VCE Religion & Society Unit 2

VCE Religion and Society enables students to understand the complex interactions between religion and society over time. Religion has played and continues to play a significant role in the development and maintenance of society. 

Through the study of Religion and Society students come to acknowledge the role of religion in shaping historical and present events. They explore times when religion dominated societies and the shifting role of religion in societies today in which multiple worldviews coexist and religion may be seen to have a lesser role overall but an enhanced role in other settings.

This study fosters an appreciation of the complexity of societies where multiple worldviews coexist and develops skills in research and analysis, helping students to become informed citizens and preparing them for work and further study in fields such as anthropology, theology, philosophy, sociology, journalism, politics and international relations.

VCE Religion and Society is a VCE subject, with students receiving a study score that contributes to their final ATAR.

Students in Year 11 will spend both Semester 1 and Semester 2 completing Unit 2 Religion and Society.

Religion and Ethics

This unit explores how people determine what is morally good and make ethical decisions. It considers influences such as societal norms, personal feelings, and religious or philosophical traditions. Ethics involves studying the reasoning and principles behind moral judgments, which are shaped by concepts, theories, and cultural backgrounds. These judgments occur at all levels of society and are influenced by family, community, and tradition. In today’s diverse world, ethical perspectives also interact with media and popular culture, though values like human dignity and justice remain central. Students in this unit examine ethical decision-making methods from at least two religious traditions and apply them to real-world issues. 

Areas of Study

1. Ethical Decision Making and Moral Judgement

2. Religion and Ethics 

3. Ethical Issues in Society

• Case studies 

• Visual analysis

• Essay

• Extended responses 

• Analyse scripture  

Mrs Cara Pawsey: cpawsey@cmcb.vic.edu.au