Subject
Religious Studies
Course
Philosophy, Religion and Ethics
Exam Board
AQA
For more information contact Head of Department:
Mrs Harris charris2@stedmunds.org
Brief introduction to subject:
- Do you ever ask yourself these questions?:
- Why do I exist?
- How do I know what is real / true?
- Is there a God and how can it be proved?
- Are religious experiences such as miracles, visions, voices genuinely from God?
- How do we determine what is right and wrong?
- Do moral laws come from God or humans?
- Should we judge the morality of an action based upon motive, action or effect?
If you have asked yourself these questions and would like to know what famous Philosophers and scholars (ancient and modern) have suggested as possible answers, then this course may be for you. If you are naturally cynical; don’t take things at face value or enjoy a heated debate then this course will likely appeal.
As well, as Philosophy and Ethics there is also a Christian Theology component where you will delve deeply into the thinking that underpin Christian belief.
Course Requirements
RE - Grade 4
English - Grade 4
In addition to directed reading, you will be expected to read widely outside the classroom. Sound literacy and comprehension skills are necessary. The ability to analyse and evaluate is desirable although this skill will be developed as the course progresses.
The Religious Studies course at Sixth Form has three key parts:
- Philosophy of Religion
- Ethics
- Study of Religion: Christianity
You study these separately but will also explore how these subjects can relate to each other in the second year of the course.
Philosophy of Religion:
Arguments for the existence of God
The problem of evil and suffering
Religious experience
Religious Language
Miracles
Self, Death and the Afterlife
Ethics and Religion:
Normative ethical theories
Medical ethics
Capital Punishment
Animal Rights
Meta-Ethics
Free Will & Moral Responsibility
Conscience
Study of Religion (Christianity):
Sources of wisdom and authority
God
Self, death and afterlife
Good conduct & moral principles
Expressions of religious identity
Gender & Sexuality
Science & Christianity
Secularisation
Pluralism
Examination:
2x 3 hour exam
This course allows students to gain critical and evaluative skills sought by higher education and employers-particularly in law, education, social work, politics, medicine, administration and the media.
This subject is highly regarded by some of the top universities in the country. It is also a
Cambridge ’A List’ qualification.
According to the Association of Graduate
Careers Advisory Service RS graduates are well suited to careers in a range of areas including:
Education
Social Care
Journalism
Community Work
Voluntary Sector
Legal Sector
Social Work
Financial Services
Broadcast, film and media
