Part I. An introduction to a range of beliefs about the religious dimension of life, and to theories about the origin and functions of those beliefs. [Text Intro + Chs.1-3 + Genesis 1-3 + primary source readings.]

Part II.  An analysis of what these beliefs indicate about our common human condition. [Chs. 4-7 + the Buddha's Sermon at Benares + readings] 

Part III.  Descriptions of various ways in which religious traditions guide and influence human behavior and consciousness.  This includes not just beliefs but forms of community, texts and interpretations, moral standards and ideals, symbols and rituals. [Chs. 8-11 + Mark's Gospel  + readings] 

Part IV.  An analysis of the modern situation of religions in the context of science, skepticism, and secularity, as well as cross-cultural interactions.  [Chs. 12-14 + Tribble on Gen. 1-3 + readings] 

Course Objectives: At the end of the course you should have achieved the following:           
    1.  to know relevant information about the history of major forms of religion, with an emphasis on Catholic contributions. 
    2.  to be familiar with common analyses and criticisms of religion today. 
    3.  to have experience in comparing and contrasting major aspects of religion. 
    4.  to be able to recognize & evaluate human interests, needs, & contributions in religion. 
    5.  to be familiar with some primary texts relevant to religious studies.
    6.  to have improved skills in analysis and writing.
    7.  to practice using information and skills gained from #1 through #6 in order to make informed choices about religion in your own life and to understand it better in the lives of others. 

Texts: Michael Horace Barnes, In the Presence of Mystery, 2003; plus Humanities Base Common Readings; plus selections from various primary sources. The readings are available online through the link above at the left:  Portal to Readings, or directly at:  http://academic.udayton.edu/michaelbarnes/103-W05/103-index.htm

Exams: one at the end of each of the four parts of the course (see the calendar)
Because of large enrollment for this Spring semester, these will be mainly multiple choice. Each exam is worth a total of 100 points. 
Four Common Readings reports (see syllabus) are worth up to 10 points each, 20 points for the one on Mark’s Gospel [50 points possible].
For section 14:  Quizzes: 8, worth up to 10 points each (the 5 best will be counted, for another 50 points]
For section H2:  a five-page analysis of some source concerning religion (to be discussed in class) worth up to 50 points.
Total possible for the course: 500 points. 
   Due just prior to Easter break.
Grades: based on 500:   93% = A,  92-90% = A- , 87% = B+,  83-86 = B, etc. (D = 60-69. 59% or less = F.).
(Class participation is not required, but relevant helpful contributions will have an influence on borderline grades.)

Specific Policies:
If you have special needs or disabilities, be sure to inform the teacher.
Late exams: except in unusual circumstances all exams should be taken at the assigned time. If you miss one, email me as soon as possible, with a clear indication on the "subject" line this is about a Rel 103 exam (so I do not inadvertently erase it). 
Final exam: university policy AND department policy require finals to be taken during finals week, not in advance (please tell your parents not to schedule you for a vacation then).
Missed classes: you are responsible for everything that takes place in class, including any announced change in exam or other dates. (Class attendance is required for first year students, with a maximum of 6 absences total during the whole semester allowed for MWF classes. Hoard your allowed absences; you may need them.)
Regardless of your year, you are expected to attend classes quite regularly.  Making good efforts can count towards your grade.
Plagiarism: check the section in the Student Handbook on this; make sure you understand what counts as plagiarism and what the penalties may be.  https://bulletin.udayton.edu/content.ud?v=28&p=3143&c=3201

The Honor Pledge: I understand that as a student of the University of Dayton, I am a member of our academic and social community. I recognize the importance of my education and the value of experiencing life in such an integrated community. I believe that the value of my education and degree is critically dependent upon the academic integrity of the university community, and so in order to maintain our academic integrity, I pledge to
- complete all assignments and examinations by the guidelines given to me by my instructors
- avoid plagiarism and any other form of misrepresenting someone else's work as my own
- adhere to the Standards of Conduct as outlined in the Academic Honor Code.
In doing this, I hold myself and my community to a high standard of excellence.