A Level Philosophy and Ethics (Religious Studies)
Are religion and morals linked?
Exam Board
Edexcel
Why should I study Philosophy and Ethics?
The specification facilitates enquiry into, and develops insightful evaluations of, ultimate questions about the purposes and commitments of human life, especially as expressed in philosophy, ethics and religion. The qualification encourages students to make connections so that in each field of study they understand the influences over time of developments in religious beliefs and practices, the philosophy of religion, religious ethics and textual interpretation. In the second year of study the specification content encourages students to compare the significant ideas presented in works of scholars selected from the fields of philosophy, ethics and religion. This will enable students to reflect on and develop their values, opinions and attitudes in the light of their studies.
Whilst studying this course, you will have the opportunity to study some of the fundamental questions that people have always asked about life:
- Is there a God?
- Why are we here?
- How should we behave?
- What happens when we die?
What will I study?
Philosophy: you will study philosophical arguments for the existence of God, such as Design Argument, Cosmological Argument. You will study the problem of evil and suffering; is it meaningful to talk about God, life after death and whether religion and science is compatible.
Ethics: you will study ethical issues, ethical theories such as Utilitarianism, Kant, Virtue Ethics, and Situation Ethics. We look at issues such as sexual ethics, euthanasia and abortion.
Religion: When studying Christianity, we examine sources of authority, Jesus, and works of scholars on the atonement theory on Barth and Hick.
How is A Level Philosophy and Ethics assessed?
You will study all three components and take examinations in each of:
- Philosophy of Religion (Paper 1)
- Religion and Ethics (Paper 2)
- Study of religion (Paper 3)
What can I study with Philosophy and Ethics?
This course will also support those who wish to study the sciences, especially those interested in a career in medicine. It also supports law well due to the morality and questioning. It is an academic, well respected A level.
Where does a qualification in Philosophy and Ethics Lead?
The skills of analysis, evaluation of evidence, developed extended writing and research means students are well-equipped for a variety of careers and areas of further study.
Minimum subject requirements
Grade 6 in R.S. or English
It is useful to have a good understanding of Religious Studies at GCSE, but it is not essential.
DACA Philosophy and Ethics Alumni
Name: Anais
High School: DACA
Subjects: Philosophy and ethics, history and English literature
Now studying Philosophy and English Literature at Manchester Metropolitan University
Name: Thomas
High School: DACA
Subjects: Philosophy and ethics, maths and chemistry
Now studying Maths and Philosophy at the University of Lincoln