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.
Center for the Study of Religion and Conflict
PO Box 870802, Tempe AZ 85287.0802
Phone: 480.965.7187, Fax: 480.965.9611, csrc@asu.edu
Physical Location: West Hall, Room 130