AS / A2 Philosophy

WHY TAKE THIS COURSE?
Have you ever thought about why you think what you think? Whether what you see and hear is real? Why should you obey the law? Whether humans can live together harmoniously? What it means to live a ‘moral’ life? Whether you are really a free agent?

These are the kinds of questions philosophers ask. In both AS and A2 level Philosophy you will come into contact with a range of challenging and stimulating ideas.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?
The AS Philosophy course is divided into four topics: Reason and Experience; Why should I be Moral?; Tolerance; and The Problem of Free Will and Determinism. At AS level the specification concentrates on a number of key philosophical questions, intended to introduce you to philosophy.

At A2, you will specialise further, selecting two themes to study in depth and focusing on philosophical problems through the study of a key text: Nietzsche’s Beyond Good and Evil and also Philosophy of Religion and Political Philosophy.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
At both AS and A2 level assessment is by examination. At AS both examinations require two detailed essay style responses. At A2 the examinations require highly developed analytical, critical and evaluative skills.

WHAT SKILLS AND SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED?
You will need to be an independent and self-motivated learner and have very strong written and oral communication skills. Much of the course will require discussion and a grasp of complex ideas. Assessment is by written essay, requiring high level writing skills, and the ability to read and comprehend challenging texts. You will develop your knowledge of the most profound areas of human thought, as well as your abilities to discuss complex ideas in both verbal and in written formats.

ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS I NEED?
A high standard of English will be required for the study of Philosophy at AS and A2 and therefore we require a GCSE pass of grade B or above in English.

WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
Students who study Philosophy go on to pursue a variety of careers including Teaching, Public Services, Caring Professions and jobs within the private sector. Philosophy is also an excellent subject that gives you a good grounding for many degree programmes.

PRIESTLEY EXTRA
Philosophy is a highly regarded subject that will strongly support university applications. There will be an opportunity to attend a visit to a Philosophy Conference.