Philosophy, Ethics & Belief

Assessment

Component 1: Philosophy of Religion In this unit, students focus on key philosophical questions such as the exploration of the nature and influence of religious experience in philosophical thought. They also consider the place of evil and suffering in the world, and ask whether it is ever possible to successfully talk about God. Other elements of the unit involve addressing key philosophical issues, influences and developments as well as individual philosophers. Component 2: Religious Ethics This unit sees the students exploring the intricate links between religious and philosophical belief, and ethical behaviour. Significant ethical theories such as utilitarianism, situation ethics and natural moral law are debated and applied and practical issues such as War and Peace and Sexual Ethics are considered. The language of ethics, such as what we mean by ‘good’ and ‘bad’ is studied alongside a focus on key ethicists and their particular theories. The ever-popular topic of medical ethics will engage many students as will a focus on some of the more prominent developments in ethics of the last few years. Component 3: Study of Belief - Buddhism. Students focus on the religion of Buddhism. They will be asked to look at religious beliefs, values and teachings, sources of wisdom and authority, and practices that have shaped and expressed religious identity as a Buddhist. Also explored are the social and historical developments as well as a comparative study of two Buddhist scholars. The students will also be aiming to show understanding of Buddhism in the context of key societies.