What specification is proposed? 

Philosophy & Ethics is studied through the Edexcel Religious Studies specification. This course covers key philosophical ideas and ethical dilemmas embedded with religious viewpoints and beliefs. 

What will I be covering in Philosophy and Ethics? 

“Philosophy, rightly defined, is simply the love of wisdom.” (Cicero) 

“Philosophy is not a theory, but an activity” (Wittgenstein) 

Philosophy of Religion: 

In this section, we will examine key issues within Philosophy of Religion including: 

Metaphysics of God:: 

– The God of Classical Theism 

– The Design Argument 

– The Cosmological Argument 

– The Ontological Argument 

Philosophical Issues: 

– The Problem of Evil and Suffering 

Philosophy of Experience, Language, and belief: 

– Religious Experience 

– Religious Language 

– Developments of Religious Belief 

Ethics: 

In this section, will examine key issues relating to moral philosophy and ethics. We will focus on the following: 

– Utilitarianism 

– Deontology 

– Situation Ethics 

– Virtue Ethics 

– Natural Moral Law 

– Ethical Language 

Applying ethical theories to real life scenarios, such as: 

– War 

– The Environment 

– Equality 

– Sexual Ethics 

– Medical Ethics 

Christianity: 

In this section, will examine key issues relating to the beliefs of Christianity. We will focus on the following: 

– Beliefs, values and teachings 

– Sources of Wisdom and Authority 

– Practices 

– Social and Historical Developments 

– Religion and Society 

What can I do with this subject? 

Philosophy & ethics is highly respected by universities and employers because of the critical thinking and analytical skills used. University admissions tutors and employers will be positive about seeing it as a subject on your applications. Students of Philosophy and Ethics choose many different career paths, including Journalism, Law, Politics, Public Policy, Civil Service, Teaching, Finance and Business and Marketing. 

“The great virtue of Philosophy is that it teaches not what to think, but how to think” (The Times) 

“Philosophy is the ultimate transferable work skill” (The Times) 

“Many employers value the flexibility of thought that a course in Philosophy and Ethics offers.” (University of Bristol) 

Specific entry requirements for this course 

Grade 6 in English must be achieved.