This course aims to examine the role of religion in contemporary international politics, emphasizing the phenomenon of religious fundamentalism. The world’s major religions (Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Buddhism) are analyzed through this prism, in terms of their influence on political perceptions, attitudes and ideologies. It also studies particular issues, such as the clash of civilizations, respect for human rights, and new religious movements. Finally, it explores contemporary state-church relations and the contradictory role of religion in international relations and policy formulation in the US and Europe.