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1 Relationships and families (a) Outline one Buddhist belief about contraception - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 1 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 1
1 Relationships and families (a) Outline one Buddhist belief about contraception. (b) Describe why Buddhists might believe discrimination on the basi... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:1 Relationships and families (a) Outline one Buddhist belief about contraception - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 1 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline one Buddhist belief about contraception.
Answer
One key Buddhist belief about contraception is rooted in the First Precept, which encourages the avoidance of harm. Buddhists generally believe that using contraception can be acceptable if it prevents potential suffering, such as avoiding unwanted pregnancies that may lead to difficult circumstances for a child or family. Thus, the decision often weighs the intention behind the action and its ethical implications.
Step 2
Describe why Buddhists might believe discrimination on the basis of gender is wrong.
Answer
Buddhists believe in the principle of non-harming (ahimsa) which extends to treating all individuals with equal respect regardless of gender. Discrimination goes against the core Buddhist teaching of interconnectedness, suggesting that actions affecting one person can impact the collective whole. Moreover, teachings from the Buddha emphasize compassion and understanding, which are undermined by any form of segregation or inequality.
Step 3
Explain why Buddhists might have different attitudes towards marriage.
Answer
Buddhists may have varied views on marriage influenced by cultural contexts and interpretations of teachings. For instance, some traditional followers might see marriage as a necessary part of family life, aligning with the values of community and stability. In contrast, others might prioritize monastic life, viewing it as a path closer to enlightenment. Such differences point to the diverse ways Buddhism interacts with cultural norms.
Step 4
'Family life is the most important part of Buddhism.' Discuss this statement.
Answer
In examining this statement, one could argue that family life provides the foundational context for moral development and support in Buddhist practice. The family nurtures values such as compassion and mindfulness through daily interactions. Conversely, another perspective highlights that the ultimate goal of Buddhism is reaching enlightenment, which can sometimes require individuals to step away from family ties. This duality illustrates the balance between familial obligations and spiritual aspirations, revealing that neither aspect can be deemed more important universally; the significance varies based on individuals' beliefs and circumstances.