Question 1

What is the difference between just war and holy war?

Accepted Answer

Just war theory is a set of ethical criteria developed by Christian philosophers to determine when it is morally acceptable to go to war. It includes conditions like just cause, legitimate authority, and proportionality. Holy war, on the other hand, is a war fought for religious reasons, often believed to be commanded by God. In Islam, holy war is linked to the concept of jihad, but it must still follow strict rules about conduct and non-combatants. The key difference is that just war is about moral justification, while holy war is about religious duty.

Question 2

Do all Muslims support terrorism?

Accepted Answer

No, the vast majority of Muslims condemn terrorism. The Qur'an explicitly forbids killing innocent people (e.g., 5:32: 'whoever kills a soul... it is as if he had slain mankind entirely'). Terrorist groups like ISIS misuse religious texts to justify violence, but mainstream Islamic scholars reject their interpretations. In fact, many Muslims are victims of terrorism themselves.

Question 3

What do Christians believe about war?

Accepted Answer

Christian views on war vary. Some Christians, like Quakers, are pacifists and believe all war is wrong, following Jesus' teaching to 'love your enemies' (Matthew 5:44). Others support just war theory, which allows war if it meets certain conditions (e.g., to protect the innocent). The Catholic Church teaches that war should be a last resort and that non-combatants must be protected. Most Christians agree that peace is the ideal, but they differ on whether war can ever be justified.

Question 4

How can religion cause peace?

Accepted Answer

Religion can promote peace through teachings about love, forgiveness, and reconciliation. For example, Christianity teaches 'blessed are the peacemakers' (Matthew 5:9), and Islam emphasises mercy and justice. Religious leaders often mediate conflicts, and interfaith dialogue can reduce tensions. Many religious charities work to rebuild communities after war. However, religion can also be misused to justify violence, so it's important to distinguish between authentic faith and extremist interpretations.

Question 5

What is the just war theory?

Accepted Answer

Just war theory is a doctrine that sets out conditions for a war to be morally justifiable. It has two parts: jus ad bellum (right to go to war) and jus in bello (right conduct in war). Conditions include: just cause (e.g., self-defence), legitimate authority (e.g., a government), right intention (to restore peace), proportionality (benefits outweigh harm), and last resort. The theory was developed by Christian thinkers like Augustine and Aquinas and is still used today in international law.

Question 6

Why do some people use religion to justify violence?

Accepted Answer

Some individuals and groups selectively interpret religious texts to support their political or ideological goals. They may take verses out of context, ignore teachings on peace and mercy, and claim divine authority for their actions. For example, the Crusaders used Christian symbols to justify war, and modern extremists like ISIS misuse Islamic concepts like jihad. However, mainstream religious leaders condemn such interpretations, and most believers see violence as contrary to their faith's core values.

Religion, violence, terrorism and war

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Key Terminology

Likely Command Words

Ready to test yourself?

Related Topics in AQA GCSE Religious Studies

Authority

Beliefs about the nature of human life

Beliefs and teachings

Buddhism

How to Revise Religion, violence, terrorism and war — AQA GCSE Religious Studies

Examiner Tips for Religion, violence, terrorism and war

Common Mistakes in Religion, violence, terrorism and war

Key Marking Points