THL334 Interfaith Dialogue (8)

In the context of increasing religious plurality in Australia, this subject introduces students to the principles and practice of interfaith dialogue. It examines how such dialogue may, from a Christian perspective, assist with the building of acceptance and understanding of religious traditions other than Christianity. To promote the capacity of students to engage in interfaith dialogue, the subject examines the history, beliefs, practices and thought of one or more of the following religious traditions: Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism. It also explores challenges to Christian theology and practice that emerge from interfaith dialogue.

Availability

* Offering has a residential school. Please view following information for further details.

Session 1 (30)
Online *
Canberra Campus
Session 3 (90)
On Campus
United Theological College

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: THL334. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Theology

Assumed Knowledge

Students are recommended to have prior knowlege equivalent to or studied THL111, THL113 and THL215.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to demonstrate knowledge of the history and impact of religious diversity in Australia and its relevance for Christian belief and practice in contemporary society;
  • be able to demonstrate critical appreciation of the principles of interfaith dialogue and practice;
  • be able to discuss the relationship between Christian theology and the practice of interfaith dialogue;
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of the history, beliefs, practices and thought of one or more of the following religious traditions: Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism;
  • be able to demonstrate the capacity to engage in interfaith dialogue; and
  • be able to demonstrate self-guided learning, including advanced research, writing and communication skills.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Religious pluralism in Australia: mapping the religious landscape
  • The historic relation between Christianity and other religious traditions in Australian society
  • The principles of interfaith dialogue
  • Theologies and models of interfaith dialogue: exploring the relationship between theology and practice
  • The history, beliefs, practices and thought of one or more of the following religious traditions: Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism
  • Interfaith dialogue in practice
  • Challenges to Christian faith and practice emerging from interfaith dialogue
  • Contextual issues impacting on interfaith dialogue, for example, feminist theory and practice, postcolonialism, racism

Residential School

This subject contains a 4 day Compulsory Residential School.

This residential school provides students with the opportunity of engaging with the subject matter in an intensive manner in a group setting.

Activitives include lectures, tutorial presentations, library research, experience in interfaith dialogue, and visits to sites of religious significance such as a mosque and a synagogue.

Special Resources

Online students who enrol in this subject are required to travel to attend the compulsory residential school in Canberra and also to arrange their own accommodation and meals.

Contact

For further information about courses and subjects outlined in the CSU handbook please contact:

Current students

Future students

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: July 2019. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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