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(a) Outline three Hindu beliefs about peacemaking - Edexcel - GCSE Religious Studies B - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 4
(a) Outline three Hindu beliefs about peacemaking. (b) Explain two Hindu attitudes to weapons of mass destruction. (c) Explain two Hindu teachings about passive re... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:(a) Outline three Hindu beliefs about peacemaking - Edexcel - GCSE Religious Studies B - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline three Hindu beliefs about peacemaking.
Answer
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Ahimsa (Non-violence): Hindus believe in the principle of ahimsa, which advocates for non-violence in thought, word, and deed. This belief promotes peaceful resolutions to conflicts rather than resorting to violence.
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Satyagraha (Truth Force): This concept involves seeking truth and justice through non-violent means. It was notably practiced by Mahatma Gandhi and emphasizes the moral power of truth as a method for achieving social change.
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Dharma (Duty): Hindus believe that following one’s dharma (moral and ethical duties) contributes to societal peace. Acting according to dharma fosters harmony in relationships and communities.
Step 2
Explain two Hindu attitudes to weapons of mass destruction.
Answer
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Rejection of WMDs: Many Hindus view weapons of mass destruction, such as nuclear arms, as contrary to the principle of ahimsa. The potential for mass violence and destruction opposes the core teachings of compassion and respect for life.
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Moral Responsibility: There is a belief that Hindu texts advocate for the preservation of life, which leads to the conclusion that utilizing such weapons represents a moral failure. Hindus are encouraged to consider the ethical implications and the suffering caused by such weapons.
Step 3
Explain two Hindu teachings about passive resistance.
Answer
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Satyagraha: As mentioned earlier, this principle, developed by Mahatma Gandhi from Hindu teachings, advocates for non-violent resistance in the face of injustice. It draws on the belief that enduring suffering without retaliating is a powerful form of social protest.
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Guru’s Teachings: Hinduism emphasizes the importance of listening to a guru, who provides wisdom and guidance on moral dilemmas. Passive resistance, aligned with teachings from texts like the Bhagavad Gita, encourages individuals to stand firm against oppression without resorting to violence.
Step 4
Evaluate this statement considering arguments for and against.
Answer
Arguments for the Statement:
- Power Struggles: Many conflicts arise from power struggles, political oppression, or economic disparities rather than religious motivations. For example, historical events have shown that territorial disputes often lead to conflict.
- Secular Conflict: Issues like nationalism and cultural identity can be viewed as primary conflict drivers, overshadowing religious aspects. Many conflicts, like those in Rwanda and the former Yugoslavia, were as much about ethnic identities as they were about religion.
Arguments Against the Statement:
- Religious Extremism: On the contrary, various conflicts throughout history, such as the Crusades and various jihadist movements, have been directly fueled by religious ideologies, suggesting that religion plays a significant role.
- Cultural Values: Religions instill values that can lead followers to conflict, indicating that religious beliefs shape moral frameworks and societal laws, which can lead to clashes.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while religion may not always be the primary cause of conflict, its influence cannot be overlooked. Understanding both religious and non-religious perspectives is crucial for a holistic comprehension of the roots of conflict.