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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 prominent secular world view is Agnosticism. This perspective was introduced by Thomas Huxley in the 19th century. Agnosticism teaches that it is impossible to prove either the existence or non-existence of God. In essence, it emphasizes a lack of knowledge regarding divine matters, suggesting that there is no definitive evidence to confirm or deny God's existence.
Agnostics argue that if a supreme being does exist, understanding them is beyond human comprehension. This world view promotes intellectual humility, urging individuals not to assert beliefs that cannot be substantiated.
Step 2
4.2 Elaborate on the positive contributions that secularism has made to religions.
Answer
Secularism has significantly contributed to the advancement of human rights and the coexistence of various religions. By advocating for the separation of church and state, secularism ensures that all religions are treated equally before the law, thus promoting equality and reducing religious discrimination.
Moreover, it allows different religions to coexist harmoniously within the societal framework. Secularism has facilitated religious groups, including minorities, to participate in the formal activities of the state without fear of discrimination or marginalization. Furthermore, it has helped minimize religious conflicts globally, fostering a more peaceful social environment.
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 encapsulated in the Big Bang Theory. According to this theory, it is believed that the universe originated from an enormous explosion approximately 13.7 billion years ago, marking the beginning of time and space.
Initially, all matter was concentrated in a dense, hot state. The subsequent explosion caused the universe to expand rapidly. Over time, small temperature variations led to the formation of clusters of matter and energy, ultimately resulting in the creation of stars, galaxies, and various celestial structures. This ongoing expansion suggests that the universe is continually evolving and changing.
Step 4
4.4 To what extent does the theory of evolution challenge a religious outlook of life?
Answer
Darwin's theory of evolution presents an alternative explanation for the origin of life, which challenges traditional religious viewpoints. It proposes that life evolved through a process of natural selection, contradicting the notion of direct divine creation, which is often described in sacred texts.
Many believers in Abrahamic faiths began to interpret their scriptures symbolically rather than literally, owing to the implications of Darwin's findings. This perspective has triggered an internal conflict within religious communities regarding the interpretation of creation and the existence of an intelligent designer. However, some religious traditions, particularly Eastern philosophies, remain largely unaffected by the theory, suggesting a complex relationship between science and religious beliefs.