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.