R E L I G I O U S   S T U D I E S
P H I L O S O P H Y
&  E T H I C S
AQA 2060 AS / A2 Religious Studies

INTRODUCTION
The AS and A2 Religious Studies course at Royal Russell focuses on the philosophy and ethics of religion and life. It is a course that has increased in popularity in UK schools over recent years, and gives students of any faith or none the opportunity to grapple with some of the key issues facing our modern world. The course is designed to make students think about fundamental issues of human existence, and will prepare students for further study in this field or equip them for any number of University courses.

The Course
There are two units of study for the AS and two units of study for the A2. Each unit is assessed by a written examination at the end of the course. There is no coursework.
Students will study the following units;
AS - Unit 1 Religion and Ethics

• Utilitarianism as an ethical system
• Situation ethics as an ethical system
• Religious teachings on the nature and value of human life
• Abortion and Euthanasia

Unit 2 Philosophy of Religion

• The Cosmological Argument
• Religious experiences
• Basic psychology of Freud and Jung
• Atheism and Postmodernism

A2 - Unit 3 Philosophy of Religion

• The Ontological argument for the existence of God
• Use of religious language
• Body, soul and personal identity
• The problem of evil

Unit 4 Religion and Contemporary Society

• Challenges posed by practice of religion today
• Attitudes towards sex, marriage and family
• Study of one faith community in the UK other than Christianity
• Interfaith relationship and dialogue

Whereas some units will draw primarily on Christianity, others will draw on a wider spectrum of religious ideas and experiences. The course will engage with some of the world’s greatest thinkers, will consider belief in God, the value and nature of human life, look at current ethical issues, and stimulate thought about religious life in 21st century Britain.

Why Take The Course?
If you are interested in the subjects listed above, this course is for you. The course is recognised by Universities to be one that makes students think about the world around them, be more aware of current issues, and more able to express opinion. It is an excellent balancer to science subjects, bringing an ethical slant for those interested in studying medicine or wanting to do any kind of research. The course is open to those who have not done GCSE Religious Studies. An English or Religious Studies GCSE grade A is preferred, although this can be negotiated.