OCR GCSE Religious Studies Content Peace and Conflict

How does the relationship between Cain and Abel show the first use of violence?

It is from Cain's own sinful heart that violence comes, and God condemns and punishes him.

What causes some Christians to believe that the use of violence in war to defend people and nations is acceptable?

In the Old Testament, God condemns the use of violence in wars fought by the Israelites and ordered by God. They are fought in order to achieve peace. Justification to defend people and nations.

Do Christians believe it is wrong to be involved with politics?

Some believe that God is sovereign and can be trusted. However others believe that there is a moral obligation to be informed and to speak up at injustice.

How is Christianity involved in politics in the UK?

- Voting and participating in politics is a way to serve God and effect change.

- CofE is the state Church in England.

- Law-making

- In the House of Lords 26 Bishops make up the Lords Spiritual (bring a spiritual consideration to the secular process of law).

State two causes of terrorism

- Marginalisation of minority groups

- When religious freedoms are violated

What do mainstream Christian Churches believe about terrorism?

That hatred, terror and violence is never appropriate for finding solutions in any situations.

What does the Church deem necessary as a last resort in responding to terrorism?

- CathC accepts that sometimes a just war is appropriate response to terrorism.

- CofE accepts the use of lethal force as a last resort in dealing with terrorists.

How does the Church believe some of the causes of terrorism might be combatted?

- Creating stronger communities will help to combat some of the causes of terrorism.

What is a Just war?

A war that means a certain criteria to make to justifiable.

List three areas that are covered within a Just war?

- Jus ad bellum

- Jus in bello

- Jus post bellum

What are conditions of Jus ad bellum?

- Proper authority

- Just reasoning

- Good instead of evil must result

- Last resort

- Forced used no more than necessary

What is a Holy war?

A war that is believed to be fought on the behalf of God and with his support.

What are the three elements of a Holy War?

- Achievement of a religious goal

- Authorised by a religious leader, such as the Pope

- The promise of a spiritual reward for those who take part

Give an example of a time in the Bible when God sent his people to war.

The book of Joshua

When was the last time that the Catholic Church called on its followers to fight in a Holy War?

The Crusades - an attempt by Christianity to reclaim the Holy Land of Jerusalem from the Muslims.

What is the aim of the rules of war?

To safeguard human life and rights as far as possible by limiting violence.

Why are Christians against the use of drones in war?

If going to war was easier and more risk-free, it would become harder to apply human judgement.

Why does the Methodist Church not condemn the use of nuclear weaponry?

As a deterrent against violence

What is the value of peace?

Helps to limit suffering and develop harmony, and provides opportunities to promote mutual respect.

What is absolute pacifism?

The belief that there should be no use of military force whatsoever - whether the cause is just or not is irrelevant.

What is conditional pacifism?

It is the bad consequences of war and violence that make them unacceptable.

There may be a time where the act of war will be less bad than the alternative consequences. War is then considered necessary.

What are three denominations that advocate pacifism?

The Brethren, the Amish, and the Quakers.

When do the Cath and Ang Churches accept the use of force?

In defence of people or Nations but only as a last resort.

What does Jesus teach us to do before we point out wrongdoing in the lives of others?

To deal with the wrongdoing in our own lives.

Who should each individual seek forgiveness from?

Forgiveness must be sought by the individual from God (taught through the Lord's prayer)

What does Paul teach Christians to avoid doing?

Avoid responding to a situation with the attitude of revenge.

What are three benefits of a society that is just?

- Less likely to feel marginalised and reduces terrorism

- Crime is punished appropriately. Adds to a community's sense of safety.

- In diverse communities there is mutual respect.

What is social justice?

Justice in terms of the distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society.

How may Christians respond to social injustice?

They believe that they have a responsibility to stand up for the weak or oppressed.

What is liberation theology?

God has the power to change situations in the world that are unjust. Some Christians have taken this belief to mean that it is right to stand up against governments that oppress their people.

Give an example of a follower of Liberation theology.

In March 1980 Romero was killed by a bullet to the chest, shot whilst he was performing mass. He was the Catholic Archbishop of El Salvador and united Christian people against their oppressive government. Romero believed that murder would not hinder the work of God and his actions would continue through the work of others.

Give an example of an organisation facing social injustice.

The Salvation Army exists to 'save souls, grow saints and serve suffering humanity'. It's aim is to bring salvation to the poor, destitute and hungry. It works in 127 countries around the world to help those involved in trafficking, the homeless and the elderly. They are then recognised and valued as part of society.

Is forgiveness always possible or desirable?

Some do not agree. Forgiveness requires repentance which is a recognition and acceptance by the person in the wrong that their actions were not acceptable.