Subject Intent: Why Religion, Ethics & Philosophy?
Studying Religion, Ethics and Philosophy challenges students to think about deep and controversial questions. It incorporates three key areas of study (theology, philosophy and social sciences) and is designed to inspire students to reflect on what it means to be humans and evaluate and reflect on the impact of beliefs on lifestyles. Students are encouraged to develop open minds that are analytical and evaluative, giving them the essential skills that are critical in large variety of careers.
What will I study?
- Religion: Christianity – religious figures, sacred texts, religious concepts, social and historical developments in religious thought, e.g. who was Jesus? What is God’s nature? Is Christianity relevant today? Christian attitudes to inequality. Religious practices.
- Ethics: Religious and secular theories about morality, e.g. utilitarianism, situation ethics and ethical egoism, and their application to issues, e.g. polyamorous relationships, capital punishment, immigration and animal testing. The debate about free will and determinism.
- Philosophy: Arguments for the existence of God and challenges to them from atheism, science and psychology. The problem of evil and religious responses. Religious experiences and the debate around religious language.
Religion, Ethics & Philosophy
Please note: Subject videos have been filmed from colleges across our Trust.
What are lessons like in this subject?
Religion, Ethics and Philosophy (REP) is an exciting and challenging subject that provides an outstanding education in thinking and communicating. You will learn to evaluate and argue with precision, skills your future university and employer is looking for.
This course gives students an opportunity to ask and consider the ‘big questions’ in life such as, “is there a God?”; “how should we behave and what do the words ‘right’, ‘wrong’, ‘good’, ‘bad’ actually mean?” and “how should Christians practice their faith today”? It also encourages students to reflect on and develop their own values, opinions and attitudes.
We use detailed study packs which we have in class and independent activities. This allows us to spend time discussing, challenging and evaluating ideas, concepts and theories from all aspects of the course. This enables us to develop essential essay writing skills. The course is enhanced by talks by speakers from universities and religious and non-religious organisations.
What our
students
This course is a great way to be able to develop debate and critical thinking skills. You have to be open minded to cultures, opinions and big, hard-hitting questions that expand your mind. Every lesson involves all students and interesting discussions are had between you and your classmates.
Wiktoria Poltorak, Armthorpe Academy
