Religion

Philosophy of religion & religious ethics

What is truth? a rather pathetic Roman governor asked of a wandering preacher.

The question was asked nearly two millennia ago yet the answer still seems to elude us. If you are interested in joining such a life-long quest or simply interested in the critical thinking of others then please read on.

You must have an enthusiasm for the world of ideas. If you have never asked 'Why?' of someone's opinion on existence or of someone's belief about behaviour then it is probably best that you look elsewhere for your choice of AS. You must be willing to develop an academic basis of knowledge and understanding for the concepts studied. You must also be willing and open to adopt an enquiring, critical and empathetic approach to study. Do not read on if your mind is already closed – unless you wish to open it!

The Syllabus

Philosophy – areas studied include:

Plato’s concept of forms
Aristotle’s theory of causation and purpose
Arguments for the existence/non-existence of God
The problem of evil
The challenge of science to religious belief
The challenge of psychology to religious belief
The challenge of sociology to religious belief

Ethics – areas studied include:

Ethical language
Fletcher's situation ethics
Virtue ethics
Aquinas and natural law
Kant and categorical imperative
Utilitarianism – Mill and Bentham

Practical ethics – including:
Genetic engineering
Embryo research
Sexuality
Peace and war and much more….

Course structure

Philosophy and ethics are drawn from the RS course in philosophy of religion and religious ethics and is divided into two equal sections. The course will be assessed by external examination at the end of the Lower Sixth for AS and at the end of the Upper Sixth for A2. This will be by essay style answers. There is no compulsory coursework component. Both sides of the syllabus will be taught concurrently and areas of common interest can therefore be usefully explored.

For details of the A Level curriculum please visit www.ocr.org.uk