AQA GCSE Religious Studies (8062) · Paper 2
🤝 Theme F: Human Rights
Revision notes written to the specification, with examiner tips and the required practicals. Every point here has flashcards in the Stickwise app.
Rights, equality & wealth
Human rightsGod-given dignity is believed to give every person rights to life, freedom and fairness, matched by responsibilities. Faith groups backed the UN Declaration of Human Rights.
Prejudice vs discriminationPrejudice is the attitude and discrimination is the action, and both are condemned, as shown in the parable of the Good Samaritan and in Muhammad's final sermon, which taught that no race is superior to another.
RacismRacism is regarded as a sin against the belief that all people are created equal. Champions against it include Martin Luther King, who led the non-violent civil rights movement, Desmond Tutu, who opposed apartheid, and Malcolm X, whose views on race changed after his experience of Hajj.
WealthWealth is regarded as a trust from God, alongside the warning that 'you cannot serve both God and money'. This brings duties to give, through Zakah, tithing and charity, and to challenge the causes of poverty.
ExploitationBelievers are taught to ensure fair pay, since 'the worker deserves his wages', and to avoid predatory interest, known as riba or usury. They are also called to fight trafficking and modern slavery, and to support fair trade.
Responsibilities of the poorThose who are able are expected to help themselves where possible, following the teaching 'if a man will not work…', and help given to others should aim to build independence. Those who are truly unable to work still hold an unconditional claim to support.
Freedom of religionFreedom of religion is itself a right, though it can sometimes collide with equality law, dress codes or freedom of speech. Courts must balance these rights, while believers weigh compromise against conscience.
🎯 Examiner tip: Theme F evaluations reward named champions and named laws. Bringing Martin Luther King, the UN Declaration and Zakah into a single answer shows range across religion, history and practice.
Turn these notes into memory. 10 flashcards cover this topic. Short daily sessions, spaced repetition up to your exam date, quizzes with friends. Free during the beta.Practise Theme F: Human Rights in the app ↗