Academic Study of Religion

Q: What are the essential features of the “academic” study of religion and how is it different than the study of one’s own religious tradition? Do professions of faith like “Jesus Christ is my personal lord and savior” have any place in the academic study of religion?
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A: The essential feature of academic study is objectivity. While one's personal beliefs are definitely important and to be respected, academics require that one set aside their own perspective (at least for the short term) in order to explore different approaches to the subject with an open mind.