A Level Philosophy and Ethics

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A Level Philosophy & Ethics is the study of life, the universe and everything in it! By engaging with 3,000 years’ worth of intellectual discussions we will search for the answers to the biggest and oldest questions ever asked by humankind – Is there a creator? Is anything really real? Can God make a stone too heavy for him to lift? Although these questions may have no answer, we will look at what some of the finest minds in human history have had to say about them. By the end of the course the names Plato, Hume and Kant will be as familiar to you as Einstein, Darwin and Shakespeare! For those of you who have ever looked up at the stars and wondered about your place in the universe or those who simply fancy a new and exciting intellectual challenge, this is the subject for you.

Topics studied
Nature of God, Classical Philosophy, Freewill & Determinism, Natural Law, Problem of Evil, Religious Language, Sexual Ethics, Business and Environmental Ethics, Meta Ethics, Gender, Jesus and Christian Moral principles.

Assessment details
This will depend on whether you opt for the full A level or AS course. Both exams will consist of essay questions.

  • AS – 3 x 1hour 15 minute exams
  • A Level – 3 x 2 hour exams

Entry Requirements
GCSE English (Grade B) – you do not have to have studied GCSE EP to take this course.

Expectations
All students must show a commitment to working to regular deadlines, a willingness to engage fully in class discussions and to actively read additional subject material in your own time.

Outside of the Classroom
We have links with the Theology department at Exeter University and organise visits to see guest lecturers.

Reasons to Study
Philosophy is a gateway subject that shuts no doors but opens many. From Law to Politics, Finance to Journalism, the skills you learn with us are highly valued across the whole spectrum of careers. Studying Philosophy and Ethics shows that you have a willingness to engage with complex ideas, think carefully and consider the merits of conflicting opinions as well as the ability to write clearly and concisely. Philosophy & Ethics teaches you important transferable skills such as how to analyse, critique and deconstruct an argument, how to debate, reason, rationalise your thought process and how express yourself articulately.

Find Out More
Philosophy Library http://plato.stanford.edu