Philosophy and Ethics
AS / A2 Philosophy, Ethics and Religion
Choose A level Philosophy, Ethics and Religion because this subject is ideal for students who like to think and discuss ideas that go beyond the normal everyday topics.
At AS the Ethics module is concerned with the theories of right and wrong and the application to abortion, euthanasia and crime and punishment. The AS Philosophy module is concerned with issues such as the origin of the Universe, the existence of God, atheism and agnosticism, religious experience and the connections between philosophy, religion, sociology and psychology.
At A2 we consider issues such as the concept of a soul and ideas about life beyond death. We examine different perspectives upon the problems of evil and suffering and consider further arguments for and against the existence of God.
We use multi media including film and TV, and interactive whiteboards. We visit places of religious and cultural interest and have a wide range of expert visitors who participate in lessons on moral issues.
Subject Combinations
Students have combined this subject with almost any other subject offered by the college. It is an ideal complement to English, Psychology, History, Sociology, Law etc. which develop similar skills. It is a good subject to broaden a science related course, especially at AS level, where the different approaches of science and religion are examined. Students who discover an aptitude for philosophical logic and reasoning may also be offered Critical Thinking AS level as an additional fifth subject.
Assessment
All modules require written communication skills, logic, the ability to select relevant information, interpret evidence, evaluate critically and express complex arguments.
One AS module is taken in January of the first year and another AS module is taken in June. At A2 both modules are taken in June. Homework is set on a weekly basis and will involve written work, research, presentations, work sheets, learning and preparation for discussions.
Entry Requirements
No specific subjects are required at GCSE level and you do not need to have studied GCSE Religious Studies. However, you should have a minimum of 5 grade C passes at GCSE.
The Next Step
This subject is accepted by all British Universities as an academic subject and is particularly useful for courses in History, Theology and Religious Studies, English, Sociology, Psychology, Law and Teaching. It is an accepted qualification for progression onto primary teaching. Students who have continued their studies in this subject at university (either the philosophy or the religion side) are now working in a wide range of careers including teaching, social work, psychology, law, hotel management, personnel management, the civil service and the police and armed forces.
