Violence and terrorism (AQA GCSE Religious Studies A): Revision Notes

Violence and terrorism

Understanding violence

Violence refers to behaviour that involves physical force with the intention to hurt, damage, or potentially kill others. In today's society, we can see various forms of violence, including violent protests and acts of terrorism. Christianity teaches that people should strive for peace, making it fundamentally opposed to terrorism and unnecessary violence.

Christian beliefs about violence

Christians hold strong beliefs about violence based on their faith and biblical teachings. These beliefs shape how they respond to conflict and guide their approach to building peaceful communities.

1. Biblical guidance for peace

The Bible offers clear direction on how Christians should approach conflicts, emphasising peace, reconciliation, and justice. These teachings form the foundation for how believers should respond to violent situations.

2. Divine calling for peace

Christians understand that working for peace is not optional but a fundamental duty. They believe this peaceful approach reflects God's intentions for humanity and represents their calling as followers of Christ.

3. Following Jesus' example

Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate model for Christians, having demonstrated peaceful responses to conflict throughout his ministry. His teachings about peace and his personal example of choosing non-violence over retaliation guide Christian behaviour.

Biblical teachings on violence

The Bible contains specific guidance about how Christians should respond to violence. These teachings provide clear direction for believers facing conflict situations.

Another powerful example shows Jesus' direct response to violence and demonstrates the Christian principle of choosing healing over harm:

Christian pacifism

Some Christians adopt a pacifist stance, completely rejecting any form of violence. These believers interpret Christian teachings as requiring absolute non-violence, regardless of the circumstances. This represents the most extreme application of Christian peace teachings.

Understanding terrorism

Terrorism involves using violence deliberately to create fear among populations. The primary goal is not necessarily to cause maximum casualties but to spread terror and intimidation. Those who carry out terrorist attacks often believe their actions serve a greater purpose, which can make them particularly dangerous as they may not consider the moral implications of their choices.

Historical context of terrorism

Terrorism has deep historical roots that help us understand its development and evolution over time:

• Ancient origins: The roots of terrorist-like activities can be traced back to the 1st century, often arising from disputes between different groups and involving assassinations
• Term development: The word "terrorism" first gained prominence during the French Revolution
• Modern escalation: In contemporary times, terrorist acts have become more frequent, with specific countries or groups being targeted

Christian beliefs about terrorism

Christians universally reject terrorism based on several core principles that are fundamental to their faith. These principles create an absolute opposition to terrorist activities.

Sanctity of life

Christians believe all human life is sacred because it is created by God. This fundamental belief makes taking innocent life through terrorist acts morally wrong and incompatible with Christian values.

Teachings on peace and harmony

Christianity contains extensive teachings about living peacefully with others and building harmonious communities. These teachings directly contradict the fear and division that terrorism seeks to create.

Opposition to Jesus' teachings

Terrorism fundamentally conflicts with Jesus' teachings about peace, love, and reconciliation. Since Jesus consistently taught and demonstrated peaceful solutions to conflict, terrorism represents a complete rejection of his example.

Non-religious attitudes towards terrorism

While Christians have clear religious grounds for opposing terrorism, people from non-religious backgrounds also hold strong views about violence and terrorism, though their reasoning may differ.

Secular criticisms of religion

Some non-religious people, including atheists and humanists, argue that religion itself contributes to global conflict and terrorism. They suggest that without religious divisions, there would be significantly less terrorism in the world.

Pragmatic approaches to violence

While many non-religious people generally oppose violence, some may argue that certain situations require violent responses to achieve peace. This might include supporting military action or other forms of force when they believe it will prevent greater suffering or bring about lasting peace.

These differing perspectives highlight the complexity of addressing terrorism and violence in a world with diverse religious and philosophical viewpoints.