These are the topics available to you for your research paper:
Homosexuality in Christianity
Traditionally, it has been held that Christianity and homosexuality are incongruent. Yet, recent theological study has shed new light on the debate, with some religious academics even suggesting that, at best, the Bible is neutral on the subject of homosexuality. With anti-gay campaigns having become a major tenant of some churches’ philosophies and outreach, what are the implications of new ways of looking at homosexuality and faith? Likewise, what are some churches doing to actively promote a gay-friendly agenda? Analyze the current debate on homosexuality in Christianity, including evidence for and against its acceptance in the church.
Evolution vs. Creationism
For a period starting in 2002, students in Cobb County, Georgia had the following sticker placed inside their science books: "This textbook contains material on evolution. Evolution is a theory, not a fact, regarding the origin of living things. This material should be approached with an open mind, studied carefully, and critically considered." While the sticker was eventually dropped, it highlights just one facet of the long battle between Christians and the scientific community, a battle that rages even as American students’ science scores falter. Evaluate the current state of the evolution vs. creationism debate, including how have tactics changed in light of Intelligent Design?
The Power of Prayer
Some people say that prayer can have powerful effects on the human mind and body. While these people suggest that prayer can cure everything from addiction to cancer, others argue that prayer is not scientifically sound and has only a placebo effect. Does prayer actually have the power to make a difference in people’s overall health and wellbeing? Investigate the alleged power of prayer, including scientific research to support or refute its claims to heal.
The Search for New Faiths
Increasingly, traditional Western religions, such as Christianity, have been marginalized or replaced in our society as growing numbers of Americans turn to “alternative” faiths. As more Americans reject traditional dogma, what might our country’s future spiritual landscape look like? Examine two “alternative” belief systems that Americans are embracing, and consider what is causing this shift from traditional religions to new faiths.
Death in America
The attacks of September 11th highlighted the fact that, as a nation, America has no ritualized ways to deal with death. While other cultures engage in traditional, and sometimes elaborate, ceremonies to mark death, Americans are often encouraged to “get on” with their lives relatively soon after a death. Likewise, American employers on average allow for just three days off with pay for bereavement. Examine how, as a society, Americans handle death, including how we might benefit (civically, spiritually, etc) from new approaches to mortality.
Fundamentalism
After the attacks of September 11th, religious fundamentalists came under a harsh spotlight. American focus has largely been on Islamic fundamentalists, though this country has been rocked violence from Christian fundamentalists for a number of years, including militias and bombings of abortion clinics. While fundamentalism does not necessarily equate violence, it does often ask that followers adhere to a sometimes strict and unorthodox code. Examine the allure of fundamentalism, including its rise in this country and around the world.
The End of Days
Apocalyptic predictions, forecasting humanity’s end days, date back centuries. In fact, many ancient civilizations had an almost obsessive fixation on how and when the world would end. In modern times, people still seek to know the secrets of our doomsday. Recently, new fixations with our own “end of days” have manifested themselves in everything from Hollywood blockbusters to cults. Discuss the current “end of days” phenomenon, including why it appeals to certain segments of society.
Women in the Church
Churches around the world have struggled with ways in which to include, or exclude, their female followers. In some cases, religious groups have adapted to the changing role of women in society and have granted women more authority in the church. Still others have taken the opposite approach; trying to act as a constant in an ever-changing world, these faiths argue that women's roles should remain unchanged. Compare and contrast the role of women in two faiths, and investigate how these roles have changed throughout their histories.
Religion vs. Art
Many artists contend that their roles in society are those of agitators to the status quo, including the religious establishment. Traditionally, art has provoked the faithful as much as it has praised them. Still, since World War II, artists have made some of their boldest swipes at religion in increasingly hostile and daring exhibits. Compare and contrast two pivotal clashes between art and religion--one classical era, one modern era—and examine how those incidents affected the overall relationship between the two communities.
Choose Your Own Topic
Write a prompt, on a spirituality-themed topic, of your own. Model your prompt on those above and submit it to me via email by Sunday, September 14th at midnight.
If you are not writing your own, have your choice ready by our class meeting on Tuesday, September 16th.
