RELIGION, PHILOSOPHY & ETHICS
The course explores some of the ultimate questions about human existence. It investigates how the beliefs of religions affect the ways in which followers think about philosophical issues and how they make decisions about moral questions. We explore the big questions that humans have always asked. The topics are highly relevant and give lots of opportunities for lively discussion. The course helps you to develop an understanding of the world, the beliefs and customs of others and of the ideas and concepts that govern our behaviour. It encourages philosophical thought and decision making skills, enabling students to discuss and analyse topics they encounter in society and through the media.
Philosophy and Ethics
Religion, Crime and Punishment
Students will study religious teachings and religious, philosophical and ethical arguments relating to crime, why people commit crimes, punishments and attitudes to different types of crime. This will include looking at the topic of the death penalty.
Religion and life
Students will study religious teachings and religious, philosophical and ethical arguments relating to the origins and value of the universe and the origins and value of human life. This will include looking at the topics of abortion, euthanasia and animal experimentation.
Religion, Peace and conflict.
Students will study religious teachings and religious, philosophical and ethical arguments relating to religion, violence, terrorism and war and religion and belief in 21st century conflict. This will include looking at the topics of corporal punishment, the death penalty and forgiveness.
Religion, Human rights and social justice.
Students will study religious teachings and religious, philosophical and ethical arguments relating to human rights, wealth and poverty. This will include looking at the topics of the status of women in religion, the use of wealth and freedom of religious expression.
Christianity
The nature of God, the nature of humans, literal and non-literal ways of interpretation. Jesus’ incarnation, crucifixion and resurrection. Ideas about the afterlife and the role of the Church in 21st century Britain.
Buddhism
The early life of the Buddha, the Dharma and the four noble truths. Buddhist teachings on human personality, human destiny and ethics with reference to karma, rebirth and enlightenment.
How will I study this subject?
Assignments, presentations, debates, visiting speakers, visits to religious buildings.
How will I earn marks for my final grade?
At the end of Year 11 you will have two examinations:
Philosophy and Ethics: 1 hour 45 minutes – 50% of qualification.
Religion – Christianity and Buddhism: 1 hour 45 minutes – 50% of qualification.
The exams will require:
- Short answers asking for definitions and explanations
- Longer answers based on knowledge, informed reasoning, opinions, evaluation
How is this subject going to help me in the future?
Religion, Philosophy and Ethics is a lively and stimulating GCSE subject which
provides a great opportunity for young people to engage with current issues, developing social, cultural, political and historical awareness.
What employable skills will I begin to develop?
- Basic critical and analytical skills
- The ability to employ a variety of methods of study in analysing material, to think independently, set tasks and solve problems
- The capacity to give a clear and accurate account of a subject, marshal arguments in a mature way and engage in debate and dialogue with respect for the opposite case or different viewpoint
- Empathy and imaginative insight
- Self-discipline and self-direction
- Independence of mind and initiative
- Ability to attend to others and have respect for others’ views
- Ability to gather, evaluate and synthesise different types of information
- Analytical ability and the capacity to formulate questions and solve problems
- Presentation skills, both oral and written
What future career paths may be open to me?
If you are planning to move forward into a career that works with people then this
is the subject for you as the subject develops an understanding of the ways in which people see the world differently and how they make informed decisions on life choices:
- Broadcast, film, video and interactive media sector
- Education sector
- Nursing, Fire and Police Services
- Legal sector
- Politics
- Publishing sector
- Social care sector
- Voluntary sector
- Social & pastoral care
- Community work
- Social work
- Journalism