RELIGIOUS STUDIES (OCR)
AS Course Outline
What is Religious Studies?
Religious Studies at AS Level is a subject which enables candidates to analyse some of the fundamental questions in life, such as;
- Can we know that God exists?
- Can we explain the presence of evil and suffering in the world?
- How do we make ethical decisions?
- Does life have intrinsic value and do we have the right to end it?
The study of the subject is divided between Philosophy of Religion and Ethics. In the Philosophy of Religion course, candidates will study Ancient Greek and Judaeo-Christian metaphysical views, and become acquainted with works of Plato and Aristotle, as well as key Biblical Passages. They will study the philosophical arguments for the existence of God devised by theologians throughout history, and also look at challenges to religious belief, such as the so-called 'problem of evil'. The study of Ethics equips students with knowledge and understanding of various forms of ethical theories. The main focus will be on Natural Moral Law and other forms of Christian Ethics, Kantian Ethics and Utilitarianism. Students also practise applying these theories to topical issues such as abortion, fertility treatment, genetic engineering, euthanasia and war.
Structure of the course
The course is taught over six 45 minute lessons a week. Homework is set for every other lesson and deadlines must be adhered to. Furthermore, it is essential that the set texts are read and comprehensive notes are taken from them, so as to aid revision.
Is Religious Studies for me?
Religious Studies at AS Level does not require previous GCSE experience in the subject, however a good grade at GCSE English is recommended. It is a subject for students who enjoy analysing not only various philosophical and religious arguments but their own beliefs as well, in order to determine how these are reflected in society and whether or not they are valid points of view to hold. Religious Studies equips students with the skills to read philosophical and religious texts from different schools of thought, so that they are able to draw out arguments, and identify strengths and possible flaws within the reasoning. Students are also taught how to write clear, concise and coherent essays which utilise evidence to illustrate points as well as critique them.
Religious Studies is compatible with any subject within the humanities and sciences canon and, as well as being viewed with favour by university admission tutors, is good preparation for studying Philosophy, Law or Medicine, amongst many other subjects.
| Religious Studies AS Level Specification | |
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G571 |
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G572 |
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Recommended Reading
- Thomas Nagel, What does it all mean? A very Short Introduction to Philosophy.
- Jostein Gaarder, Sophie's World
- Brian Davis, An Introduction to Philosophy of Religion
- Nigel Warburton, Philosophy, The Basics
- James Rachels, The Elements of Moral Philosophy
