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Philosophy

Is this course for me?
The study of philosophy develops an inquiring mind, the ability to analyse a point of view, the ability to develop and think through an argument and to reach a logical and justified conclusion. The emphasis is upon 'why'. This is a new course that focuses on 4 major themes in philosophy. We begin with an introduction to epistemology - what is knowledge? How do we perceive things? Am I hallucinating? Is this a dream? What is reality? This is to introduce one to philosophical language, arguments and ideas.
 
The course is then structured around 'Themes' and 'Philosophers', the aim being to introduce you to some of civilisations' great thinkers and their 'ideas'. Your understanding and philosophical development will be assessed both orally and through essay writing.
 
Philosophical training provides the skills needed to think independently and question what others may take for granted, and fortify your courage when making a moral stand.
 
What qualifications do I need?
5 GCSEs at Grade 5 or above including a grade 6 or above in either English, history or religious studies.

What does the course involve?
AQA A Level Philosophy is divided into 4 subjects two of which are taken in the first year and two in the second year.
  • Epistemology - What is knowledge? The nature of impressions and ideas. Are there limits to what we can know?
  • Moral Philosophy - The meaning of good and bad. Looking at Aristotle, Kant and Bentham
  • The Metaphysics of God - The concept and nature of God and 'The Problem of Evil and Suffering'
  • The Metaphysics of Mind - Mind/brain identity theory, what do we mean by mind?
 
How will my work be assessed?
External Assessment of Units:
 
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)
 
Internal Assessments will be used to monitor students' progress leading up to examinations. Assessments in the form of essays and practice exam questions and class presentations will be collected for every 12 hours of learning to determine progression and to assist in setting targets.
 
What can I do afterwards?
You may choose philosophy to broaden science, business or humanities studies. Philosophical skills are recognised by employers, universities and colleges. Philosophy is an excellent foundation for a number of careers including Politics, Scientific Research, Medicine, Journalism, Law, Business and Teaching