Religious Studies

Why study Religion, Philosophy and Ethics?

This A Level encourages students to:

• develop an interest and enthusiasm for a rigorous study of Religion, Philosophy and Ethics

• treat the subject as an academic discipline by developing knowledge and understanding

• evaluate the ideas studied and apply them to your own experience and the wider world

• use an enquiring, critical and empathetic approach to the study of Religion, Philosophy and Ethics

Entry Requirements

A 6 in Religious Studies GCSE is a requirement if you have taken it. Alternatively a 6 in another Humanity GCSE. A lively interest in the study of ideas and human motivation and a willingness to enquire into and analyse concepts and ideas which differ from your own. Also a willingness to discuss your own and others' ideas.

Special features of the course

This course is stimulating, challenging and thought-provoking. You will acquire skills that will aid you in a wide range of Higher Education courses and throughout life. The focus on medical ethics throughout the course makes it valuable for those applying for Medicine or Law degrees, as well as many others.

Costs

There are no additional costs

Where can I find out more?

See Mr Hobbs or Mrs Knight or email Mr Hobbs on jhobbs@ahs.bucks.sch.uk

Have a look at the subject presentation here

How is the course organised?

There are 2 modules of study, each assessed by a written paper. There is a greater emphasis being placed on evaluation rather than on the learning of a large amount of facts.

Religion and Philosophy

• God/Ultimate Reality;

• Sources of wisdom and authority;

• Arguments for the existence of God;

• Evil and suffering;

• Religious experience.

• The challenge from science;

• The nature and function of religion;

• Religious language;

• Miracles;

• Self, death and the afterlife.

Religion and Ethics

• Key moral principles;

• Religious identity;

• Sources of wisdom and authority;

• Ethical theories;

• Issues of human life and death;

• Issues of animal life and death;

• Religion and sexual identity;

• Religious pluralism;

• Introduction to meta ethics;

• Free will and moral responsibility;

• Conscience;

• Bentham and Kant.

Assessment

Two papers: written exams, 3 hours each