Philosophy & Ethics
OVERVIEW
There are three components to the A Level course. They are the study of Christianity, Philosophy of Religion and Religious Ethics. Each component will be assessed through a written exam.
Aims & Learning Outcomes
A Level in Religious Studies will encourage you to:
• Develop your interest in a rigorous study of religion & belief and relate it to the wider world.
• Develop a knowledge and understanding appropriate to Christianity.
• Develop an understanding and appreciation of religious thought and how it contributes to individuals, communities and societies.
• Adopt an enquiring, critical and reflective approach to the study of religion.
• Reflect on and develop your own values, opinions and attitudes in the light of what is studied.
STUDY
Development of Christian Thought
The following content is covered:
• Human nature, death and the afterlife.
• Christian moral principles.
• Christian moral action, knowledge of God’s existence.
• Person of Jesus Christ.
• Religious pluralism and society.
• Gender and society.
Philosophy of Religion
You will study:
• Philosophical influences.
• The nature of the soul, mind and body.
• Arguments about the existence of God.
• The nature and impact of religious experience.
• Challenges for religious belief and the problem of evil
• The nature of God.
Ethics and Religion
You will study:
• Natural law, Kantian ethics, utilitarianism and situation ethics.
• Ethical theory in two contemporary issues of importance – euthanasia and business.
• Ethical language and thought.
• Debates surrounding the significant idea of conscience.
• Sexual ethics and the influence on ethical thought of developments in religious belief.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Philosophy and Ethics is a respected subject at all universities and colleges in the UK. It is accepted for a wide range of careers including teaching, law, medicine, social work, business and management and personnel work as well as others.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
5 grade 9-4’s GCSE or equivalent including grade 5 in RE.