Religion is central to world history, society and human life. Religious Studies A level lets you study the various philosophies and beliefs that underlie major religions and helps you understand the perspectives and motivations of believers. This course critically examines how religion and philosophy play an integral part in the thinking and day-to-day lives of a large proportion of the world's population. Religious Studies provides you with a broader outlook on life and increases your skills in abstract thinking and critical thinking. The Philosophy of Religion In this module, you get the opportunity to study some of the most influential thinkers in human history. The course begins with foundational studies of the two fathers of Western Philosophy, Plato and Aristotle, before using these thinkers as a springboard for further enquiries. Throughout the module, we consider some of the most significant questions in Philosophy; is Religious Language meaningless? Are there any successful arguments for the existence of God? Does the existence and/or quantity of evil in the world render the concept of God incoherent? The Philosophy of Religion module aims to develop pupils’ ability to reason and construct an argument with robust chains of reasoning; an invaluable skill in the modern world. Moral Philosophy If I travelled back in time to 1909 and met an Austrian art pupil called Adolf in a bar, would I be justified in poisoning his beer, knowing as we do what he will do? Indeed, if my actions are determined in what sense am I free? What do ethical theories such as Thomas Aquinas’ Natural Law or Bentham and Mill’s secular Utilitarianism say about issues arising from ethical dilemmas such as medical ethics, war and homosexuality? Christian Thought It took the Church 451 years to understand who Christ was! Who was Jesus? Is it possible for him to be both human and divine, and if so, how? In addition to questions such as these pupils will explore the different Christian interpretations of the human condition and the promise and nature of an afterlife and assess how valid such claims are. The challenge secularism poses to Christianity will be investigated as well as the religion’s response to changing views on issues such as gender. Conclusion Universities like pupils who can reason and think in a mature and balanced way, as does the world of work. Religious Studies builds these skills of analysis and debate, critical thinking and mature reflection. These skills will be honed by challenging our thinking at every level. The content that will produce such thoughtful and employable pupils just happens to be fascinating too. Higher Education and Career Opportunities If pupils wish to go on to study the subject at university, there is a huge range of courses available, including Philosophy, Theology, Biblical Studies, World Religions and Anthropology. Other related degrees favouring RS A Level include History, Law, Psychology, PPE and Education.