Full Time Philosophy AS/A2

Philosophy AS/A2
Have you ever asked yourself difficult questions like 'Is there a God!' or 'Are we really free?' If you have, then you will enjoy Philosophy. Philosophy appeals to students who are interested in discussing the really big questions in life; and who enjoy reading, thinking deeply and expressing their ideas in discussion and essays.

What will I study?
Throughout the course you will develop skills in providing and evaluating arguments, and study the way in which philosophers throughout history have challenged accepted thinking and sought out the fundamental truths about the universe, our lives and ourselves.

AS: The first year covers an introduction to Philosophy. A series of six week units will explore general philosophical questions such as: Why should I be governed? Why should I be moral? Is there a God?

A2: In the second year you will look in more detail at a specific aspect of philosophy; either philosophy of religion or political philosophy. This is followed by a detailed study of one philosopher (Plato, Nietzsche, Hume, Descartes or Mill) and their contribution to philosophy and the previously studied topics.

How will I be assessed?
AS: There will be two written exams.

A2: There will be two written exams.

What can I do next?
The vast majority of students - even those who go on to take the subject at University - are not going to become philosophers! But philosophy does fine tune your reasoning so that your enhanced skills and critical thinking can be applied to many different careers such as law, politics, the civil services, journalism, advertising and education.