Cognitive Science 0308 - Evolution, Islam, Modernity

This seminar course will look at the way Muslims across the globe are negotiating the relationship between Islam and modern science. We will, in particular, focus on the way evolutionary biology is received in various parts of the Muslim world and what can that tell us about the interaction between culture, politics, religion, and science. Students will be expected to do research as part of the class and present their findings at the end of the semester. Countries to be discussed in the class include, but are not limited to, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan, Turkey and the Muslim diaspora in Europe and in the United States. Prerequisite: One class in Middle Eastern history or Middle East sociology, or Islam.

Multiple Cultural Perspectives Writing and Research In this course, students are expected to spend at least six to eight hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time. This time includes reading, writing, research.