Department of Psychology, Unit Catalogue 2006/07

PS30059 The cultures of belief 1

Credits: 3

Level: Honours

Semester: 2

Assessment: ES100

Requisites:

While taking this unit you must take PS30060 and in taking this unit you cannot take PS50046

Aims: This unit provides an historical exposition of the changing relationship between major religious traditions and western science, and a critical discussion of theses about the ways in which religion and science interact.
Learning Outcomes:
Students will be expected to demonstrate, through written assignments and seminar discussion, that they have mastered the arguments of at least two main authors or schools and can make a critical appraisal of these arguments.
Skills:

* Recognises the inherent variability and diversity of psychological functioning and its significance. (T/F A)
* Can competently initiate, design, conduct and report an empirically-based research project under appropriate supervision, and can recognise its theoretical, practical and methodological implications and limitations. (T/F A)
* To develop sensitivity to the values and interests of others. (T/F A)
* Can communicate ideas and research findings both effectively and fluently by written, oral and visual means. (T/F A)
* Can solve problems by clarifying questions, considering alternative solutions and evaluating outcomes. (T/F A)
* Is sensitive to and can react appropriately to contextual and interpersonal factors in groups and teams. (T/F A)
* Can undertake self-directed study and project management in order to meet desired objectives. (T/F A)
Content:
Attention will be given to historical and philosophical views of the nature of religion and of science, theses about their interaction (e.g., conflict, independence, interdependence); each of the main theses will be examined in the light of recent historical and critical studies. The application by popular science writers of core scientific theories to religious and metaphysical themes is also explored.

University | Catalogues for 2006/07