Religions in Global Politics (L2075A)

30 credits, Level 6

Autumn teaching

Too often today religion seem to be at the centre of a global geopolitical scenario of insecurity. Is this, however, a fair picture? How should we understand the resurgence of religions in global politics beyond the news headlines?

In this module, drawing on a mix of theories and case-studies, we will challenge the reading of religion as the ultimate threat to international stability. You will engage with the debate over secularism and understand how policymakers are responding to this new role of religion by discussing the implications for:

  • foreign policy
  • development
  • human rights
  • peacebuilding.

Teaching

100%: Seminar

Assessment

30%: Coursework (Essay, Group presentation)
70%: Written assessment (Essay)

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 300 hours of work. This breaks down into about 30 hours of contact time and about 270 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.