A Level Philosophy
Examination Board: AQA
Although it is useful to have studied Religious Studies at GCSE level, it is not a requirement of the course. A level philosophy comprises four topic areas: Epistemology, Moral philosophy, the Metaphysics of God and the Metaphysics of mind. The term "philosophy" means, "love of wisdom." In a broad sense, philosophy is an activity people undertake when they seek to understand fundamental truths about themselves, the world in which they live, and their relationships to the world and to each other. During this course students will develop their knowledge and understanding of the content, through the use of philosophical analysis and are encouraged to debate key issues to arrive at reasoned judgement.
Epistemology - what is knowledge? (50% of paper 1 - 25% of A level marks)
In this component students will study how we define knowledge and how we can know the knowledge gained is definitely true. It will also consider the problems of perception in gaining knowledge of the world including the issues of illusions.
Moral philosophy – How do we make ‘good’ decisions? (50% of paper 1 - 25% of A level marks)
Students will establish what we mean by right and wrong. They will study ethical theories and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of these.
Metaphysics of God – Can we prove the existence of God? (50% of paper 2 - 25% of A level marks)
Students will study the attributes of God and paradoxes related to them. They will also analyse, through philosophical arguments, whether the existence of God can be proved.
Metaphysics of mind - What do we mean by ‘mind’? (50% of paper 2 - 25% of A level marks)
Students explore the nature of the mind and how it is linked to the body. They will also consider are zombies conceivable and if so, are they possible?
Paper 1: Epistemology and moral philosophy
- Written exam: 3 hours
- 100 marks
- 50% of A-level
Paper 2: The metaphysics of God and the metaphysics of mind
- Written exam: 3 hours
- 100 marks
- 50% of A-level
Many prime ministers and world leaders study Philosophy and it does suit many careers within the government, as well as other aspects of politics and public policy. It is also a valued subject for those going into jobs within the law sector, marketing, human resources, and journalism.