Philosophy of Religion

Learners will study:
• Ancient philosophical influences
• Arguments about the existence or non-existence of God
• Nature and impact of religious experience
• Challenge for religious belief of the problem of evil
• Nature of the soul, mind and body
• Possibility of life after death
• Ideas about the nature of God
• Issues in religious language

Religion and Ethics

Learners will study:
• Normative ethical theories
• Application of ethical theory to two contemporary issues of importance
• Ethical language and thought
• Debates surrounding the significant ideas of conscience and free will
• Influence on ethical thought of developments in religious beliefs and the philosophy of religion

Developments in Religious Thought

Learners will study:
• Religious beliefs, values and teachings, their interconnections and how they vary historically and in the contemporary world
• Sources of religious wisdom and authority
• Practices which shape and express religious identity, and how these vary within a tradition
• Significant social and historical developments in theology and religious thought
• Key themes related to the relationship between religion and society

Each unit is worth 33.3% and is examined through a two hour examination for each topic.

Pupils are expected to develop reasoning skills, as well as read a great deal around the topics covered in class. This is a challenging, very enjoyable and rewarding subject that will help to open the mind to many new ideas and thoughts.

Examination Board: OCR
Specification: H573

Mrs L. Rogers – Head of Religious Studies