Syllabus

African Studies: Religion and Politics in African societies

Code
AS2003
Points
9 Credits
Level
First Cycle Level 2
School
School of Culture and Society
Subject field
African Studies (UVX)
Group of Subjects
Other Interdisciplinary Studies
Disciplinary Domain
Humanities, 100%
This course can be included in the following main field(s) of study
African Studies1
Progression indicator within (each) main field of study
1G2F
Approved
Approved, 10 December 2014.
This syllabus is valid from 10 December 2014.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this course, the student should be able to:
  • demonstrate knowledge and understanding of political, social and economic features of African societies with particular reference to the interplay between religion and politics in Africa in the 1800s and 1900s
  • analyse the emergence, role and importance of different religions in various African societies from an interdisciplinary perspective.

Course Content

This course includes an introduction to the religious landscape of Africa. The various strands of Christianity, Islam and the basic tenets of African and non-Western religions are identified and studied in the context of the economic, political and social environment where they appeared and are present. The course examines more closely broad questions like the following: How does religion affect the political orientation of a society? How are religious differences and conflicts confronted and resolved? What role do religions play in the organisation of social, political and economic life? The course also focuses on the interaction between established religion and new religious systems and movements.

Assessment

Students are assessed through active participation in seminars, the presentation of research reviews and written work.

Forms of Study

The course is taught in the form of lectures and seminars. It uses interdisciplinary approaches and methods to describe and analyse the role of religion and politics in African societies. All teaching is in English.

Grades

The Swedish grades A–F.

Prerequisites

  • 60 credits in the field of Humanities, Social Sciences or Education and English 6. Exemption from Swedish can be given.

Other Information

Replaces HI2003.