Religion Program

Chairperson: E. Pearson

Philosophy Faculty: J. Butler, R. Hoag, and E. Pearson

Religion Faculty: J. Pool, J. Richey, D. Smith, R. Suder, M. Tooley, and A. Velez de Cea

The Department of Philosophy and Religion offers courses and programs in each of the distinct, but related, disciplines of Philosophy and of Religion. In both disciplines, the Department provides opportunities to explore diverse philosophic and religious points of view, to develop abilities to reflect critically and constructively on a wide variety of important questions, and to cultivate abilities to communicate well through constructive engagement with others’ ideas and ways of thinking. Students are encouraged to develop their own intelligence and capacities for careful thought in addressing texts and topics both historical and contemporary.

The academic study of Religion at Berea College provides opportunities to explore both the meaning and structure of religion, to develop an empathetic perspective on at least one major religious tradition, and to engage questions relating to important aspects of human experience, culture, and ideas. Courses in Religion provide opportunities to understand various dimensions of Christianity and other major religions of the world, including sacred texts, practices, doctrines, institutions, experiences, and ways of living.

The Religion curriculum, centered in the liberal arts, provides a major and minor for students interested in a variety of careers or vocations, offers non-majors introductory courses to explore the character of religion in all its diversity, and complements studies in other fields. Students in Religion have successfully pursued further graduate study, entered the ministry, or addressed social issues through law and other means.

Major and Minor

• B.A. Degree with a Major in Religion
• Minor in Religion

Philosophy and Religion

Programs

• Philosophy Program
• Religion Program

Courses

• Philosophy Courses
• Religion Courses