Religionswissenschaft and its challenges to the Study of Religions : A theoretical and philosophical study on religion

Abstract:

The purpose of this study is threefold: (1) to give a historical background of the concept of religion; (2) critically examine the challenges in the Study of Religions based on David Thurfjell and his essay Religionswissenschaft and the challenge of multi-religious student groups; and (3) to offer a solution that might improve and turn the Study of Religions into a more fruitful field. The results show that the concept of religion is the result of the developments in Western Europe and Christian theology. Secondly, the results illustrate that the methodologies of the department for the Study of Religions at Södertörns University College are seriously flawed. Finally, some personal suggestions and reflections are made that might improve the methodologies of the field.