Dialogue between religious and non-religious beliefs and attitudes (a) State three occasions when Muslims might join interfaith dialogue - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 4 - 2019 - Paper 1

Muslims may have varied attitudes towards the Church of England, influenced by historical ties and contemporary societal dynamics.

1. Respect for Tradition: Some Muslims respect the Church's long-standing role, viewing it as an integral part of British heritage. This respect may manifest in acknowledging the Church's contributions to societal values, particularly in moral and humanitarian contexts.

2. Concerns over Dominance: Conversely, some Muslims may perceive the Church's role as potentially marginalizing other faiths. They may believe that the Church’s established status could overshadow the voices of minority religions and promote a form of cultural hegemony in discussions surrounding public ethics and policy.

3. Desire for Precise Identity Recognition: There are also those who advocate for a clearer separation between Church and state, seeking recognition and respect for the diverse religious identities within Britain, arguing that public life should be inclusive and equitable for all faiths.

Muslims' opposition to secularism often stems from their belief in the importance of spiritual authority in guiding personal and communal life.

1. Religious Obligations: Many Muslims view Islam not just as a set of beliefs but as a comprehensive way of life. Secularism, which separates religion from public affairs, can lead to conflicts with their religious obligations, such as political participation that aligns with Islamic values.

2. Moral Framework: Secularism may also challenge the moral teachings of Islam. For instance, some Muslims may argue that a purely secular worldview fails to address ethical questions effectively and that divine guidance provides a necessary foundation for moral decision-making.

3. Source of Authority: Some Muslims might also express concern over the authority of secularism in defining societal norms. They may prefer to refer to the Quran and Hadith as primary sources of wisdom that inform their understanding of justice, rights, and community welfare, rather than secular ideologies.

The discourse surrounding genetic manipulation within Islamic perspective is multifaceted and requires careful examination of ethical considerations.

1. Understanding Genetic Manipulation: Genetic manipulation involves altering the genetic makeup of organisms, which raises ethical concerns about playing a 'creator' role. Some argue that such actions might overstep human limitations imposed by divine will.

2. Islamic Teachings: Many Muslims refer to Quranic principles emphasizing stewardship of the Earth and preserving creation when discussing bioethical issues. They may see genetic modifications as a potential threat to natural order and divine intentions.

3. Arguments For and Against Participation:

   • Against Participation: Critics argue that genetic manipulation can lead to unforeseen consequences and unethical practices, such as designer babies, which contradicts the equality of human beings.
   • For Participation: Conversely, proponents argue that genetic manipulation can be employed for medical advancements (e.g., curing genetic diseases), aligning with the Islamic principle of saving lives and alleviating suffering.

4. Conclusion: Ultimately, the acceptance of genetic manipulation may depend on specific circumstances, emphasizing a careful balance between technological advancement and religious ethical frameworks. It calls for a nuanced understanding rather than a blanket rejection or acceptance.