Violence is one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century, as it
has always been. How can we resolve conflict and manage serious differences without assaulting and killing each other? Among the reasons suggested for why we are violent is that religion tells us to do so. What is the link between religion and violence? Does religion necessarily involve violence? Can religion help us to curb violence? Are some religions more violent than others? Why? Why not? These are some of the questions we shall consider in this course in lectures and discussions. Kenneth E. Phifer is a retired Unitarian Universalist minister. He served 25 years as minister of the Ann Arbor congregation and has degrees from Harvard College and the University of Chicago Divinity School. He is the author of numerous articles and books. He has 17 grandchildren. The Study Group for those 50 and over is held Fridays April 17 through May 15.