Area of Study 3C – Islam (Philosophy and Ethics) explores philosophical arguments for the existence of Allah and religious teachings on relationships and families in the 21st century from an Islamic perspective. It examines how the Qur’an informs these topics and how they are underpinned by philosophical and ethical theories, including comparisons with non-religious views and divergent perspectives within Sunni and Shi’a traditions.
Area of Study 3C – Islam (Philosophy and Ethics) explores how Islamic beliefs, teachings, and practices shape moral decision-making and philosophical reflection. This topic covers key concepts such as the nature of God (Tawhid), prophethood (Risalah), and the afterlife (Akhirah), and examines how these beliefs influence ethical approaches to issues like war, peace, justice, and medical ethics. Students will study diverse Muslim perspectives, including Sunni and Shi’a traditions, and learn to apply Islamic principles to contemporary moral dilemmas.
This area of study is crucial for understanding how religion provides a framework for ethical reasoning in the modern world. It connects to broader themes in Religious Studies, such as the relationship between faith and reason, the role of revelation, and the diversity within religious traditions. By engaging with Islamic philosophy and ethics, students develop critical thinking skills and gain insight into the beliefs of over a billion Muslims worldwide, fostering respect and informed dialogue in a multicultural society.
Mastery of this topic requires familiarity with key sources of authority in Islam, including the Qur’an, Hadith, and the example of the Prophet Muhammad (Sunnah). Students must be able to evaluate different interpretations and apply them to specific ethical scenarios, using precise terminology and supporting arguments with evidence. This area of study also encourages reflection on the purpose of human life and the nature of moral responsibility from an Islamic perspective.
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