We have all heard the refrain not to talk about religion in polite company, lest someone take offense or conflict ensue. This admonition often carries over into academic settings, contributing to what might be called ‘a culture of avoidance’ when it comes to discussing important religious issues. This development is particularly worrisome for institutions committed to higher learning, where academic freedom should be cherished and exercised vigorously. This trend bodes ill for vibrant intellectual exchanges in the classroom and on campus, at a time when religious diversity is growing and religion is increasingly politicized, both in the United States and abroad.

The Center for the Study of Religion and Conflict (CSRC) is addressing this concern at ASU by promoting and facilitating academic discussions of religion and religious conflict. Specifically, this program will: 1) initiate an interdisciplinary faculty seminar to support professors whose teaching engages sensitive religious issues; 2) create an innovative certificate program in religion and conflict for undergraduate students; and 3) develop intellectual and pedagogical models for public engagement of religious ideas and conflicts. In sum, this project seeks to become a national model that will enhance academic freedom by promoting classroom dialogue on contentious religious issues.

The Ford Foundation has selected Arizona State University as one of 27 higher education institutions to receive a grant as part of a national initiative to support projects that promote academic freedom and constructive dialogue on university campuses.

Program Details: Phase Two (2008-2010)

News and Related Links

• Project Team

• Project Goals

• Core Course and Module Development Team
  
  
  Archive: Phase One Program Details
  

• Difficult Dialogues Program Encourages Discussions about Religion at ASU
  
  
• The Center Receives Ford Foundation Grant

• Ford Foundation Awards $100,000 Grant to ASU

• Difficult Dialogues National Website