The Talking Machine - The Phonograph and the Making of Modern American Religion

This course explores how the phonograph and record companies of the 1920s influenced modern American religion. The learning outcomes include understanding the impact of technology on faith, exploring the intersection of music and religion, and analyzing the role of prominent figures in shaping religious discourse. The course teaches skills such as critical thinking, historical analysis, and cultural interpretation. The teaching method involves a seminar-style presentation with a focus on historical narratives and primary sources. The intended audience includes students of history, religion, technology, and cultural studies, as well as anyone interested in the intersection of faith and modernity.