Ciencia de la Religión:: Conocer a los humanos, para un servicio más cualificado a la sociedad

Abstract

This paper intends to show the general principles and the sphere in which Religious Studies first appeared and developed. The first part presents the context in which it appeared as an autonomous science, its relation to Theology and to other Human Sciences, as well as the historical background that can help to better understand its field of study and scope. The second part enumerates current issues where Religious Studies can be a valuable contribution, and that concern the contemporary way of life of men. As a conclusion, a brief reflection about the role Religious Education can play to build a better, more tolerant society is presented.