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You might think that religion is universal and that all human beings are religious in one way or another - NSC Religion Studies - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 2
Question 3
You might think that religion is universal and that all human beings are religious in one way or another. For many people, this is not the case. Some regard themselv... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:You might think that religion is universal and that all human beings are religious in one way or another - NSC Religion Studies - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 2
Step 1
3.1 Name ONE secular world view and discuss its origin.
Answer
One secular world view is Materialism, which originated during the Axial Age from 800 to 200 BCE. This philosophy contends that matter is the fundamental substance in nature, and everything, including consciousness, can be explained in terms of material interactions. Materialism was notably developed by Greek philosophers during this period and further elaborated by figures such as Karl Marx and Baron d'Holbach in the 18th century. It gained prominence particularly with the Protestant movement gaining ground in Europe, thus encouraging a shift towards secularism.
Step 2
3.2 Critically evaluate the impact of secularism on the religious community.
Answer
Secularism has a profound impact on the religious community by promoting various freedoms and tolerances. It supports the idea that no one religion is favored by the state, allowing for peaceful coexistence among diverse faiths. As a result, religious communities have to evaluate their practices within a framework of equal rights, which can lead to a re-evaluation of traditional beliefs and doctrines. However, secularism may also challenge the authority that established religions have traditionally held in society, prompting debates on morality and ethics in public life.
Step 3
3.3 Briefly explain the Big Bang theory.
Answer
The Big Bang Theory posits that the universe began approximately 13.7 billion years ago from an extremely hot and dense state. Initially, there was a singularity, which then underwent a rapid expansion. This theory explains that the universe expanded from a point and continues to expand today. As a fundamental event, the Big Bang marks the beginning of time and space. It also indicates formation processes for matter and energy, with the possibility that the universe will evolve or even end in various ways, though the specifics remain uncertain.
Step 4
3.4 With reference to any ONE Abrahamic religion, compare its teachings regarding the creation of man with the teachings of Darwin's theory of evolution.
Answer
In Christianity, the creation of man is described in the Book of Genesis, which states that God created man in His own image on the sixth day of creation. This account emphasizes a divine origin and purpose for humanity. In contrast, Darwin's theory of evolution suggests that humans evolved from earlier species through natural selection, emphasizing a scientific rather than a divine process. The debate between these perspectives highlights a fundamental conflict between religious beliefs and scientific theories, prompting various interpretations within religious communities regarding the reconciliation of faith and science.