Theories and Issues in the Study of Religion and Conflict
MPhil Pathway Religion and Conflict Michaelmas Term
Module Coordinator 2023-2024: Dr Justin Meggitt
The Michaelmas term module will begin by introducing students to the critical study of religion and conflict by scrutinising current theoretical debates about the place of religion in a variety of forms of conflict, from genocide to domestic abuse. It will then analyse a series of indicative and emblematic case studies that are scriptural, historical, and contemporary in character. These will involve looking in depth at the the relationship of scripture to violence, 'religious tolerance' in the Ottoman empire, and recent examples of religiously inspired terrorism. These case studies will be used to critically assess claims about how religion is implicated in conflict, and its role in encouraging and legitimising violence, as well as enabling peace.
Four sessions will cover the following subjects:
1. Theories of Religion and Conflict
2. Contemporary Case Study: Terrorism
3. Historical Case Study:'Religious Tolerance' in the Ottoman Empire
4. Scriptural Case Study: Scripture and Violence