In an age in which the volatility of politics and religion are making headlines, the study of religion in America achieves increased relevance.  This course will examine contemporary issues using historical and sociological perspectives, and will include such topics as the use of the Bible in American history, civil religion, separation of church and state, culture war and the 'religious right', religious foundations for contemporary social issues, and American religious pluralism. We will explore the question: What conceptions of "America" underlie these issues? The human values of religious freedom, tolerance of difference, and freedom of conscience will be highlighted in this course.