Troubles with a European religious history

Abstract

Religious studies can be considered a new, underdeveloped science at German universities. Its current position within academic systems is not particularly clear, and its relevance for academic curriculum is undefined. The reason for this is that theological faculties, which were traditionally considered only competent for questions relating to religion, have considered European history as church history. Taking into account the diminishing social and ethical importance of the Christian religion within the German society, as well as the biographical change in the background of the younger German population, a more defined role of religious studies is critical.