AS Course Outline

What is Religious Studies?
What is the meaning of human life, or of organic life altogether? To answer this question at all implies a religion. ·Albert Einstein

Religious Studies at AS Level is a subject which enables candidates to analyse some of the fundamental questions in life, such as;

• How do we know that God exists?
• How can we explain evil and suffering in the world?
• How do we know what is the right course of action in an ethical dilemma?
  or
• Does life have innate value and do we have the right to end it?

The study of the subject is divided between Philosophy of Religion and Religious Ethics. Within the Philosophy of Religion, candidates will study both Ancient Greek and Judaeo- Christian influences on the subject, and will therefore become familiar with key works of Plato and Aristotle, as well as key Biblical Passages. Furthermore, they will study traditional arguments presented for the existence of God by theologians throughout history, and also look at various challenges to religious belief. The study of Religious Ethics, equips students with knowledge and understanding of the varying forms of ethical theories, where the main focus will be on Natural Law, Kantian Ethics, Utilitarianism and Christian Ethics. Students also get the chance to apply these theories to topical issues such as abortion, euthanasia and war, in order to determine whether these are justifiable practices.

Is Religious Studies for me?
Religious Studies at AS Level does not require previous GCSE experience in the subject, however a minimum grade C 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 they are reflected in society, and whether or not they are valid points of view to hold. As a subject, Religious Studies equips students with the skills to read philosophical and religious texts from different traditions, so that they are able to draw out arguments, and identify possible strengths and 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.

Finally, Religious Studies is compatible with any subject within the humanities and sciences, and is useful (as well as being viewed favourably by admission tutors) for those wish to study Philosophy, Law, or Medicine (amongst many other subjects) at university.

Structure of the Course
The course is taught over three 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. The course is examined in two separate papers, as shown below:

Recommended Reading
1. Sophie’s World – Jostein Gaarder
2. An Introduction to the Philosophy of Religion – Brian Davis
3. The Puzzle of Ethics – Peter Vardy
4. The Puzzle of God – Peter Vardy