Religious Studies

Course summary

Religious Studies allows students to apply a wide range of concepts enabling them to confidently interpret, contextualise and analyse the expressions of religions and world views. It encourages students to develop an appreciation of religious thought and its contribution to individuals, communities and societies, in addition to making comparisons of the significant ideas presented in works of scholars. What will I be studying on the course? The course is made up of 3 components. Across the 2 years you will study: 1. Philosophy of Religion: the existence of God, religious experience, the problem of evil, a study of Freud and Marx, religious language and influences of developments in religious belief. 2. Religion and Ethics: ethical theory and language, the application of ethical theory, Kant and Aristotle, beginning and end of life issues, business and sexual ethics. 3. Study of Religion: belief, values and teachings, sources of authority, social and historical developments, including pluralism, secularism, feminism and liberation theology. What will I be doing in lessons? You will create presentations, be expected to share your views giving positive and negative critiques. You will participate in group and paired work suited to a variety of different learning styles. There will be reading and note taking to develop your understanding.