LEWISTON – A new course titled “Religion in Culture and Politics” will be offered at the University of Southern Maine’s Lewiston-Auburn College in the summer session.

In light of the changed global landscape since 9/11 and the war in Iraq, the class will examine whether the world is witnessing a “class of civilizations,” in which Islamic, Judaic and Christian systems of belief, thoughts and political structure are vying for worldwide dominance.

Among the topics the course may explore include how Christianity, Judaism and Islam differ in their views on the relationship between politics and religion; the origins of religious extremism; problems that arise when religious values are in conflict with political demands and realities; and finally, what should be the role of religion in matters of state in the 21st century?

The course will meet from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 13 through June 26, at the college, Westminster Street. Anyone interested is encouraged to call the college at 753-6500 for advising and registration assistance. Other summer session course offerings may be found on the LAC Web site at usm.maine.edu/lac.