2019-2020 BSC Catalog

228 ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
the academic study of religion. This course is a critical inquiry into the origins and
evolution of the concept of religion and its use as category in the study of the human
experience. This inquiry is carried out by examining the work of the major theorists of
religion from Marx and Freud to Eliade and Geertz. Examination of these theorists
highlights the various methodological approaches to the study of religion. Emphasis will
be placed on the evolution of new approaches to the study of religion under the
conditions of postmodernity.
RE 375 Gender and the Hebrew Bible (1)
An exploration of the Hebrew Bible through the lens of gender theory. On a theoretical
level, students develop the skills to read and critique primary and secondary readings
according to their presuppositions and ideological commitments concerning gender.
Additionally, the course equips students with a more developed understanding of the
complexity of this sacred text that frequently informs modern conceptions of gender
roles. A Leadership Studies designated course. Prerequisite: at least one unit in RE.
RE 390 Violence and the Bible (1)
An exploration of the violent narratives, imagery, symbolism, and rhetoric of the Bible.
In addition to examining the way biblical texts have been used to legitimate and authorize
violent acts in the world, a significant focus of this course is how violence functions
within the textual world of the Bible. Attention is given to possible models of
interpretation of and ethical responses to the violent texts of the Bible. Prerequisite: at
least one unit in RE.
RE 450 Religion and Politics in America (1)
An exploration of the relationship between religion and politics in America. Emphasis is
placed on the role of religion in American culture and how religion affects politics. (Also
listed as HON 450 and PS 450.)
RE 470 Senior Seminar in Religion (1)
The senior capstone seminar in which senior religion majors write a significant research
paper. The topic for the paper is decided by the student in consultation with the
instructor. This course is required for all religion majors during the second term of
their senior year. Students will present their final projects in a senior conference.
Instructor consent required.
SBS - Social and Behavioral Sciences
SBS 204 QA Survey Data Analysis and Statistics (1)
An examination of theory and practice in formulating hypotheses and evaluating them by
analyzing secondary sources of data with statistical analysis software. Emphasis is placed
on data management, data analysis, the use of appropriate statistics, and the interpretation
of statistical output. Though intended as a prerequisite for SBS 304, this course can help
any student develop analytical skills. Laboratory required. A Quantitative Analysis
designated course. Fall.
Birmingham-Southern College Catalog 2019-2020