Introduction to Religions & Ecology

Yale introduces religion and ecology as a field of study, connecting views of nature with conservation, ethics and environmental justice. The course considers how religious ideas and communities can contribute to environmental discussions. It suits learners seeking a conceptual starting point before choosing a region-specific course in the broader ecology sequence.

What you will learn

• Explore the development of religion and ecology.
• Compare views of nature and environmental responsibility.
• Examine interreligious and environmental-justice questions.

Who this suits

Beginners; the provider states that no prerequisite knowledge is required for this introduction to the field.

Before you enroll

Approach the material as a situated interpretation of religious history, texts and practice. Distinguish a tradition’s internal account from an academic argument about it, compare evidence and recognize diversity within communities. Courses do not confer religious authority or represent every member of a faith tradition.

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Put it into practice

Choose an environmental issue and identify two kinds of contribution a religious community might make. Distinguish a stated ethical commitment from evidence about its practical effects.

Source and review

This overview is based on the provider's published information, checked on 12 October 2026. It is an editorial assessment, not a claim that we completed the resource. Time filters are approximate study ranges; projects and exercises can take longer.

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