INTS 334 Religion and Politics

This course examines why we are witnessing a de-secularization in world politics today, how religious movements differ and converge, and how states and societies respond to fundamentalism. Students explore the full spectrum of religious politics from non-violent human rights advocacy to religiously motivated violence, and their influence on social institutions, governance, and globalization. Through theoretical and empirical analysis, paired with case studies ranging from Iran to China, Brazil to Malaysia, and Turkey to India, students develop critical skills to understand how religion intersects with individual behavior, societal movements, state policy, and international relations. By the end of the course, students gain a nuanced perspective on the diversity of religion and politics and their profound impact on the contemporary world.