Philsophy and Ethics

Philosophy and Ethics

Entry Guidance:

5 GCSEs at grades A* to C or equivalent 

The course is open to all students irrespective of whether or not they have studied it before at GCSE. 

The course is essay based so candidates require good writing skills and must have at least a B grade at GCSE in English Language or Religious Education.  The course will only run if a sufficient amount of students express an interest.

Syllabus Outline:

At AS level (Year 12)

An examination is made of the ethical theories, utilitarianism and situation ethics, and moral issues including the just war theory and sexual ethics. Students also explore the problem of evil and philosophical arguments for the existence of God.

At A2 level (Year 13)

Students study a range of influential ethical theories and concepts such as objectivity, subjectivity and relativity. Philosophy is taken further this year, exploring topics such as Religious Experience and whether it succeeds in proving the existence of God.

Methods of Assessment:

At AS level

Two examinations, one of which focuses on the ethics surrounding euthanasia.

At A2 level

Two examinations. One of these exams includes the prior study of an anthology.

General Comments:

Students will be analysing and exploring questions which continue to fascinate human kind. Anyone is very welcome to study Philosophy and Ethics, whatever their own personal beliefs.

In Philosophy and Ethics you will develop:

Excellent skills of analysis - you will take ideas, beliefs and arguments apart to look at their basic structure to see if they are sound.

Good communication skills - you will discuss ideas and issues. You will also perfect your ability to express your ideas in writing.

Skills of logical thinking - you will learn to present your thoughts in an ordered and reasoned way so that your arguments are convincing and well evaluated.