Religious Studies Revision: Nature of Belief and Human Rights

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the nature of belief, the problem of evil, and human/ethical issues related to abortion and life.

Monotheism

The belief that there is one God

Omnipotent

God is all-powerful (i.e. able to do anything logically possible)

Omnibenevolent

God is all-loving and completely good

Omniscient

God is all-knowing

Immanent

God can be experienced personally and is involved in His creation

Transcendent

God is beyond human understanding and outside the limits of time/space

Eternal

God has always existed - no beginning or end

Natural Evil

Things that cause suffering, but aren't obviously or directly caused by human behaviour (e.g. natural disasters, diseases)

Moral Evil

Things that cause suffering that are clearly the result of human behaviour and choices (e.g. wars)

Theodicy

An attempt to rationally defend the existence of God, despite the existence of evil and suffering

Human Rights

Values that are applicable to all humans in society, designed to keep society fair

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Developing machines or computers that can do tasks which would typically require human thinking

Telos

The end result or purpose something has, which enables it to function well

Sanctity of Life

All human life is equally and intrinsically valuable (i.e. it has value just by virtue of being a human life)

Quality of Life

The value of a human life is dependent on certain factors (e.g. a person's happiness, sentience, or ability to contribute meaningfully to society)

Abortion (procured)

The deliberate/induced termination (ending) of a pregnancy

Conception

The point at which an egg is fertilised by sperm, therefore initiating a pregnancy

Point of Viability

The point at which a foetus is believed medically to be able to survive outside the womb (even with assistance)

UK Point of Viability

UK law currently recognises 24 weeks as the point at which a foetus is believed medically to be able to survive outside the womb

Sentience

The ability to have awareness of surroundings and experience sensations and emotions

Personhood

The point at which a being should be regarded as a 'person' with moral and legal value/significance

Pro-Life

An approach to the abortion debate that prioritises protecting the life of the unborn fetus and/or the sanctity of life in general, often favoring strict legal limits or a total ban