Module 1: Religious Imaginations in a Polarised World
Religion is often a contentious topic, bound up with personal experience, both positive and negative, and with the contested histories of peoples, societies, and institutions. We can, therefore, shy away from discussing it, even in the classroom. But a knowledge of world religions is essential to understanding today’s world.
It is being harnessed by populists and nationalists into major political forces. But it is also empowering activists and inspiring new forms of engagement with the challenges of our times.
This module will include panel discussions with eminent faith contributors giving you the opportunity to put your questions to them; smaller group dialogue sessions on weekly themes allowing you to learn from peers and build community, and participatory workshops to develop leadership skills that will equip you on campus and beyond.
Previous speakers have included Natan Levy, Bishop Mike Royal, Jagbir Jhutti-Johal, Sohail Hanif and Chine McDonald.
By participating in this module, you will:
- Gain knowledge of the fundamental imaginative foundations of different religious traditions and explore how they underpin our understanding of concepts such as truth, justice, freedom, and leadership.
- Gain understanding of the critical role faith groups and individuals of faith play in modern society.
- Develop leadership skills in effective communication, dialogue across differences and strategic empathy.
- Learn from and connect with students from different faith and belief backgrounds in an inclusive, non-assessed educational space.
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Session 1: Monday October 19th, 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Introduction to Religious Imaginations
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A comprehensive introduction to the programme, its ethos and expectations.
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Session 2: Monday October 26th, 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Navigating difficult conversations
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An interactive workshop exploring our Tools for Dialogue through a 'difficult conversation' stimulations.
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Session 3: Monday November 9th, 6:00pm to 8:00pm
What is truth?
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An interactive panel discussion with eminent experts from different religions speaking from their own experience and reflecting on each others’ perspectives.
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Session 4: Monday November 16th, 6:00pm to 8:00pm
What is justice?
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An interactive panel discussion with eminent experts from different religions speaking from their own experience and reflecting on each others’ perspectives.
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Session 5: Monday November 23rd, 6:00pm to 8:00pm
What is Religious Freedom?
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A critical discussion of the FoRB agenda in multi-lateral and political spheres, with an interactive panel discussion of policy-makers and politicians.
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Session 6: Monday November 30th, 6:00pm to 8:00pm
What is Community Cohesion?
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A panel discussion about the role religion can play in building more a inclusive and cohesive society.
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Session 7: Saturday December 5th, 11:00am to 2:00pm*
Exploring tools for leadership across difference
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Session Summary:
This half-day session will explore and experiment with tools for faciliating divisive conversations between disagreeing parties.
*This workshop may take place on Sunday December 6th depending on the religious needs of participants.
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The programme is open to all current LSE students, of all faiths and none.
To join fill in this application. The deadline is midnight on Monday 13th October.
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