Getting Medieval, Deep in the Heart of Texas

Battle of Hattin, from MS of Matthew Paris, 13th c.

The Texas State Board of Education today passed a resolution 7-6 warning textbook makers that they would, in the future, "look to reject future prejudicial social studies submissions" that show a "pro-Islamic/anti-Christian bias." One of the board members, Don McLeroy, justified his vote in favor of the resolution by saying that "one of the greatest gifts to the world was medieval Christendom."  Heck, he even (earlier) had written a short essay about it in response to an earlier protest against the actions of the TX State Board of Education.


Whoa there, tiger.

Position Announcement: TT Religions of East Asia

The Department of Religion and Culture in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences at Virginia Tech invites applications for a tenure-track assistant professor position to begin in August 2011.  The primary field for this position is religions of East Asia; preference will be given to applicants who can also teach in another area of study within the department, including women, gender, and religion.  Knowledge of theory and methods in Religious Studies is required. Ph.D. by time of appointment is required.

Publications and evidence of teaching excellence are preferred. A letter of application, c.v., and a  sample research paper should be posted with the online application at www.jobs.vt.edu (posting # 0100728).  In addition, at least three letters of recommendation should be submitted to:

Karen Moore
Office Manager
Department of Religion and Culture
114 Lane Hall
Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA 24061-0227.  

 Screening begins October 18, 2010. Application materials received after that date may be considered until the position is filled. Salary will depend on qualifications and experience. We strongly value diversity in the university community, and seek to assure equality in education and employment. Virginia Tech is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.