Students will study world cultures with an emphasis on the role of religion in past and present societies.  The evolution of Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam and their short and long-term effects on the world and their respective cultures will be a focus through the course.  This will be accomplished through evaluation of primary sources throughout history and in present-day society.  Specific connections will be made with the cultures of Africa, Asia, Latin America, and western and eastern Europe.  A study of religion in the United States will also be explored as well as the cultures of American cultures of Alaska, New England, the South, the Midwest and West Coast.  The cultural background of the class will also provide more subject matter as students will act as a resource as they share their own experiences with each other.  Guest speakers will act as primary sources for each unit through the use of student-led interviews.   Students will be expected to lead at least one interview which includes research, preparation and follow-up responses.