Course overview
The course invites students to undertake an interdisciplinary and comparative study of the relationship between law and religion and its implications for Australian law, religious tolerance and freedom. Issues are considered from the viewpoints of a range of legal systems/jurisdictions, religions, belief systems and academic disciplines. The subject will cover: (a) the liberal-secular separation of church and state; (b) the socio-historical nexus between law and religion; (c) the relationship between (a) and (b); and (d) a broad spectrum of topical issues. Students in this course will: (a) acquire an appreciation of religious diversity in Australia and consider the implications of such religious diversity for Australian law; and (b) undertake research of a specific issue examining the relationships between law and religion.