Religious Studies GCSE The Course is split into two parts: 1. Religion and Life based on a study of Christianity and at least one other religion. Areas of study include: Believing in God - the philosophy of religion; why people do or do not believe in God; religious upbringing and how the media affects people's belief in God. Matters of Life and Death - why human life is so special; religious view on life and death; attitudes to abortion and euthanasia. Marriage and the Family - sex, marriage and bringing up the family; divorce or not; homosexuality and contraception. Community Cohesion - sexism; racism; relationships between religions in multi-faith societies. 2. Religion and Society based on a study of Christianity and at least one other religion. Areas of study include: Rights and Responsibility - Christian ethics; human rights, genetic engineering and cloning. Environment and Medical Issues - pollution; conservation and animal rights; fertility treatment; genetic engineering and transplant surgery. Peace and Conflict - religious ethics including war; teachings on forgiveness and violence in society.