What will I study?
Philosophy is the cornerstone of civilisations – it has shaped what we believe in, how we think and why we act in the way that we do for centuries. To study philosophy, theology and ethics at A-level is to challenge your beliefs and values, broadening your mind in the process. This is a dialectical subject which emphasizes the importance of curiosity, academic rigour, and rational thought to better understand the world around us.
The course comprises a dynamic blend of three main subject areas:
1. Philosophy: you will learn about the classical schools of Plato and Aristotle, about traditional proofs for God's existence, responses to evil and suffering, ideas about life after death; body and soul. You will examine the nature of religious experiences and question the meaningfulness of religious language.
2. Ethics: you will study key ethical theories including Natural Law, Utilitarianism, and Kantian Ethics. You will apply these theories to issues surrounding euthanasia, sexual relationships, and business ethics. You will question the existence of conscience and ask yourself if human behaviour is determined by heredity, environment, and/or psychology.
3. Theology: you will explore how religions have been challenged by secularism, psychology, pluralism, Marxism, and feminism. You will study Christian responses to these challenges and consider the difference between knowledge, belief, and revelation.
How will I be assessed?
This is a linear course which is examined at the end of the second year by means of three essay papers lasting 2 hours each.
What skills will I gain? Where can the course lead?
Students of Religious Studies A-level will learn to read in-depth, to analyse scholarly opinion critically and to argue effectively. These skills are fundamental in all areas of life and to any career.
This course is a thorough preparation for students wishing to study Philosophy, Theology or world faiths at university as well as numerous combination courses with Classics, Politics, Psychology or Law. The study of ethics complements work in the field of medicine, medical sciences or the caring professions, and it is valuable for those intending to enter journalism or the teaching profession.