SOC120 Being Muslim in the 21st Century

Course Description:

This course examines how Islam and Muslims engage with and respond to contemporary issues in a global context. Through a multidisciplinary approach, and based on Islamic teachings, principles and values, the course explores the ways in which Muslim communities and scholars are navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by a range of complex contemporary issues, such as globalization and Muslim identity, gender relations, atheism and agnosticism, Islamophobia, the LGBT movement, the environment, arts and culture, media, and science. Drawing on a range of academic and Islamic disciplines, including history, political science, sociology, and religious studies, the course provides a comprehensive overview of the key issues facing Muslim communities today. The course will encourage critical thinking and engagement with the challenges and opportunities facing Muslim communities in the modern world.

Course Code: SOC120

Credit hours: 3

Pre-Requisites: None

Learning Objectives:

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Engage with a range of contemporary issues from a variety of perspectives, including historical, cultural, and sociological, and will develop critical thinking skills to analyze complex issues facing Muslim communities in the contemporary world.
• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the diverse historical, cultural, and religious dimensions of Islam and its impact on contemporary global issues.
• Critically analyze contemporary social, political, and economic challenges facing Muslim communities and the broader global society.
• Articulate an appreciation for the different ways that Islamic traditions and practices are interpreted and applied.
• Engage in informed and respectful dialogue about controversial issues related to Islam and its place in contemporary society.
• Conduct independent research on topics related to Islam and contemporary issues and communicate their findings effectively.
• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity, empathy, and open-mindedness towards people of different religious, cultural, and ideological backgrounds.
• Place current issues and debates related to Islam into a historical and contemporary context.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the ways in which Islam and Muslim communities have contributed to the development of global civilization, including science, medicine, art, and philosophy.
• Develop a sense of responsibility and ethical commitment towards promoting interfaith understanding, social justice, and global peace.