0917 Philosophy and Religious Studies

Philosophy and Religious Studies is the study of the nature and context of human experience, perception and interpretation of reality, and human spirituality and beliefs.

The main purpose of this narrow field of education is to develop an understanding of theology, metaphysics, ethics and spirituality, the perception of truth, being and reality, and the responsibilities and practices associated with ministering from within a church.

Courses in Narrow Field 0917 Philosophy and Religious Studies develop skills in:

• analysing, constructing and deconstructing arguments using the methods of critical reasoning
• applying theories of logic to rational argument
• authenticating, studying and interpreting religious writings and texts
• evaluating belief systems, ethics and morals
• ministering and counselling individuals and groups
• preparing and conducting services of public worship

This narrow field comprises the following detailed fields:

091701  Philosophy
091703  Religious Studies

Philosophy is the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality and existence.

Examples of subjects in this detailed field include:

• empiricism and rationalism
• epistemology
• ethics
• formal logic
• metaphysics
• ontology

Religious Studies is the study of a set of beliefs and practices, usually involving acknowledgement of a divine or higher being or power, by which people order the conduct of their lives both practically and in a moral sense.

Examples of subjects in this detailed field include:

• biblical studies
• comparative religion
• spirituality
• theology