Categories
Religion and Theology

Exploration of a contemporary controversy in religion.

A controversy is any issue that elicits passionate disagreement, and religion is no stranger to controversy. Violence, terrorism, feminism, sexism, religious nationalism, LGBTQ+ issues, environmentalism, atheism, consumerism/capitalism, decolonization /reconciliation, religion and science, religion in the media all touch on controversy. Write an analysis of a particular controversy within one of the religious traditions we have studied. It cannot be your own (or your people’s) tradition. The essay should present a short background to the religion in relation to the controversy being discussed. It should also include discussion of at least two different interpretations of the issue within the tradition. If relevant, cite primary sources like scripture or sacred texts.
General Essay Structure and Citations (This is a Subheading)
Essays should begin with a “hook” that gets the reader’s attention.
Essays’ Introductions and Conclusions should tell the reader what they will read (have read) about.
Introduction should include a strong thesis statement or clear signposts so the reader knows what is coming.
Essays should use articulate subheadings to divide up the essay into sections. (“General Essay Structure and Citations” above, that’s a subheading).
Essays should use consistent author/date in text citations (Author, date, pg. #) or footnotes[1] to cite sources accurately, including page numbers when including a quotation.
Chicago Style is a great style to learn, but I accept other styles as well, so long as they are consistent.
Quotations should be introduced and contextualized. Do not leave them floating or overuse them.
Essays should seek out the best information available (Peer review or professional writing).

QUICK QUOTE

Approximately 250 words