J 340C Journalism and Religion

Description and Objectives

Journalists have personal reasons for thinking about religious questions, but we cover religion professionally because of its undeniable role in shaping world and community events. Religious beliefs figure prominently in presidential elections, poverty-fighting, international terrorism and debates on education. Journalists often cover such topics superficially, but if we understand the role of religion we can delve much deeper.

A generation ago some analysts thought religion would become less important as societies progressed economically and technologically. Instead, religion has become increasingly important as those whose physical needs are satisfied ask ultimate questions of meaning. To go beyond the superficial, journalists need some knowledge of the world’s major faiths both in their historical and contemporary contexts.

In this course, you will learn the basics of Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam and Christianity by reading the work of both scholars and novelists. You will also try your hand at writing about religion by visiting houses of worship, interviewing leaders and lay people, and producing stories. You should come away from this course knowing how seriously many people throughout the world take this aspect of life, and how to report it well.

Grading System

8 Reading Response Papers: 40%

2 Stories (10% each): 20%

3 Tests (10% each): 30%

Attendance: 10%

Prerequisites

A score of 45 or better on the Grammar, Spelling, Punctuation (GSP) test, a score of 29 or better on the Word Processing (WP) test, and admission to a Journalism Upper Division sequence.

Special Components

This course contains a substantial writing component and fulfills part of the basic education requirement in writing.

This course fulfills the Communication and Culture requirement.