110-549 Religious Freedom in Asia

Admission to the Master of Arts (Asian Societies) or Master of International Politics, or permission of the subject coordinator.

The role of religion in Asian societies has come to international prominence, given recent conflicts in Indonesia. Drawing on theological, historical and legal sources, this subject will examine the relationships between religion and human rights in Asian countries, the role of religion in social change and civil unrest, and the influence of religion on cross-national interactions. Students will thus take a multidisciplinary approach to the topic, using background studies and case analysis. The following will be discussed: belief systems; religious freedom and human rights; religion and law, both constitutional and statutory; religion and the nation-state; interaction between religion and state, with the issue of conflict between the two spheres; established religions compared with struggles for religious freedom and tolerance. Using case studies, students will discuss further issues, including freedom of choice and the right to propagate faiths; the status of religions in regard to property, taxation, legal implications of religious activities; the influence of religion on freedom of speech, access to education and the media; religion and gender differences, including property rights; religious identity; the rights of minority groups. The course will focus on contemporary situations in Asia and will look at future directions.

• be able to conduct independent research using catalogued sources and bibliographic indexes;

• have developed their ability to think creatively and express their ideas clearly in written communication;

• have developed their skills in verbal communication and oral presentation.

Written work totalling 5000 words.

Materials prepared by the Institute.