New Religions
For the “New Religions” paper, students will select one of the religious movements discussed in chapters 7&8 of the Albanese text book. (Mormons, Christian Scientists, Seventh –Day Adventists, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Shakers, Oneida Perfectionists, Astrology, Witchcraft, Spiritualism, Theosophy, New Thought) The student will write a 3 – 4 page paper (750-1000 words, not including works cited page) The paper should cover the following:
1. Origin- how did this religion begin? Was there a founder? What was going on in the USA when this group started? How did this group relate to or react to what was going on?
2. Creed- explanation about meaning of human life- what can we hope for? Why are we here?
3. Code- rules for everyday behavior
4. Cultus- rituals/worship
5. Community- group of people, experience as a group
Sources for the Paper
Students will use at least 2 sources identified through research in the library. You may find great information at the web sites the group sponsors, and there are a couple good books in the library as well. “Dr. Google” and “Wikipedia” are not enough for college level research. Please view the research tutorials I posted.
Form of the paper
The paper can be in “outline” form. In other words, it is ok if you have separate paragraphs about each topic, and do not have a thesis statement. You may use APA or MLA style guidelines.
Works cited and Intext Citations
Be sure to give proper credit to your sources. That means if you are summarizing, you have to let the reader know where the information is from. (You need to cite your source) If you are quoting, you must use quotation marks and include intext citations. (You need to cite your source.)
