The University, the Study of Religion and the Public Square

Workshop Leaders: Dr David Cheethamand Dr Andrew Davies, School of Philosophy, Theology and Religion

A substantial amount of the research the University of Birmingham pursues in the field of religion is undertaken outside the Department of Theology and Religion. Religious and cultural ideologies impact the work of researchers across all five Colleges and comprise the primary research focus of many colleagues in within their different disciplines.

This workshop will gather researchers from across the University who consider religion to be an important element of their research in order to consider the broader possibilities for collaboration and impact in the public domain. The aims of the workshop are:

1. Discovery (internal). Who is doing what research?
2. Exploration. The scope for inter-disciplinary collaborative research.
3. Engagement. How much of what we do can engage the public?  How might the public participate?
4. What are the public needs regarding understanding religion today?
5. Planning.  What needs to be set up to realize the potential for a consolidated ‘university’ profile in the study of religion with a public focus?

To register to attend this workshop please email Sarah Jeffery.