Question 1

What are human rights in GCSE Religious Studies?

Accepted Answer

In GCSE Religious Studies, human rights are the basic rights and freedoms that every person has, such as the right to life, freedom of religion, and freedom from slavery. You study how Christianity and Islam support these rights through teachings like the sanctity of life and the duty to care for the poor. The topic also covers conflicts between religious laws and human rights, for example, when religious freedom clashes with other rights.

Question 2

How do Christians view human rights?

Accepted Answer

Most Christians support human rights because they believe humans are made in God's image (imago Dei), giving them inherent dignity. Key teachings include Jesus' command to 'love your neighbour' (Mark 12:31) and the parable of the Good Samaritan, which promotes helping those in need. However, some Christians may oppose certain rights, like the right to abortion, if they believe life begins at conception. The Catholic Church, for instance, emphasises the 'preferential option for the poor'.

Question 3

What does Islam teach about human rights?

Accepted Answer

Islam teaches that human rights come from God and are outlined in the Qur'an and Hadith. Key principles include justice (adl), compassion (rahma), and the equality of all believers. For example, the Qur'an says, 'O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice' (4:135). Muslims are required to give zakat (charity) to support the poor, and the Prophet Muhammad condemned racism in his final sermon. However, some interpretations of sharia may conflict with modern human rights, such as those regarding apostasy or gender equality.

Question 4

What is the difference between prejudice and discrimination?

Accepted Answer

Prejudice is holding a negative attitude or opinion about someone based on their group (e.g., race, gender, religion) without knowing them. Discrimination is acting on that prejudice, such as refusing someone a job because of their religion. In Religious Studies, you need to know religious teachings against both, like 'God does not show favouritism' (Acts 10:34) and the Islamic teaching that all humans are equal before God.

Question 5

How does religion promote social justice?

Accepted Answer

Religion promotes social justice through teachings that encourage fairness, equality, and care for the vulnerable. In Christianity, this includes the concept of the 'Kingdom of God' where the poor are blessed, and the practice of tithing to support the needy. In Islam, social justice is achieved through zakat (obligatory charity), sadaqah (voluntary charity), and the prohibition of riba (interest) to prevent exploitation. Both religions also advocate for the fair treatment of workers and refugees.

Question 6

Can religious beliefs conflict with human rights?

Accepted Answer

Yes, sometimes religious beliefs can conflict with certain human rights. For example, some religions may restrict freedom of speech when it involves blasphemy, or limit gender equality in religious leadership. In the UK, there have been cases where religious employers have wanted to discriminate based on sexual orientation, which clashes with equality laws. In your exam, you should discuss these tensions and how believers might try to balance their faith with human rights principles.

Human rights

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Related Topics in AQA GCSE Religious Studies

Authority

Beliefs about the nature of human life

Beliefs and teachings

Buddhism

How to Revise Human rights — AQA GCSE Religious Studies

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