COMM 4431 Religious Expression in the Digital Age

Satisfies one of two writing intensive courses required within the Communication major. Restricted to Juniors and Seniors. This writing intensive seminar examines religious expression within the current digital moment of social acceleration, infinite interconnections and expanding cultural spaces. Recent surveys show that while Americans are less affiliated with institutional religions, they still seek spiritual meaning and connections. This course explores how the digital age offers new opportunities for religious expression as well as challenges to traditional religious authorities. Students will discuss emerging theories on digital media and the intersections of media and religion. In order to critically examine the representation of religion in digital media spaces, students will engage with contemporary case studies, such meditation apps, Neopagan online rituals, Muslim fashion gurus on Instagram, spirituality podcasts, Evangelical Christian "mommy" blogs, Jewish dating sites and the Pope's Twitter feed. This course is a writing intensive seminar with a required twenty five page research paper.