions about MAiD may arise when caring for older adults with serious illnesses.

"Medical aid-in-dying was legalized in 2016 in Colorado, but physician experiences providing care for patients seeking MAiD was under-studied," Lum says.

A reason for the lack of data is because there are extensive protections in place for physician and patient privacy. As a result, the vast majority of data that exists are from qualitative studies or surveys of the general physician population.

"There is a long-standing debate around MAiD—the legality, the ethical appropriateness, the morality—and people have extremely strong opinions about it. But when we let those really strong opinions drive policy, rather than empirical data , we run the risk of implementing misguided policy that is more amenable to the cultural sentiment or social context at the time," Hamer says.

To gather data about this important issue, researchers used anonymized, aggregate information on the 554 patients known to have received a MAiD prescription in Colorado from 2017 to 2020 and then identified the clinical conditions most prominent in this patient population.

The research team then determined which physicians in Colorado were providing care to patients likely to qualify for MAiD based on their clinical conditions and sent them an anonymous survey regarding their willingness to provide MAiD and actual prior participation in MAiD. Ultimately, 300 physicians responded.

Since then, researchers have published several papers about the study, including: a scientific report about the research methodology; an analysis of physician's attitudes and experiences ; an examination of their perspectives on disclosure, presence, and eligibility ; and the use and influence of medical aid in dying service on physician experiences .

"We felt there was an opportunity to look at this untapped aspect of the survey research. We had a hunch that there was something about ethical or religious barriers that may be different than other types of barriers physicians faced, like lack of time or fear of stigma," Hamer says.

"We wanted to understand what these physicians have actually done when faced with these decisions, and we had a unique opportunity to measure that and lend some empirical data into what is a very contentious topic—but one that's really quite understudied as far as hard data goes," she adds.

Lum agrees with Hamer, saying, "In the absence of data, it's easy to make assumptions—either that there are many physicians who have a conscientious objection to MAiD, or that there are few."

"Thus, this study was important to actually measure the percentage of physicians who have a religious or ethical reason for not participating in MAiD activities," Lum adds.

What the research shows

Out of the 300 survey respondents, 26% of physicians likely to care for MAiD-eligible patients in Colorado reported large ethical and/or religious barriers to participating in MAiD activities.

The survey also shows physicians with a longer time in practice and those identifying as non-white were more likely to report these conscience-based barriers.

Hamer said she was surprised that the survey data shows the physicians with these conscience-based barriers are still willing to participate in some aspects of the MAiD process. Specifically, when comparing physicians with and without these barriers, there was no difference in ancillary participation, meaning having discussions about MAiD or referring patients to other providers.

However, there were significant differences regarding direct participation in MAiD. To be eligible for MAiD, a patient must have decision-making capacity and a prognosis of less than six months to live. This prognosis must be independently verified by two physicians—an attending and consulting physician.

The survey found that only 5% of physicians with conscience-based barriers had served as a MAiD consultant, as compared to 31% of physicians without conscience-based barriers. When it came to serving as a MAiD attending, no physicians with conscience-based barriers had served in this role compared to 21% of physicians without these barriers.

"Participation looks different for different people. As far as consulting or attending, which are much more active roles that may involve writing prescriptions or doing evaluations—that's where we start to see those barriers really show up in terms of changes in behavior," Hamer says.

Lum says, "I think this emphasizes the importance of the relationship between physicians and patients. Whether a physician is willing to discuss, refer, serve as a consulting physician, or serve as a MAID attending physician is likely to vary. And there may be different reasons and situations related to the individual patient."

Both Hamer and Lum noted that this study was limited in its sample size, highlighting the need for further research. With regard to conscience-based barriers, Hamer says it is important to distinguish that these "are not necessarily barriers to be overcome in the traditional sense of barriers."

"We really see this as a space where physicians need accommodation—not intervention to help change their mind around this barrier," Hamer says. "It calls for continued protection of physician rights to conscientiously object or not participate in a service to which they have deeply held, conflicting beliefs."

There is also a need to better understand what support systems and processes need to be in place in clinics or hospitals to help support those physicians who have religious or ethical barriers. For instance, perhaps a formal referral process could be created so that physicians with these barriers can be involved in the beginning stages of MAiD, but when it comes to the more active roles, there is an established team the patient can be referred to.

"We must have protections in place and processes to support these physicians while ensuring patients are able to get the care they desire," Hamer says. "It is something that needs to be considered especially as the legality of MAiD potentially expands. We need a balance between protecting physicians' rights and preserving patient access."

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Summer construction projects underway

Installations, repairs, renovations, and refreshes to go full speed ahead to welcome new and returning students in august.

Construction workers are shown working on the face of a five story residence hall.

Carlos Ortiz/RIT

Construction projects continue on the RIT campus this summer, including major work on residence halls. The summer weather and less populated campus mean more work to repair, replace, or refresh is done in a few short weeks to welcome new and returning students back to campus in August.

Summer construction projects are full speed ahead at RIT, including numerous improvements to greet students in August, such as new roofing, air conditioning, and refreshes in residence halls.

Construction projects continue on the RIT campus this summer, including major work on residence halls.

In its third, and most ambitious year of a five-year plan, this summer’s residence hall renovations include masonry repairs on Kate Gleason Hall and Residence Halls A , B, and C ; Eugene Colby Hall , Helen Fish Hall and Fredricka Douglass Sprague Perry Hall will be getting new roofs; refreshes and fire alarm work will be done in Colby Hall and Gleason Hall; and Sol Heumann Hall will be getting new air conditioning.

In addition, Frances Baker Hall and Residence Halls A, B and C will be getting new room doors and card access.

“A lot of work is going to happen in a very short amount of time,” said John Moore , associate vice president for Facilities Management Services at RIT. “We will try to be completed by Aug. 9 so the move-in is flawless. That’s the highest priority we have, so move-in can be awesome.”

Although most students won’t be on campus over the summer, the residence halls will be occupied periodically by visitors, including participants in the Genius Olympiad.

“We still have our annual cleaning of all the rooms and need to make way for these summer guests,” Moore said. “There’s so much activity over there that the timing of being ready is super critical. FMS has a lot of people working every day to make sure all of this can get done, and get done in time. We’ve partnered with Residence Life and RIT Housing to make sure we haven’t missed anything. We’ve been planning this for months.”

Roofers are seen making improvements on campus apartment housing.

Construction projects continue on the RIT campus this summer, including new roofs on some apartments in University Commons.

Additional work is being done in other housing areas, including roof replacements this summer and over the next three summers in University Commons ; some units will receive kitchen and bathroom renovations; air conditioning is being installed over two years in Perkins Green apartments; and some foundation repairs, kitchen replacements and shower renovations are being done on a few Riverknoll apartments.

Other summer projects include:

Frank Ritter Ice Arena , which was used as a temporary storage and study area in recent years, will now be converted to its new use: a state-of-the-art indoor training facility available for all 25 intercollegiate athletic teams. Artificial turf will be installed inside the former ice arena this summer. The project is expected to be completed this fall.

George H. Clark Gymnasium : The original floor, which is 50 years old, is being replaced and is expected to be completed by the first week of August.

Gannett Hall , Gosnell Hall , and Booth Hall : Projects are underway to add air conditioning to the remaining areas not cooled. These projects will be completed over the next two summers. This work includes replacement of air handling equipment, replacement of duct work above ceilings, and other work that cannot be competed when classes are in session.

Student Innovation Hall : Renovations will be made to the first floor to create space for the RIT Service Center , Information and Technology Services , and Institutional Research to move there to make space for a home for the School of Performing Arts on the first floor of George Eastman Hall , possibly in 2026.

And work continues on three large projects on campus:

Music performance theater : The theater, which broke ground in September, will feature a 750-seat theater primarily to be used for musical theater productions. It will have two balconies and a historic pipe organ as its centerpiece. The estimated completion is December 2025, and like other venues on campus, it will be available for public use.

Construction work is being peformed on the performabce theatre.

Major construction projects, such as the music performance theater, continue this summer on the RIT campus, as well as additional projects throughout campus.

Tiger Stadium : The official groundbreaking of the new Tiger Stadium was held in April. The $30 million, 38,828-square-foot facility will provide a state-of-the-art modern home for the men’s and women’s lacrosse and men’s and women’s soccer programs. The facility will seat 1,180, with additional capacity in the hospitality room, along with standing room. Amenities for the new stadium include team locker rooms; a training room with two large hot and cold tubs, taping tables, and exam tables; media suite; concession area; hospitality room with glass viewing wall; and an outdoor concourse.

It is expected to be completed in the fall of 2025.

Research building : Work continues on a new research building on the west side of campus. The building will be the host to several new research spaces for science, engineering, and technology. The building is expected to be open in late fall of 2024, with research beginning in the spring of 2025.

“These are big projects, and very important for the university,” Moore said. “The theater is a strategic project and will be the crown jewel for our Performing Arts program. The stadium will be a strategic initiative for recruiting athletes and certainly will add impressiveness to the campus. And we’re already recruiting high-level researchers to come to RIT to be part of our new research building.”

No major roadwork is expected on campus this summer, although some minor repairs will be made to parking lots and roadways, Moore said.

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Whether you prefer working on religious controversial topics or philosophy of religion essay topics, we have listed the best 50 ideas to get you started. Check them and pick them as they are or tweak them to fit your preferred format. Christian and economics. Religion and homosexuality. Black churches.
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Religion Systems Topics. The role of ritual in establishing and maintaining religious systems. Comparative analysis of monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The impact of colonialism on indigenous religious systems. The evolution of religious systems in response to modernity and secularism.
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2 List of 70 Religion Topics to Write About. 2.1 Christian Research Paper Topics. 2.2 Islam Research Topics. 2.3 Siddhartha Essay Topics. 2.4 Buddhism Essay Topics. 2.5 Hinduism Research Paper Topics. 2.6 Judaism Religion. 2.7 Theology Research Paper Topics. Exploring the realm of religion opens a multitude of avenues for scholarly inquiry.
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Analyze the societal roles of religion in different cultures and societies, examining how different religions interact with and influence social structures, norms, and values. Potential sources: Sociological studies on religion, case studies, historical accounts. 8. Comparative Study of Religious Reform Movements.
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100 Philosophy of Religion Research Paper Topics. In the vast panorama of human inquiry, the philosophy of religion holds a unique and seminal place. It sits at the crossroads of existential questioning and spiritual exploration, offering a deep reservoir of topics for those seeking to delve into the nature of divinity, humanity, and the universe.
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203 Informative Religious Research Paper Topics For A+ Grades. Religion is the way people deal with the ultimate concerns of their lives and fate after death. Hence, people in different religions believe in a supernatural, powerful being; God. Who is all-powerful, sacred, and divine. Some religions even believe in certain spirits.
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The list of topics below provides a focused thematic and exploratory approach that may be used for world religion research dissertation purposes. Topic 1: Increasing Islamophobia in the Western Countries, Its Causes and Possible Remedies. Topic 2: Prevention of blasphemy and its Role in Global Peace.
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Religion, Theology and Philosophy Dissertation Topics

Introduction

2022 Religion, Theology and Philosophy Research Topics

The Role of Feminist Religious Movements in Promoting Gender Equality- A Feminist Critique of Christianity and Islam on Lacking Gender Equality

Who Does it Better? Western vs Eastern Philosophy in Defining the Role of Genders in Society- An Analysis Through a Plutonic Lens

Does God Promote Wars? The Role of Religion in the World Wars: A Critique of Richard Dawkins

Does Power Corrupt Religion? The Role of State in Using Religious Actors for its Political Motives- A Case of the US and Al Qaeda

Covid-19 Religion, Theology and Philosophy Research Topics

Indian religious politics during the Coronavirus pandemic

Theology and Coronavirus crisis

Philosophy, science, and religion during Coronavirus

World Religions Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: Increasing Islamophobia in the Western Countries, Its Causes and Possible Remedies

Topic 2: Prevention of blasphemy and its Role in Global Peace

Topic 3: Religious Violence and its Association with Religious Intolerance

Topic 4: The notion of Atheism in the modern world. A critical analysis

Topic 5: An analysis of belief and culture of African Christians in Diaspora.

Topic 6: The evolution of religious beliefs in India posts 20th century: A critical analysis.

Topic 7: The inherent belief of all religions lies in following the teachings prescribed by a higher authority. Discuss.

Topic 8: Religious diversity and terrorism: An empirical analysis.

Topic 9: A Comparative study between Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity

Topic 10: Why Islam is the Fastest Growing Religion in the World?

History and Religion Dissertation Topics

Topic 11: The comparative study between ancient Judaism and Hinduism

Topic 12: How the Renaissance altered Christian religion and beliefs during the 15th and 16th Century Europe

Topic 13: Was Christ really crucified? A critical analysis of the contradictory evidence found in Christian and Islam

Topic 14: Illicit affairs between Monks and Nuns in Christian Monasticism, a myth or a reality?

Topic 15: Historical account of the destruction of Jerusalem and Jewish exile by King Nebuchadnezzar

Topic 16: Islam: The religious foundations and evolution through the 7th century into the modern world.

Topic 17: The life of Adolf Hitler: impact of religious doctrine and belief.

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Religion and the Contemporary World Dissertation Topics

Topic 18: Islam subjugate or uplift women: A critical analysis

Topic 19: Religion is redundant in today's contemporary world.

Topic 20: Religions and faith communities can be a source of social stability and progress in today’s contemporary world.