Religious Studies

Course summary

A-Level Philosophy and Ethics aims to encourage a student to adopt an enquiring, critical and reflective approach to the study of religion and reflect on and develop their own values, opinions and attitudes in the light of their study. A student will develop knowledge and understanding appropriate to a specialist study of religion and develop an understanding and appreciation of religious thought and its contribution to individuals, communities and societies. The modules that a student will study are: Philosophy - In Philosophy of Religion, a student will study philosophical issues and questions raised by religion and belief. These include arguments regarding the existence or non-existence of God, the nature and influence of religious experience and the problems of evil and suffering. They will also explore philosophical language and thought, through significant concepts and the works of key thinkers, illustrated in issues or debates in the philosophy of religion. Ethics - Religion and Ethics is characterised by the study of ethical language and thought, with exploration of key concepts and the works of influential thinkers. Ethical theory will also be applied to issues of importance, namely: euthanasia, business ethics, and sexual ethics. Developments in Christian Thought - Developments in Religious Thought provides an opportunity for the systematic study of one religious tradition. This will include the exploration of religious beliefs, values, teachings and practices that shape religious identity, as well as sources of wisdom and authority. Also central are the ways in which religious traditions have developed over time and religious responses to challenges and significant contemporary social issues.