Philosophy & Ethics

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What is Religious studies?

Philosophy and ethics explore some of the main questions which have puzzled humanity in its history. What is the purpose of life, is there a God? What do we have to do to lead a good life? Through philosophy you will study a range of answers to these questions and cover a lot of great minds who have addressed these concerns. Do you want to explore religion and the meaning of life? Are you interested in other people; their culture and their beliefs, do you enjoy discussions and debates? If so, you will enjoy studying Philosophy and ethics.

Why study Religious studies?

Philosophy and ethics is worth studying because it develops critical thinking, discussion and evaluation skills while helping you understand different beliefs, cultures and viewpoints. It supports careers such as teaching, the civil service, law, policing, youth and charity work, journalism, publishing, media, public relations and research.

Is Religious studies right for you?

An ideal student is curious, open-minded and enjoys debating big questions about religion, morality and existence. Strong reading, writing and discussion skills help. GCSEs in Religious studies, History or English are useful, but enthusiasm matters most.

What will you study?

• Ethics, Year 1
  Divine command theory, natural law, virtue ethics, ethical egoism, utilitarianism and situation ethics, applied to issues such as abortion, euthanasia and sexuality
• Philosophy of religion, Year 1
  Arguments for God, religious experience, evil and suffering
• Christianity, Year 1
  Jesus’ birth and resurrection, the Bible, God, the Trinity, atonement, salvation, worship and festivals
• Ethics, Year 2
  Meta-ethics, free will and determinism, and natural law (Finnis and Hoose)
• Philosophy of religion, Year 2
  Challenges to religious belief, religious experience and religious language
• Christianity, Year 2
  Religious figures and texts, social and historical developments (wealth, migration, feminism), and religious practices (unification, religious experience, poverty and injustice)

What happens outside lessons?

Studying A level Philosophy and ethics offers far more than classroom learning. You will have the opportunity to visit Durham Cathedral, exploring one of Britain’s most important religious and historical sites while bringing topics such as Christianity, belief and religious experience to life. You will also hear from inspiring guest speakers, including Douglas Davies from Durham University, whose talks give you the chance to discuss big philosophical and ethical questions with leading experts. Outside lessons, you can take part in Debating Club, developing the confidence to argue your ideas and challenge others on issues such as free will, religion and morality. There are also opportunities to enter essay competitions, allowing you to stretch your thinking, build valuable skills for university and stand out on your UCAS application.

What subjects go well with Religious studies?

Sociology · politics · psychology · law · criminology · English literature

What are the entry requirements?

• General requirements: Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above.

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