Religious Studies

Assessment

Philosophy of Religion (Paper 1) This paper allows students to explore some of the main contemporary philosophical issues and questions about religion, such as the belief in God or the conviction that life has both value and a purpose. It provides a relevant and challenging context for exploring the particular beliefs, values, and practices that characterize religious communities. In turn, it provides a sound basis for understanding and reflecting on the contemporary influence of religion, the views of those who reject religious belief, and the impact of these factors on people’s lives. Religion and Ethics (Paper 2) This paper explores both the common ground and controversy in dealing with issues that arise in the areas of morality and religion in the context of the modern world. Students will study issues such as equality, war and peace, and sexual ethics. A variety of different ethical stances will provide the basis for discussion and debate about major issues. This is further sharpened by engagement with the views and stances of significant ethical thinkers who have contributed to the debates. New Testament Studies (Paper 3) This paper allows students to study a number of specific gospel texts, as well as the scholarly and critical methods used today to study the New Testament. There is a focus on the Gospel teaching how the first Christians understood the New Testament and how they expressed and interpreted the relationship between Jesus and God. Each paper is assessed by a 2-hour examination. Students must complete all assessments in May/ June of any single year.