2. THE ACADEMIC STUDY OF RELIGION

To address the following questions, consider the four approaches to religion described in the introduction to this module: exclusivism, inclusivism, pluralism and empathetic interest in other people.

Which of these four approaches do you take in your everyday life, and why?

Describe a friend, acquaintance, or relative whose approach to religion is different than yours. What approach do they take? Given your different approaches, how would you communicate with them about religion?

If you were to take a college class on religious traditions, do you think the academic study of religion might require you to adjust your approach? Explain your answer.