Should an "Intro To World Religions" class be required of all high school students?

Question

I mean a class that discusses the basic tenets of each religion.

Answer 1

Absolutely, with no bias in favour of any of the religions.

I do not believe in God, and actually believe religion is dangerous for society. But what is more dangerous for society is ignorance and the intolerance that stems from that ignorance.

It is very clear that a lot of people asking and answering on R&S haven't the slightest idea about religions or other belief systems outside their own personal beliefs.

Answer 2

Sure why not? If you think about it it's a lot like a 'social studies' class.. as all the various religions have different beliefs and customs, knowing a bit about them can make it easier to understand the people, and therefore promote acceptance.

Religion exists to promote relationship with God and with each other, studying various religions, I think, would promote the relationship with each other.

I took a world religion class in college (a few years before I accepted, or even considered accepting, Jesus into my heart) it was a fun class. Of course the fact that it was taught by my philosophy instructor who had given me an A in my philosophy class didn't hurt either. ;)

Answer 3

I think that it would be a great idea - and I wonder if they have American Government/Civics classes anymore?

But the greatest problem would be getting it funded. Religious studies falls under the humanities, and as I am sure you are aware any "creative" classes (like visual arts, music, etc.) are usually the first to be cut during budget crunches. Much more emphasis is placed on and dollars put behind math and science.

Still - it's a good idea, given the diversity of our world and globalization.

Answer 4

I agree with Serf. It should not be required, but it would make an excellent elective. There's a difference between promoting a particular religious viewpoint (which is inappropriate in publicly funded schools) and studying the religious beliefs and cultures of our neighbors. Knowing something about different cultures makes us better neighbors.

Answer 5

heck yes! it wouldn't be in science but comparitive religion would be its own,
education is the key,

im against god in science class but think part of an education should be learning about the different world religions and their histories, especially their histories

kids are smart enough to understand fact from mythology, and i really envision this working in america

Answer 6

No, but I would support it as an elective.

Answer 7

I would have enjoyed that. Heck, I'd enjoy it now!