Examination Board: AQA
What Will I learn?
Why Study Ethics and Philosophy?
- Deepen Understanding of Humanity: Ethics and Philosophy introduce students to the core questions about existence, purpose and morality that have been discussed for millennia. Students not only learn about various religious beliefs but also the philosophical concepts that underpin and challenge these beliefs.
- Develop Critical Thinking Skills: Navigating the intricate arguments and counterarguments in this field fosters the development of analytical and critical thinking skills - assets in any professional or academic setting.
- Enhance Communication Abilities: Engaging in debates and discussions on ethically charged topics teaches students to articulate their views convincingly and respectfully, an indispensable skill in both personal and professional lives.
- Encourage Empathy and Open-mindedness: Exposure to a wide array of beliefs and ethical systems allows students to appreciate diverse perspectives, promoting a culture of mutual respect and understanding.
Examples of some of the topics covered.
Philosophy: Existence of God, Evil and suffering, Religious Experience, language, life after death
Ethics: How we make moral decisions, ethical issues (abortion, euthanasia, war, poverty, animal ethics, stealing etc), what is the meaning of right and wrong, conscience, freewill and determinism
How Am I Assessed?
Two written exam papers at the end of Year 13.
What Career Options Do I Have?
Relevance for Jobs and University:
- Broad Career Pathways: The skills acquired are invaluable in a vast range of careers. Journalism, law, social work, counselling, teaching, international relations, and even in the corporate world where ethical decision-making is crucial, the insights from a philosophy and ethics background can set you apart.
- Foundation for Multiple Disciplines at University: Many courses in the humanities, social sciences, and even some natural sciences can benefit from a background in ethics and philosophy. Subjects like anthropology, sociology, psychology, political science, and more have overlaps with the critical thinking and ethical considerations covered in the subject.
- Preparation for Life: Whether or not students pursue a career directly related to ethics and philosophy, the moral and ethical challenges faced in personal and professional lives will be better navigated with a foundation in philosophical and ethical reasoning.