Meets with AMST G620.  The aim of this course is to examine some aspects of
American worldview, especially systems and traditions that have emerged as
part of the unofficial culture without the direct benefit of sponsorship
through organized religious institutions (or sometimes in response to or
alongside of such institutions).  Readings will include studies from the
field of folklore as well as other disciplines.  Our focus will be upon
contemporary American thought and practices that incorporate popular or
traditional systems of belief and perspectives on spirituality, human
nature, and cosmology.

Requirements of the course will include some field-based assignments as well
as a major project or paper.  Topics of research may range from traditional
folk beliefs to popular spirituality to the relationship between folk belief
and institutional religion.  The course is cross-listed in American Studies.