The above course carries AH distribution. Meets a Critical Issues in
the major and minor.

This course examines the place of animals in religious worldviews.
With attention to a variety of world religions, the course considers
ethical guidelines for use, treatment, and valuation of animals,
both domestic and wild (the role of animals in religious ritual,
literature, art and film; religious classification of certain
animals as sacred or forbidden; religious perspectives on “natural”
violence and animal suffering; use of animals as food, for labor,
and in research, etc). We will also pay attention to cultural and
scientific shifts in the interpretation of the boundary between
humans and other animals, and the role religions have played in
promoting or resisting animal advocacy movements, and environmental
movements more generally. Requirements will involve short writing
assignments and essay exams, regular class attendance and active
participation in class discussions.