Philosophy
Specification: AQA-A-Level-Philosophy
The AQA A-Level Philosophy specification covers 4 topics with 0 learning objectives (AQA-A-Level-Philosophy). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.
This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.
4
Topics
0
Objectives
52
Exam Tips
48
Pitfalls
Key Features
- Master key concepts
- Develop exam technique
- Apply knowledge effectively
About AQA A-Level Philosophy
AQA A-Level Philosophy invites students to explore profound questions about existence, knowledge, morality, and the mind. The course is structured around four core themes: Epistemology (the theory of knowledge), Moral Philosophy (ethics), Metaphysics of God, and Metaphysics of Mind. Through studying these areas, students engage with key philosophical arguments, classic texts, and contemporary debates, developing rigorous analytical and critical thinking skills.
The specification emphasizes active philosophical enquiry, encouraging students to construct and evaluate arguments, assess the coherence of concepts, and consider the implications of different philosophical positions. It draws on the Western philosophical tradition, from Plato and Aristotle to Descartes, Hume, and modern thinkers, providing a solid foundation for further study in philosophy, law, politics, and other humanities subjects.
Designed to be both challenging and rewarding, the course develops transferable skills valued by universities and employers, such as logical reasoning, clarity of expression, and the ability to formulate persuasive arguments. The linear assessment structure ensures a deep, cumulative understanding of the subject, with all examinations taken at the end of the two-year course.
Assessment Structure
The AQA A-Level Philosophy qualification (7172) is assessed through two written examination papers, each lasting 3 hours and carrying 100 marks, accounting for 50% of the A-Level. Paper 1 covers Epistemology and Moral Philosophy, while Paper 2 focuses on Metaphysics of God and Metaphysics of Mind. Each paper is divided into two sections (one per topic), with Section A requiring short and long answers, and Section B consisting of an extended essay question. There is no coursework or practical component; the entire grade is determined by these exams.
Why Choose AQA?
- Clear and structured specification: AQA provides a highly organized syllabus with well-defined topics, making it easier for students to track their learning and for teachers to plan lessons. The division into four distinct areas ensures balanced coverage and avoids overwhelming content breadth.
- Emphasis on argument analysis: AQA’s assessment heavily rewards the ability to dissect, compare, and evaluate philosophical arguments. This focus aligns with university-style philosophy, offering excellent preparation for higher education.
- Accessible and popular resource support: As the largest exam board in England, AQA has a wealth of published textbooks, online materials, and past papers, making independent study and revision more manageable for students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Assessment Objectives
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the core concepts and methods of philosophy, including through the use of philosophical analysis
Analyse and evaluate philosophical arguments to form reasoned judgements
What Gets Top Grades
Knowledge & Understanding
Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge
- Uses correct subject-specific terminology
- Shows detailed understanding of concepts
- Makes accurate connections between topics
- Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge
Application
Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts
- Selects relevant knowledge for the question
- Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
- Uses examples appropriately
- Shows awareness of context
Analysis & Evaluation
Develops sophisticated analytical arguments
- Constructs logical chains of reasoning
- Considers multiple perspectives
- Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
- Acknowledges limitations and nuances
Key Command Words
Give a single fact or term
Name, select, or recognise
Set out main features briefly
Give an account of what something is like or what happens
Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains
State similarities AND differences (both required)
Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains
Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion
Make judgments about importance with justification
Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units
Common Exam Mistakes
Pitfalls to avoid in your exams
- •Confusing the immediate objects of perception between the three theories
- •Failing to distinguish between primary and secondary qualities in Locke's account
- •Misinterpreting Berkeley's Idealism as a form of solipsism
- •Struggling to articulate the specific sceptical challenge arising from Indirect Realism
- •Confusing the 'Master' argument with other arguments for Idealism
- •Confusing the definition of intuition with common-sense 'gut feeling' rather than the philosophical definition
- •Failing to distinguish between the different types of a priori arguments used by Descartes
- •Misunderstanding the application of Hume's Fork to Descartes' arguments
Top Examiner Tips
Expert advice for exam success
- •Ensure you can clearly define 'sense-data' and explain its role in Indirect Realism
- •When discussing responses to scepticism, focus on the specific arguments provided by the philosophers mentioned in the specification
- •Practice evaluating the strength of the arguments against Direct Realism, such as the time-lag argument
- •Be prepared to compare and contrast the three theories directly
- •Use the set text (Berkeley's Three Dialogues) to support your analysis of Idealism
- •Ensure you can clearly distinguish between local and global scepticism.
- •Be prepared to explain how Descartes uses his three waves of doubt to reach the cogito.
- •Focus on applying specific responses to the sceptical challenge rather than just describing the challenge itself.
Specification Topics
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