Subject Department: PHILOSOPHY and ETHICS

Examination Board: OCR

Brief Specification Summary
Philosophy and Ethics is the academic study of this world and beyond. It asks the questions of "why" rather than "how". In philosophy we focus upon the existence of God, miracles and evil; asking whether these things truly exist. In ethics we ask questions about human morality – what is a good action? How do I know how to be a good person?

Subject Synopsis

	Study the philosophy and ethics of religion
	Undertake an in-depth study of a selected area through an extended essay

Aims of the Course:

	Develop an interest and enthusiasm for the philosophy of religion and ethics
	Recognise the subject as an academic discipline in its own right, by developing appropriate knowledge and understanding
	Use an enquiring, critical and empathetic approach to the study of philosophy of religion and ethics
	Develop critical thinking skills
	Acquire and develop an understanding of how to think philosophically
	Acquire, develop an understanding of and evaluate different philosophical and ethical theories
	Consider modern ethical dilemmas in the light of the history of ethical thinking.

Prior Level of Attainment
It is not essential to have studied Religious Studies for GCSE, but it would provide a clear indication of interest, ability and to meet the demands of the course. It is advisable that students have a good English Language GCSE before undertaking this course, because of the literacy element to this course.

Course Content Summary - Advanced Subsidiary (AS)

For Advanced Subsidiary you would study the following three units:

	Ancient Greek philosophy – Plato and Aristotle
	Judaeo-Christian Understanding of God
	Ethical Theories
	Meta-ethics (study of ethical language)

	Philosophical arguments for the existence of God
	Problem of evil and suffering
	Debate about miracles

	Ethical theories
	Applied ethics and Medical Ethics (abortion, euthanasia, genetic engineering, fertility treatments.)

Course Content Summary - A2 level

	Philosophical arguments for the existence of God
	Concept of proof
	Life after death
	Religious language

	Conscience
	Freewill and Determinism
	Christian Ethics
	Applied Ethics – war and peace, environment, sexual ethics