Philosophy of Religion - Iowa Wesleyan College

Philosophy of Religion from Iowa Wesleyan College is a Campus Bachelor Philosophy degree that prepares you for a Liberal Arts career. The goal of the Department of Religion and Philosophy is to prepare students to succeed in our changing global environment through the study of philosophy or religion. The study of Religion focuses on the connections or ?ligaments? that unite human beings to each other and the world. In its many forms?e.g., sacred stories and scriptures, beliefs, rituals, institutions, ethical instructions, and spiritual disciplines?religion seeks to describe the basic nature of these connections and to restore those connections that have been threatened or broken. Religion is fundamental to the way human beings live, and it shapes human history to this day. Without engaging religious life in a systematic, reflective manner, one cannot understand much of our world. The study of philosophy challenges students to examine their most basic values, beliefs, and practices in light of the issues that human life inevitably raises: What is life about? What is death? Who am I? How should I act? What can guide me through life? As the ?love of wisdom,? philosophy is the attempt to understand what is most significant, relevant, and important for one's life, so that one can act wisely. This pursuit is open and unbounded by nature, so that it can transform every aspect of life. Thus it is an essential part of a liberal arts education. Students completing the program of study in Religion and Philosophy will: identify their basic values as they make decisions about vocation, civic and personal life (valuing) demonstrate an ability to think analytically and multiculturally (critical thinking) practice the self-critical exchange of ideas through effective communication (communicating) evaluate the role of ideas, philosophies of life and religions in the human story in order to interact effectively in multicultural/multireligious contexts (effective social interaction) pursue careers and/or further study in fields as diverse as ministry, law, political science, education, business, the arts, communication, or any other field that requires understanding of and cooperation with people. These preparations are carried out through traditional academic exercises such as lectures, media and guest presentations, large and small group discussions, student-led class segments, team projects, tests, papers, reflective journals as well as through regular and extensive field experience. Persons contemplating church careers or graduate study in seminary or graduate school should consider one of our majors in religion. On the other hand, persons pursuing other careers who want to become effective leaders in their churches, or who want to integrate religion into their work, may want to complete a minor in religion. Philosophy of Religion Major A Philosophy of Religion major integrates texts, methods, and insights from philosophy and religious studies to explore the various dimensions of religious experience and thought. Students develop the skills required to engage religious traditions with both sympathy and critical suspicion. Some primary emphases are comparative religions, ethics, and historical awareness. View more details on Iowa Wesleyan College . Ask your questions and apply online for this program or find other related Philosophy courses.