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Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow - English General - NSC Religion Studies - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 2
Question 3
Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow. You might think that religion is universal and that all human beings are religious in one way or anothe... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read the extract below and answer the questions that follow - English General - NSC Religion Studies - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 2
Step 1
3.1 Name ONE secular world view and discuss its origin.
Answer
One secular world view is Secular Humanism. This concept first emerged in the 1950s as a branch of humanism, which originally was a religious term referring to individuals who studied classical literature and education during the Renaissance.
Secular humanism came into prominence because philosophers recognized the need for an alternative to religious explanations of the world. This world view asserts that human beings can lead ethical lives based on reason and science rather than religious beliefs. The Council for Secular Humanism, founded in 1980, reflects the beliefs of its adherents, emphasizing a desire for a secular-based approach to understanding human existence. The evolution of this perspective has enabled individuals to seek meaning and purpose outside of traditional religious frameworks.
Step 2
3.2 Critically evaluate the impact of secularism on the religious community.
Answer
Secularism has significantly influenced religious communities by promoting religious freedom and tolerance. In secular states, all religions are recognized as equal, allowing individuals to worship in their unique ways. Additionally, secularism encourages peaceful coexistence by ensuring that the state does not favor any religion over another.
However, it has also led to challenges for religious institutions as secular perspectives can diminish the authority or influence of organized religions in public life. This shift has prompted many to re-evaluate or reinterpret religious texts, promoting a dynamic dialogue between religious and secular beliefs.
Step 3
3.3 Briefly explain the Big Bang theory.
Answer
The Big Bang Theory posits that the universe began with a massive explosion approximately 13.7 billion years ago. Initially, it was a singular point that expanded to form space and time. The theory suggests that from this explosion, the universe has been continuously expanding to its current state.
In the initial moments, high temperatures and energies dominated, leading to the creation of fundamental particles and eventually atoms. These primordial elements formed stars and galaxies. The Big Bang Theory also posits that there was a period of rapid expansion known as cosmic inflation, which shaped the structure of the universe as we know it today.
Step 4
3.4 With reference to any ONE Abrahamic religion, compare its teachings regarding the creation of man with the teachings of Darwin's theory of evolution.
Answer
Considering Christianity, the teaching in the Book of Genesis describes God creating man in His own image. This narrative suggests a purposeful act of creation, distinct from other forms of life, which stands in contrast to Darwin's theory of evolution that explains the development of species, including humans, through natural selection.
Darwin’s theory posits that human beings evolved from a common ancestor shared with primates over millions of years, challenging the literal interpretation of the creation story in Genesis. This has led to significant discussion and debate within Christian communities regarding the compatibility of faith and scientific understanding.