What you'll learn
Religious and non-religious responses to the big questions of origins, life and death.
Origins and value of life
- Origins of the universe: scientific (Big Bang) and religious (creation) accounts, and whether they conflict.
- Sanctity of life: the belief that life is holy and God-given, so should be protected.
- The quality of life argument used in ethical debates.
Abortion and euthanasia
- Abortion: arguments from sanctity of life against, and from compassion, rights and circumstances for.
- Euthanasia: religious concerns about 'playing God'; arguments about mercy, dignity and autonomy.
Afterlife and the environment
- Beliefs about the afterlife: resurrection, reincarnation, or a Humanist focus on this life.
- Stewardship: the duty to care for the environment as part of respecting creation.
Exam tips
- Balance scientific and religious views on origins.
- For evaluation, weigh sanctity of life against quality-of-life arguments.
Common mistakes
- Assuming science and religion must conflict.
- Confusing euthanasia with abortion in your arguments.