Violences et religions

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/violences-religions

Introduction

**Course Review: "Violences et religions" on Coursera** In an age where the intersection of religions and violence dominates headlines across the globe, Coursera offers a profound course titled "Violences et religions." This course aims to explore the complex relationship between religious beliefs and violent acts through a historical and comparative lens, with particular emphasis on Christianity, Islam, and a touch of Judaism within the Euro-Mediterranean context. ### Overview The need to understand the nuances behind the phrase “violences et religions” has never been more pressing. This course recognizes the implications of contemporary events but wisely urges students to take a step back and delve into historical contexts that have shaped these issues. By scrutinizing key religious texts and their interpretations, the course presents a layered understanding of how religious narratives have been intertwined with acts of violence throughout history. ### Syllabus Breakdown The course is thoughtfully divided into several key sections that guide learners through a comprehensive exploration of the subject matter: 1. **Method, Principles, Origins**: The course begins with an historico-critical approach to both the Bible and the Quran. It offers an in-depth examination of the early stages of Christianity and Islam, providing foundational knowledge necessary for understanding later developments. 2. **La chrétienté médiévale**: This segment tackles the complexities of medieval Christianity, discussing themes such as forced conversion, the persecution of heretics, crusades, and also instances of non-violence. A unique angle is added by addressing Judaism's response to violence, enriching the comparative perspective. 3. **L'islam médiéval et moderne**: Participants learn about key developments from the era of the first caliphs to the Omayyad conquests, examining Islamic thought on war and peace. This section is crucial for anyone looking to understand the evolution of Islamic ideology around conflict. 4. **L'Europe moderne (16e-18e siècle)**: This part covers the tumultuous period of the 16th to 18th centuries, filled with religious violence, and leads into the theological and philosophical discussions that laid the groundwork for the eventual rise of freedom of conscience in Europe. 5. **L'islam du 18e au 20e siècle**: This section dives into modern Islamic movements such as Salafism, Wahhabism, and the Muslim Brotherhood. It also addresses the Arab Renaissance (Nahda), the Arab-Israeli conflict, and contemporary issues of iconoclasm, extremist groups like Daech, and the quest for individual rights in the Arab-Muslim world. 6. **Réflexions et défis d'aujourd'hui**: The course wraps up with insights from distinguished contributors across various fields, offering philosophical, legal, humanitarian, religious, and psychological perspectives on the subject at hand. This final module encourages critical thinking and prompts students to reflect on current challenges. ### Evaluation and Recommendations The "Violences et religions" course stands out due to its robust and interdisciplinary approach. The historical framework provides clarity, allowing participants to grasp the complex layers that contribute to modern-day conflicts rooted in religion. The engaging syllabus is exceptionally structured, making it accessible for those new to the subject while still presenting depth for seasoned scholars. **Who Should Enroll?** This course is highly recommended for students of religious studies, history, political science, and anyone interested in understanding the roots of violence associated with religious beliefs. Additionally, it could benefit policymakers, NGOs, and community leaders who seek to address issues of religious extremism and promote dialogue between different faiths. **Conclusion** In conclusion, Coursera’s "Violences et religions" is a timely and essential exploration of the interplay between faith and conflict, making it a highly recommendable course for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of this critical global issue. With its thoughtful content and expert insights, it equips learners with the tools to engage in informed debates and foster a more nuanced understanding of religion and its implications in today's society.

Syllabus

Méthode, principes, origines

Pour commencer, nous vous proposons une approche historico-critique des textes sacrés (Bible et Coran) et des premiers temps du christianisme et de l'islam.

Vous entendrez ici parler de christianisation contrainte, de chasse aux hérétiques, de croisades, mais aussi de non-violence. Avec en outre une leçon sur le judaïsme face à la violence.

Notre tâche sera maintenant de bien vous guider : de la période des premiers califes (dits précisément bien guidés) aux conquêtes omeyyades et à la réflexion, en terre d'Islam, sur la guerre et la paix.

Nous allons ici vous conduire du 16e siècle, avec son cortège de violences religieuses, à la réflexion théologique et philosophique qui va contribuer à la victoire de la liberté de conscience en Europe.

Vous allez comprendre ici ce que sont le salafisme, le wahhabisme ou les Frères musulmans. Il sera aussi question de la Nahda (Renaissance arabe), du conflit israélo-arabe, d'iconoclasme, de Daech et de liberté de conscience dans le monde arabo-musulman.

Nous allons vous présenter plusieurs intervenants de grande qualité, qui vous apporteront notamment un éclairage philosophique, juridique, humanitaire, religieux, psychologique sur notre thème.