PHILOSOPHY & ETHICS

This subject is intellectually challenging and stimulating. It aims to develop an understanding and appreciation of how thought relates to individuals, communities and societies.

Students adopt an enquiring, critical and reflective approach to the three disciplines at A Level through lively debates, reading, conferences and essay writing.

Topics studied in the syllabus include:

Philosophy of religion:

• The study of philosophy from ancient philosophical influences to modern day interpretations
• Explore themes such as the Ancient Greeks, the challenge for religious belief and ideas about the nature of God.

Ethics:

• The study of normative ethical theories and development in ethical thought.
• The application of theory to contemporary issues of importance such as business ethics and euthanasia.

Theology:

• • The study of religious beliefs, values and teachings, their interconnections and how they vary historically and in the contemporary world.
  • Explore themes such as feminism, secularism and liberation theology.

Why choose this course?

If you enjoy debating life’s big questions, challenging assumptions, and thinking deeply about the world around you, this course will feel like home. Whether or not you studied RS at GCSE, you’ll quickly find your voice in discussion and discover new ways of seeing and understanding complex ideas.

If you’re drawn to essay writing, exploring diverse viewpoints, and questioning the foundations of belief, ethics, and philosophy, this course will stretch your thinking and spark your curiosity. It’s perfect for students who love to reflect, reason, and wrestle with the big ideas that shape our lives.

Potential future pathways:

This A Level can make a significant contribution to any course or career that requires you to use your skills of critical analysis, evaluation and reasoning.

Religious Studies students also go into a variety of fields including law, medicine, care and social work, journalism, politics, the civil service, the police force and teaching.