OVERVIEW

The discipline of History of Religions, guided by the comparative method, is inherently inclined towards the universality of religious phenomena. Detached from specific value judgments, this field of study serves as a crucial tool for fostering pluralism and promoting the acknowledgment of diversity in the age of globalization. Building upon this methodological framework, the course seeks to explore fundamental concepts related to the study of religions and examine specific case studies.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The aim of the course is the acquisition of adequate methodological, historical and theoretical understanding, and of a heuristic and judgment autonomy. A closely related aim is to promote a correct and mature evaluation of the religious issues of our globalized and interreligious time, as well as orient in the peculiar problems concerning personal and collective life.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Teaching objectives:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of major religions, including their origins, beliefs, practices, and historical developments.
• Analyze and interpret religious symbols, practices, and texts within their specific historical and social contexts.
• Explore the complexities of religious diversity and its implications in ancient and contemporary societies.
• Foster critical thinking skills in approaching the discipline and understanding the role of religions in shaping global societies, politics, and cultures.
• Encourage interdisciplinary approaches in the study of religious phenomena.
• Cultivate the ability to engage in constructive dialogue regarding questions of faith and religious values encountered in local and global cultures.
• Foster independent research skills and the ability to critically analyze and evaluate sources related to the study of religions.

Upon completion of the course, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate a solid knowledge of major religious traditions in their historical development.
• Analyze and interpret religious symbols, practices, and texts, recognizing their significance within specific religious contexts.
• Compare different religious traditions, identifying similarities, differences, and influences among them.
• Exercise critical thinking skills to analyze religious phenomena.
• Recognize and reflect on the impact of religions on political, social, and global issues.
• Utilize interdisciplinary approaches to deepen the understanding of religious phenomena.
• Conduct independent research on topics related to the study of religions, employing appropriate research methods and critically analyzing sources.

Transversal skills:

• Advanced functional literacy skills
• Advanced social skills
• Advanced personal skills
• Planning skills

PREREQUISITES

No prerequisites are required.

TEACHING METHODS

Traditional frontal lectures are complemented by presentations from experts and scholars specialized in specific religious traditions, as well as a guided visit to a religious site. Students have the option of preparing a short written report (also in groups), to be presented during class, on one of the topics covered in the course. Students who choose to complete this activity will be exempt from bringing book B to the exam.

The lectures will be held in person. While attendance is not mandatory, it is recommended.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Contents for students who are taking the 6-CFU course:

Part I: Introduction to the History of Religions

The initial section of the course provides an introduction to the methods and subjects inherent to the field of History of Religions, along with an exploration of its distinctive themes in historical-religious research. Ultimately, it seeks to present a critical and nuanced understanding of the religious phenomenon, both in its inherent nature and within its historical context.

Contents for students who are taking the 9-CFU course:

Part I: Introduction to the History of Religions

The initial section of the course provides an introduction to the methods and subjects inherent to the field of History of Religions, along with an exploration of its distinctive themes in historical-religious research. Ultimately, it seeks to present a critical and nuanced understanding of the religious phenomenon, both in its inherent nature and within its historical context.

Part II: Gandhi’s Religious and Political Vision

The second module aims to explore the figure of Gandhi by questioning what his legacy can offer our time in terms of ethical, religious, and political vision. Starting from his biographical and experiential background, the course will examine his religious thought, moral philosophy, and political outlook—united by the universal scope that makes him one of the key figures of contemporary history.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Bibliography for students who are taking the 6-CFU course:

- G. Filoramo, M. Massenzio, M. Raveri, P. Scarpi, Manuale di storia delle religioni, Laterza 1998, 

      1) pp. 5-137; 161-269 

                       or

      2) pp. 173-269; 291-436 

- G. Filoramo, Religione e religioni, Egea, Milano 2014.

Bibliography for students who are taking the 9-CFU course:

- G. Filoramo, M. Massenzio, M. Raveri, P. Scarpi, Manuale di storia delle religioni, Laterza 1998, 

      1) pp. 5-137; 161-269 

                       or

      2) pp. 173-269; 291-436 

- G. Filoramo, Religione e religioni, Egea, Milano 2014.

- F.C. Manara, Una forza che dà vita. Ricominciare con Gandhi in un'età di terrorismi, Unicopli 2006.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

September, 2025.

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam is oral and evaluates students’ knowledge of the syllabus, including the required readings. Attending students may choose to write and present a short paper in class (individually or in groups). This activity will contribute to the final grade and, for those who complete it, text B will not be required for the exam.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The oral exam assesses the understanding of the course content, the quality, mastery, and confidence in the presentation, as well as the ability for critical thinking and argumentation. For attending students who choose to prepare a written paper (individually or in groups) to be presented during the course, the assessment will take into account the quality of the work, the ability to analyse and critically elaborate the content, as well as the effectiveness of group collaboration where applicable.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Attendance is recommended.

Students who have valid certification of physical or learning disabilities on file with the University and who wish to discuss possible accommodations or other circumstances regarding lectures, coursework and exams, should speak both with the instructor and with Elisabetta Colagrossi (elisabetta.colagrossi@unige.it), the Department's
disability liaison.