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Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 2
Question 4
Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow. Most modern Western democracies are secular states; that is, they believe in the separation of church a... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 2
Step 1
4.1 Name any ONE secular world view and discuss its teachings.
Answer
One secular world view is Agnosticism. This concept was introduced by Thomas Huxley and teaches that it is impossible to definitively prove the existence or non-existence of God. The term 'Agnosticism' comes from the Greek words meaning 'not' and 'knowledge,' indicating a lack of knowledge regarding divine matters.
Agnostics maintain that if a supreme being does exist, such a being is beyond human understanding. This perspective emphasizes the importance of evidence and rational thought in discussions about the divine.
Step 2
4.2 Elaborate on the positive contributions that secularism has made to religions.
Answer
Secularism has significantly contributed to the development of human rights and has promoted equality among religions. It allows various religions, including minority faiths, to coexist harmoniously. Moreover, it provides a framework for all religions to conduct their religious practices without fear of discrimination.
Secularism minimizes religious conflicts by ensuring that all individuals are given equal rights to observe their beliefs. This inclusive approach helps maintain peace and respect among different religious groups.
Step 3
4.3 Discuss the scientific explanation of the creation of the universe.
Answer
The scientific explanation for the creation of the universe is known as the Big Bang Theory. This theory posits that before the Big Bang, the state of the universe is unknown. According to the Big Bang Theory, an immense explosion occurred around 13.7 billion years ago, leading to the expansion of the universe.
Following this explosion, matter and energy began to cluster together, forming stars and galaxies. The theory suggests that small variations in the density of matter led to the clumping of matter into these structures. As galaxies formed, they eventually developed star systems, including our own solar system. Currently, scientists believe the universe remains in a state of expansion.
Step 4
4.4 To what extent does the theory of evolution challenge a religious outlook of life?
Answer
Darwin's theory of evolution offers an alternative explanation for the creation of life, which conflicts with traditional Abrahamic perspectives. This theory posits that species develop through natural selection and adaptation over time, rather than through divine creation as explained in sacred texts.
The implications of evolution have led many to reinterpret these religious texts symbolically rather than literally. While some religious adherents integrate evolution within their beliefs, others see a direct challenge to their understanding of divine creation. For Eastern religions such as Buddhism and Taoism, however, the theory of evolution aligns well with their beliefs, as they tend to be less focused on creation narratives.