Quote:
Originally Posted by Sliver
We expect psychologists to study psychology so they can ultimately apply their knowledge in the real world to help people. We expect the same of sociologists. Volcanologists apply what they learn to save lives. In almost every field of study in which the subject of the study has a tangible affect on the planet, animals or people, scholars in those vocations try to use their knowledge to affect positive change. I don't see that happening in Religious Studies and I think that's because we are holding the department to too low a standard. I want to see something practical come out of it.
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That's coming from the assumption that religion is harmful and that it must be studied to protect society from it as a practical benefit.
The way religious studies faculties operate is based on developing the understanding and framework of specific religions so people will learn more about what others believe and so that you can build a discourse around that. You are in the wrong faculty if you are looking for a place to challenge it's impact on modern society.
You'll find more benefit studying Poli Sci and Psychology for what you're looking for as I certainly had plenty of course material based on religious cults, totalitarism, brain-washing, cults of personality, terrorism, social engineering, historical revisionism, separation of Church & State, related debates (abortion, same-sex marriage) etc. which are extremes of the "negative" aspects of religion you are probably seeking to address.
This reminds me of my friend who completed a 4-year English degree and then complained to me about how he didn't learn anything he wanted to learn in it. I asked him why he decided to be an English major and he responded to me that he wanted to learn how to communicate better. I told him he took the wrong degree and should have taken Communications instead (not that I think that's a very valuable or useful degree either but the point stands). He walked away in despair. This is the sort of mix-up you are having here.