R434 America's Minority Religions (3 Cr.) - Stein TR 2:30-3:45 WH 008

In this course we will examine four minority religious traditions that
have succeeded remarkably in the United States although all four have
experienced sustained hostility. The four-- Mormonism, Christian Science,
Pentecostalism, and the Jehovah's Witnesses--have all been regarded as on
the "margin" or outside the religious and cultural mainstream in America.
Yet all in different ways have taken advantage of the American context and
have contributed to the rich religious diversity within our nation.
Attention will be paid to the historical development, the beliefs and
practices, and the present situation and future prospects of each of these
traditions. This class also provides an opportunity to reflect more
broadly on the situation of outsider religious communities in America. The
course will include field trips to local communities. Class activities
will alternate between lectures and discussions. Evaluation will be based
on participation, one exam, a field project, and a research paper.  Meets
with R532 and AMST G620.