Usunditeadust
Usunditeadust (religious studies) is an interdisciplinary academic field that analyzes religions as social and cultural phenomena. Unlike theological disciplines, it seeks to understand beliefs, practices, institutions, and experiences from external perspectives, often employing methods from history, anthropology, sociology, philosophy, and literary studies. The subject matter covers a wide range of topics, including doctrinal ideas, rituals, sacred texts, religious leadership, organizations, ethical systems, and the role of religion in politics, education, and daily life.
Comparative and cross-cultural approaches are common, enabling scholars to trace similarities and differences among traditions such
Methods used include textual analysis of sacred scriptures, ethnographic fieldwork, participant observation, surveys, and historical-critical research.
The field has grown within both the humanities and the social sciences, with university departments offering
Debates within Usunditeadust concern methodology, representation, and the role of religion in public life, including secularism