Magic and Religions

| REL 3075 | Fall 2015 | ONLINE | Erin Weston |

Course Overview

Course explores the concepts of magic, witchcraft, divination, ecstatic states, and the supernatural in a variety of cultural and religious contexts from around the world, including many indigenous traditions. Students will be exposed to diverse cultural beliefs and practices about the supernatural, and will be asked to explore their interrelatedness through a holistic perspective. Additionally, students will construct a multi-perspective analysis of magic and religion, which may include indigenous content, methodologies, and/or analyses. In the readings, videos and course content, activities ask the students to explore relevant contemporary issues such as environmental laws, differing worldviews, legal rights, and validity of utilizing sacred plants for religious ceremonies.