This course considers the nexus between government and religion in Islam, Judaism and Christianity and the historic relationship among these three religions in the political realm. We will study the influence of religion on both domestic and foreign policy in selected Middle Eastern countries, the role of religion in fueling conflicts, the phenomenon of religious fundamentalism, the consequences for women and the implications for US policy towards the region. The course is designed for upper level students and is an accelerated version of the similarly titled freshman seminar. No prior background knowledge of religious or Middle East studies is required. Previous freshman seminar (79-152) students are ineligible.
