Religious Studies

Have you got a lively, enquiring mind? Have you ever wondered about the fundamental questions of human experience such as, "Why are we here? Does God exist? Why does evil exist? How do we solve moral dilemmas? What do we mean by moral hazards?" Are you prepared to be open-minded and objective and accept that sometimes there may be no easy answers? If so, why not consider Religious Studies?

N.B. You do not need to have taken GCSE Religious Studies, nor do you need to have any faith stance, just a willingness to debate, argue, research, write essays and educate your mind.

Course details

The AS course will consist of two modules, with a further two A2 modules available in the Upper Sixth.

AS Introduction to Religion and Ethics
• Ethical theories: the principles of utilitarianism, situation ethics, Natural Law, Kant's ethical teaching and how these are applied to various moral dilemmas; the strengths and weaknesses of these ethical theories.
• Religious teaching on the nature and value of human life
• Religious views of the created world
• Environmental ethics
• Medical ethics.

A2 Studies in Religion and Ethics
• Ethical theories: virtue ethics, libertarianism, free will and determinism. The main teachings behind these ethical principles and their strengths and weaknesses.
• Religious views on sexual behaiour and human relationships
• Issues raised by science and technology
• Ways of moral decision making, with specific reference to business ethics or medical ethics