AQA GCSE Religious Studies (8062) · Paper 2
🌱 Theme B: Religion & Life
Revision notes written to the specification, with examiner tips and the required practicals. Every point here has flashcards in the Stickwise app.
Origins, environment & life ethics
OriginsScientific explanations such as the Big Bang and evolution can seem to conflict with the Genesis creation account. Literalist believers resist these theories, but most believers reconcile the two, seeing science as explaining how the universe came about and God as explaining why.
EnvironmentHumans are seen as stewards, or khalifah, of a world that is on loan to them, so 'dominion' over creation is read as a responsibility rather than a licence to exploit it. This leads believers to fight pollution, conserve resources and protect species.
AnimalsAnimals may be used, but only with respect. Most believers accept life-saving medical research on animals, while cruelty and cosmetic testing are condemned, and some believers become vegetarian.
Sanctity of lifeLife is held to be sacred and given by God, since humans are made in the 'image of God' and told 'do not take life… Allah has made sacred'. This principle underlies every argument about abortion and euthanasia, where it is weighed against quality of life.
AbortionAbortion is legal in the UK up to 24 weeks. Those against it argue that life begins at conception, a Catholic teaching, though Muslim scholars debate when ensoulment occurs. Those with a more permissive view point to compassion for the mother's life and health, and to hard cases.
EuthanasiaMainstream faith positions oppose euthanasia, holding that the timing of death belongs to God, that the vulnerable must be protected, and that hospice care is the loving answer. More liberal views emphasise mercy and autonomy. Euthanasia is illegal in the UK.
🎯 Examiner tip: Sanctity of life against quality of life is the axis of every Theme B evaluation. Name both principles explicitly, attach a quotation to sanctity of life, then weigh them against each other for your conclusion.
Turn these notes into memory. 8 flashcards cover this topic. Short daily sessions, spaced repetition up to your exam date, quizzes with friends. Free during the beta.Practise Theme B: Religion & Life in the app ↗