Religious Studies & Philosophy Department, Avila University

ABOUT
The historic tradition of the liberal arts is to enrich learners with a heightened sense of responsibility and autonomy. The interdisciplinary Religious Studies & Philosophy Major trains students to be critical and independent in their thinking as well as centered on larger human purposes for which we work and interact with others. In an age overwhelmingly centered on technological progress, efficient and convenient outcomes, and material satisfaction of desires, focusing on the individual's spiritual and intellectual life provides a foundation and meaningful context for your life in our global community.

DEPARTMENT NEWS

Search for Tenure-Track Position in Philosophy, Fall 2013
Given that Dr. Ken Parsons will be transitioning to his new position as Director for the Center of Global Studies & Social Justice, we are looking for a new colleague to chair the department and teach philosophy courses here at Avila. See the full position announcement and details here.

Fall 2012-Spring 2013: New or Revised RS-PL course offerings
We have new or revised courses being offered for the first time during the Fall and Spring semesters:

PL/IS 344: Music & Politics (Parsons & Bryson)
Travel to Berlin, Germany
RS/IS 368 Christianity in Film (Dorrough Smith & Esquibel)
RS/IS 360: Issues in Social Justice (Parsons & Origanti)
Travel to India

Interdisciplinary Major in Religious Studies & Philosophy
Students can now concentrate in Philosophy or Religious Studies within an interdisciplinary Religious Studies & Philosophy major. For details on the exciting Senior Capstone and Capstone experience possibilities, click here.

RESEARCH AND ACTIVITIES

Forthcoming Manuscript Publication
Congratulations to Dr. Leslie Dorrough Smith who recently secured a contract with Oxford University Press for her new book entitled Righteous Rhetoric: Concerned Women for America and the Sexual Politics of the New Religious Right.

Christian Peacemakers in Palestine/Israel
Dr. Carol Coburn, Professor of Religious Studies, is one of two faculty from Avila who participated in CPT work in the occupied territories of Palestine. See more on the nonviolent peacemaking activities they engaged in here.

Review of "God's Right Hand"
Dr. Carol Coburn has a timely piece on religion and politics in the publication America. Click here to read.