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Dialogue between religious and non-religious beliefs and attitudes (a) Describe one potential area of disagreement between Judaism and secularism - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 4 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 4
Dialogue between religious and non-religious beliefs and attitudes (a) Describe one potential area of disagreement between Judaism and secularism. (b) Describe the... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Dialogue between religious and non-religious beliefs and attitudes (a) Describe one potential area of disagreement between Judaism and secularism - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 4 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe one potential area of disagreement between Judaism and secularism.
Answer
One potential area of disagreement between Judaism and secularism lies in the concepts of divine authority and moral law. Secularism tends to prioritize human reasoning and societal norms over religious directives. For example, many secularists may advocate for laws that align with individual freedoms and rights, while traditional Judaism upholds the belief that moral laws are derived from the Torah. This fundamental difference can lead to disagreements on issues such as moral values, community practices, and the role of religion in public policy.
Step 2
Describe the attitudes some Jews might have towards the role of the Church of England in public life.
Answer
Some Jews believe that the Church of England holds an influential position in British society, as it has historical ties to governance and social affairs. Many may find this integration of religion in public life concerning, advocating for the separation of church and state to ensure that all religious traditions are respected. Others might feel that while the Church should have a voice, it should not dominate political discourse, arguing instead for an inclusive approach that acknowledges the diversity of faiths present in Britain.
Step 3
Explain why Jews differ in their attitudes to abortion.
Answer
Jews have varying attitudes towards abortion, often interpreting it through the lens of ethical considerations and the sanctity of life. Some view life as beginning at birth and therefore believe abortion can be justified under certain circumstances, such as protecting the health of the mother. Others adhere strictly to the belief that all forms of life are sacred from conception, making abortion unacceptable. Jewish texts, such as the Torah and Talmud, provide diverse interpretations, leading to differentiated beliefs within the community, reflecting a balance between preserving life and considering the complexities of individual circumstances.
Step 4
‘Jews should never proselytise.’ Discuss this statement.
Answer
The statement that 'Jews should never proselytise' can be supported by the understanding that Judaism traditionally does not seek to convert others, emphasizing a belief in the chosen nature of the Jewish people. Many Jews hold that it is the responsibility of each faith to remain true to its teachings without imposing them on others. However, there are perspectives within Judaism that appreciate outreach and education about the faith. For example, learning about Jewish values can promote interfaith dialogue and understanding. Evaluating the various viewpoints reveals that proselytisation can be approached differently within the Jewish community, balancing the commitment to one's faith with a respect for the beliefs of others.