biological weapons Weapons that have living organisms or infective material that can lead to disease or death.
chemical weapons Weapons that use chemicals to poison, burn, paralyse humans and the natural environment.
conscience The inner feeling that you are doing right or wrong.
conscientious objectors People who object to fighting in a war because killing is against their conscience.
deterrent A way of discouraging an enemy attack by being able to retaliate.
disarmament When a country gets rid of its weapons.
Geneva Conventions Rules about war and the treatment of prisoners and civilians.
holy war Fighting for a religious cause or God probably controlled by a religious leader.
Just War A war that the Christian Church defines as acceptable: this must fit certain criteria. The idea was developed by St Thomas
Aquinas and the Roman Catholic Church.
justice Bringing about what is right, fair, according to the law or making up for a wrong that has been committed.
NATO North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, an alliance formed to prevent war in Europe.
nuclear proliferation The increase in the number of states that have the potential to use nuclear weapons.
nuclear weapons Weapons that work by a nuclear reaction that devastate huge areas and kill large numbers of people.
pacifism The belief of people who refuse to take part in war and any other form of violence.
peace An absence of war and conflict, which leads to happiness and harmony.
peace keeping force Troops sent by a group of countries to act as a buffer between warring parties, or to keep the peace after hostilities
cease.
quality of Life A measure of fulfilment.
refugees People who flee from their homes seeking safety elsewhere.
religious prejudice Prejudice based on religion or beliefs.
sacred Holy, precious because given by God.
sanctity of life Life is sacred because it is God-given.
terrorism When groups use violence, or the threat of violence, to achieve their aims, rather than using a democratic process. The
violence is often indiscriminate and intended to create an atmosphere of fear.
United Nations (UN) An organisation set up at the end of World War II to prevent war and encourage peace by discussing problems
between countries.
victims of prejudice People who have experienced prejudice or discrimination against themselves.
victims of war People who are harmed or suffer as a result of war.
‘War on Terror’ Action taken after 9/11 to tighten security, prevent future attacks and destroy terrorist organisations.
War and peace
Causes of War
Wars are usually fought to gain wealth or power. A nation might want to
acquire land, minerals resources or better trading opportunities.
Sometimes wars are fought out of revenge. If a previous conflict ended
badly for one side or the peace terms were humiliating. It is said that the
Treaty of Versailles at the end of the First World was so unfair for
Germany that it lead to Germany starting the Second World. Sometimes
a specific action may lead to war as retaliation.
Some modern
conflicts have been
ideological (about a
set of beliefs or ideas)
to assert a particular
way of life or set of
beliefs. They may
have been political,
nationalist or
religious.
Wars may be defensive in response to acts of aggression. In 1939,
Britain went to war when Germany attacked Poland. Britain had
promised to defend Poland in the event of invasion. Wars to protect
human rights are often civil wars, but sometimes one country will
intervene to support another.
Consequences of war
Positive consequences may be:
Freedom from an occupying power
The replacement of a corrupt government with something better.
Negative consequences may be:
Death: in modern wars most deaths are civilian
Injury: again the vast majority are civilians
Disease:
Refugees:
Famine:
Mental illness due to traumatic experiences
Kidnapping of children to be used as soldiers
Destruction of relationships, culture and the economy
Destruction of buildings, homes, factories, hospitals etc.
The United Nations (UN)
The UN was set up at the end of the Second Word War for countries
to discuss international issues. It was hoped to make war a thing of
the past. The UN is occasionally involved in war, for example the
1990 war against Iraq. Member nations supply the troops. One of
the most important roles is the provision of peace-keeping forces
The Geneva Conventions
This refers to a set of rules which govern war and the treatment of
prisoners of war. Most nations have signed up to the conventions, at
least in part. Breach of the conventions is referred to the UN, and it
may result in a war-crimes tribunal.
Types of weapons and warfare
Atomic (nuclear) warfare
Increasingly more sophisticated weapons are being developed to give
their users an advantage over their enemies. An easy way to remember
the different types of warfare is: conventional + ABC
Conventional warfare
In August 1945 the USA dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and
Nagasaki in Japan. Hundreds of thousands dies and people are still
affected by the radio-activity. The USA justified its action by saying that
it ended the Second World War more quickly.
Conventional warfare uses everything from bows an arrows to
computer-m operated missiles. Huge amounts of money are spent on
improving weapons and developing new types. This is good for the
economy. Britain is one of the biggest arms exporters.
Today’s atomic weapons are much more powerful, and their use would
mean:
Recently people have campaigned against the use of cluster bombs,
which cause horrific injuries. At the end of the last century many
protested about the use of landmines. These may be planted across
huge areas of land, often with no map to show their positions. Long
after the war is over they cause death or terrible mutilation, often to
children playing in the fields or women going to fetch water. Britain
has now banned their use, though companies can still make them for
export to other countries.
Although state of the art weapons can be aimed at specific targets to
avoid killing civilians, sometimes mistakes are made and civilians are
hit.
• a nuclear winter of very low temperatures lasting for months
•A 50% increase in ultraviolet radiation, which would destroy life on
Earth.
Many countries have nuclear weapons. They are believed to be a
deterrent. A country with atomic weapons is less likely to be attacked.
Many people want to see the numbers of nuclear weapons reduced.
Multilateral disarmament is when countries get rid of weapons by
mutual agreement. The USA and the Soviet Union did this in the last
century, though both nations still posses atomic weapons. Unilateral
disarmament is when countries get rid of weapons regardless of what
other nations do. The Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND) is an
organisation which unilateral disarmament claiming that it would set a
good example to other nations. Opponents argue that to get rid of
weapons would make a country vulnerable.
The growth of nuclear weapons and
the fear that irresponsible
governments or terrorist might obtain
them is a major concern. The main
reason Tony Blair gave for the war
against Iraq was that it was
developing weapons of mass
destruction. including biological and
chemical weapons, though no
evidence of this has been found.
There are now concerns about the
nuclear programmes of Ian and
North Korea.
Biological weapons.
Biological weapons consist of living organisms or infective material that
lead to disease or death e.g. anthrax and ricin. There is a danger that
they could enter the food chain or pollute the atmosphere, leading to
illness and death on a massive scale. Their use has been banned under
the Geneva Conventions.
Chemical weapons.
Mustard gas was used in the First world war by both Britain and
Germany. Chemical weapons wee banned in 1925, but they were used
by the USA in Vietnam and by Iraq against Iran and the Kurds.
Different types of Chemical weapons can cause choking, paralysis and
destruction of the environment.
The Just war theory.
Holy war
Many people believe that there may be occasions when war is justified
as the lesser of two evils. Christians developed a set of 8 conditions
which if each were met it would be just/right to go to war. The war
must be fought:
Holy war is a war fought for religion. The belief is that God is on
your side, fighting alongside you, and that your enemies are God’s
enemies. In the Old Testament Bible, Joshua and his soldiers
believed they were fighting on behalf of God against his enemies.
When they captured the city, they slaughtered its inhabitants,
thinking that was what God wanted.
•By a proper authority: the ruler of the country concerned.
•In a just cause : this is restricted to defence.
•With right intent: the aims must be just and, once they have been
achieved, the war must end.
•With reasonable chance of success.
•To ensure a better future.
•As a last resort: everything possible must be done to avoid war.
•By just means: there must be no killing of civilians
•With proportionate force: excessive use of force is ruled out.
The Crusades are an example of Christian holy war. In the Middle
ages the Pope declared that it was God’s will that armies from
many countries in Europe should capture Jerusalem from the
occupying Muslims. The crusades were terrible wars with
atrocities. Christians today see the Crusades as a stain on Christian
history and want to apologise to Muslims for what happened.
Almost all Christians now believe the idea of Holy War is barbaric.
Irish Republican Army.
Terrorism
Terrorism are extreme acts of violence to impose political views.
The victims are often random members of the public. Sometimes
terrorists target those they blame for injustice and oppression
(treating somebody cruelly and unfairly) e.g. the government of a
particular country, but they almost always harm innocents. This is
to achieve maximum publicity and terrify the public. Those
motivated by religion believe that they are doing God’s will and
will be rewarded for it. Suicide bombers believe that they will be
ETA
transported to paradise immediately, without having to wait for
the Day of Judgement
Recent terrorist incidents include
Al-Qaeda attacks on 9/11 New York and 7/7 London
Most people claim that terrorism can never be just because:
Violence is indiscriminate
Its is a weapon of fear and coercion (?)
It exploits the innocent to promote its purpose.
I.R.A. bombing Omagh.
Palestine Liberation Organisation.
ETA car bomb attack Spain.
Some people believe on rare occasions there is no terrorism is
Al-Qaeda
justified. For oppressed people who have tried every other means
of putting right the injustice they have suffered but have got
nowhere, such violence is the only way of making the world take
notice.
7/7 bombing London
Hamas attack Israel.
Pacifism
Pacifists (people who are against war and violence) believe that violence against
other human beings is wrong. They are opposed to war, believing that it is never
the lesser of two evils.
Arguments for pacifism.
Arguments against pacifism.
Beliefs about human life
The right to life is not absolute.
•Everyone has the right to life
•A person who attacks another loses that right.
•Life is sacred.
•Some lives may be sacrificed to protect others
•Lives should be treated with respect
•All are part of the human family
War causes immense suffering
War limits suffering
•Modern methods of fighting harm the innocent
•It can protect and defend the innocent
•The suffering caused is out of all proportion to the evil being fought.
•The just war conditions ensure proportional violence.
•The suffering may affect future generations.
War is a waste of resources
•Refusal to fight may make aggressors think that they can do
whatever they want, and this may result in more suffering.
War can be a wise use of resources.
•The money spent on weapons would solve social problems and meet
some global needs
•Wars that are fought to end injustice may save resources in the
long run because greedy oppressors waste resources.
•Money should be spent on saving lives, not destroying them
•War causes irreparable damage to the environment
•War uses up precious minerals and other resources.
Wars bring out the worst in people
War bring out the best in people
•E.g. greed and prejudice
•E.g. courage and compassion (pity or mercy)
Some religious attitudes to war and
peace.
Sikhism.
Buddhism.
Buddhists see peace
and compassion as all
– important. The
principle of ahimsa is
opposed to war, as
violence harms both the
aggressor and the
victim. Buddhism’s
ideal is pacifism.
When the faith first started, Sikhs
were pacifists. They still think that
peace is what God wants, but
they accept war when:
it is the last resort,
religious faith is under threat,
minimum force is used,
hired soldiers are not used,
there is no looting of enemy
property.
Holy War.
Some people think that a holy
war can be justified because:
it is fought in the name of
God, they believe that that
God fights alongside the army
against the enemy, the
nation’s enemies are God’s
enemies so must be
destroyed.
Pacifism is the
belief that all use of
The Crusades – wars waged
Sanctity of life is the idea that
violence is wrong
by Christian Europe to regain
all life is precious and special.
and that no wars
the Holy Places in Palestine
This is usually because it is
can ever be
from Muslims - were holy
unique. Religious people
justified. Pacifists
wars.
believe God creates life, and
refuse to fight, but
that its why it is special.
will work in medical
units or as
stretcher- bearers Conscientious objectors. These people are often, but not
necessarily, pacifist. They refuse to fight in a particular war
because they feel it is unjustified.
Religious viewpoints.
Religious believers all take the following concepts into account:
•Peace: all people have the right to develop their potential free from
fear of harm
Christians who are not pacifist believe that Jesus teachings started an
ideal that reconciliation is preferable to conflict. The Catholic church
states that the avoidance of conflict is the ideal, however sometimes war
is necessary. It supports the just war theory.
•Justice: each person has the right to fair and equal treatment
•Sanctity of life: each life is sacred (God given), special and unique.
Christianity
Most Christian denominations contain some who are pacifist and some
who are not.
Christian pacifist believe that everyone is a child of God and should
never be harmed by a fellow human being. All humans are in the image
of God and their bodies are ‘temples of the Holy Spirit’, deserving
absolute respect. Life is a precious gift from God. Jesus encouraged
forgiveness and reconciliation (make people who have quarrelled
become friendly again) as the way to solve problems.
“You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a
tooth.” But I say to you that you must not oppose those who want to
hurt you. If people slap you on your right cheek, you must turn the left
cheek to them as well.
Jesus taught “love your enemies and pray for those who harass you.”
When Jesus was arrested, one of his disciples took out a sword to
defend him. ‘Put your sword back in its place,’ Jesus said to him, ‘All
who take the sword will die by the sword.’
Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a Christian
pacifist. He lived at the time of Hitler’s
rise to power. What he saw made him
reject his pacifist principles. He was
imprisoned for opposing the
government. After his release, he joined
a secret resistance movement that
planned the assassination of Hitler.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer was imprisoned in
1942 and executed in 1945.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer
The Buddhist attitude to war and peace.
The Buddhist message is one of p_____. If we are peaceful, so is the
w_____. Buddhists live by the Five P______. One of these is not to
h_____ others. They should try to h____ others. So war goes against that.
Buddhists believe in r________. Killing people in war will have a bad
effect on their
f_______ l______. Buddhists do not have j____ which can hurt others.
This is because they follow the E________ Path, which says they should
have Right L_______.
In war, Buddhists won’t f_____ in the war, because they believe in
showing l___________ k_________.
The Quakers (Society of Friends) Quakers are another Christian pacifist
group. In history the Quakers have also protested against war. They are also
conscientious objectors who will not fight but they will help out in war.
During the first and second world wars many volunteered as members of the
medical staff and many lost their lives trying to rescue injured soldiers from
the battlefield. Some do relief work and some act as mediators between sides,
trying to help them out with disagreements.
harm, future, help, fight, world, help, lives, jobs, Eightfold, reincarnation,
future, peace, Precepts, Livelihood, harmed, loving kindness.
Pacifism. Peace.Throughout history there have always been people who
have refused to use violence. These people are known as pacifists, which
basically means “peace makers”. Pacifists do not believe in using violence
at all. They follow Jesus’ example and Saint Paul’s teachings. These
include trying to overcome evil with good, to never take revenge, and to
live peacefully. In the case of war, pacifists have refused to fight for their
nation, claiming to be conscientious objectors. Their conscience tells them
to object when they are called up (conscripted) to the armed forces. During
the second world war, under the Nazi government, Jehovah’s witnesses
and many other German conscientious objectors were imprisoned and
executed because they refused to fight against the allies.
1.What do pacifists believe?
2.Why are some people called conscientious objectors?
Concentration Camp Arm Band for
Jehovah's Witness .
Quakers believe that there is no reason good enough for war. At the end of the
day, too many people die, too much money is spent on hurting others, and the
sides resent each other even more.
4. What did Quakers do during world wars one and two? 5. Why did they
choose not to fight?
‘Christians should never fight.’ Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer,
showing that you have thought about more than one point of view. Refer to
Christian arguments in your answer.
Agree
Violence just encourages more violence.
Examples set by: Conscientious objectors
(Jehovah’s Witnesses and Quakers).
Jesus. When Jesus was being arrested he said
“Put your sword back in its place for all who
live by the sword will die by the sword”.
Jesus said “Blessed be the peace makers”.
’Love your enemy’.
3. Watch the video clip. Describe what happened to many German Jehovah’s Witnesses
in Nazi Germany and explain why these things happened?
Other views
Refusal to fight seen as weakness to be taken
advantage of.
Some leaders are so corrupt, aggressive/only
force will lead to change.
Do Jesus’ teachings relate to war?
Examples set by: Conscientious objectors,
Quakers.
Jesus became angry when people were
misusing god’s Temple: He overturned the
tables of the money changers and the benches
of those selling doves.
Hinduism
Mahatma Ghandhi
Some Hindus are against violence in believing that good karma is built up by
not harming other living things (ahimsa). They overcome injustice and
oppression (treating somebody cruelly and unfairly) through non-violent
protest and civil disobedience
Good
Most Hindus believe war is justified if:
Their land is invaded by an enemy
The power to govern has been wrongly seized
karma by
not harming
other living
things.
People are exploited or oppressed (make unfair use of someone or something)
In these cases armed conflict may build up good karma
The kshatriyas are a caste/class/group of people in Hindu society whose duty
it is to protect the people. They should fight fairly and should not harm those
who:
Have surrendered or begged for mercy
Are asleep, no longer armed or are wounded
Are onlookers or are civilians.
A Holy book tells the story of Arjuna (a kshatriya) who did not want to take
up weapons against his countrymen. Krishna (an avatar of the preserver God
Vishnu) told Arjuna it was his duty to fight. Krishna reminded Arjuna that he
would not be fighting for selfish reasons but for the good of humanity, and in
that case he would not kill his enemies soul (atman). All he could kill was the
body that housed the soul.
Was influenced by the idea of ahimsa (non-violence). While living as a
lawyer in South Africa. He responded to the racism in South Africa
with non- violent passive resistance. On returning to India he found the
same prejudice from its British rulers. When he became leader of the
Indian National Congress he encouraged his fellow Indians to strive
for independence by a policy of civil disobedience using a variety of
non- violent passive resistance methods e.g. protest marches, sit-ins,
sit downs, strikes, fasts etc He campaigned against the caste system and
did all he could to create trust between Hindus and Muslims (An eye
for an eye would make the whole world blind) Ghandhi was
assassinated in 1948.
Islam.
The word ‘Islam’ means ‘submission’ and it has connections
with the Arabic word for ‘peace’. The Muslim greeting
‘Salaam’ means ‘peace’. The Quran stressed the importance
of being willing to pardon (forgive) others.
‘Those … who restrain anger, and pardon (all) men … For
such the reward is forgiveness from their Lord …’
Jihad.
The Greater Jihad refers to the everyday struggle of all
Muslims to resist the temptations of the Devil and fulfil the
will of Allah.
The Lesser Jihad is the military Jihad. It is fought to enable
Muslims to practise their faith freely. If a government makes
this impossible or a nation is threatened with invasion,
Muslims must try first of all to solve the problem
peacefully. If this fails, then force must be used.
The rules for Jihad.
1. A religious leader must start and lead it (not a politician)
2. The cause must be just (given proper consideration) in the
name of Allah.)
3. It must be in defence against oppression
4. It must be aimed at restoring justice, freedom of worship and
peace
5. It must be aimed at achieving good, not evil.
6. It must be the last resort
7. Enemies must be treated humanely, and as soon as they are
defeated the war must end; there must be no revenge taken
8. Civilians must not be made to suffer, there should be no
indiscriminate killing
9. Nature, trees, crops and animals should be protected.
Those who fight selflessly and courageously will be rewarded by
Allah. Sins will be rewarded immediately with entry to paradise.
Muhammad taught his followers not to be filled with hatred for
their enemies, for one day they might be their friends.
Holy war?
Fighting for a religious cause or God, probably controlled by a
religious leader.
Q1.‘No one who is religious can be a terrorist.’ Do you agree?
Q2 Watch the trailer for the film “Four lions” Why would many
Muslims not regard the four lions as fighting a Holy War? Refer
to source C
Source C. Jihad/Holy war.
1.War is justified if it will bring freedom from tyranny, combat
evil, restore peace and justice.
2.It must not be used to colonise, impose Islam or suppress non
believers.
3.The sick, elderly, women and children should not be harmed.
The natural world should not be damaged.
4. Jihad must be declared by a religious leader, not a politician.
Jihad must be in the name of Allah (God).
5.Dying in the service of Allah (God) turns a Muslim into a
martyr. True martyrs go straight to paradise as an instant
reward.
Q3. What do sources A, B, C, D (video clip) and E, tell you
about the London Bombings of July 2005?
Source A. 7th July 2005 Hasib Hussain: at 18, detonated his
bomb on the top deck of a double-decker bus at 9:47 a.m.
Fourteen people, including Hussain, perished in the
explosion in Tavistock Square London. The terrorist group
al-Qaeda claimed it was responsible for the attacks. It
claimed it had carried out the attacks to get revenge on
Britain for "massacres" in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Source E.
Source B. British Muslim Forum states Islam condemns the
use of violence and the destruction of innocent lives and says
suicide bombings are "vehemently prohibited". "We pray for the
defeat of extremism and terrorism in the world. "We pray for the
peace, security and harmony to triumph in multicultural Great
Britain.“
Source D ITV News: Moderate Muslims Speak Out!
Q4. ‘No one who is religious can be a terrorist.’ Do you agree?
Give reasons for your answer. Refer to religion in your answer.
1. Religions teach about peace
2. Love your neighbour …
3. Wrong to kill indiscriminately
(not making a careful
choice who killing)…
4. Wrong to scare people …
5. Should work with and follow
the government’s
decisions …
1. Seen by some as freedom
fighters …
2. Maybe be protecting their
religion …
3. Conditions of jihad …
4. Maybe fighting against an
injustice …,
5. The government may not be
protecting its citizens?
Judaism
The concept of peace is at the heart of Judaism. The everyday greeting
‘Shalom means ‘peace’
Most Jews are not pacifist. Wars are either milchemet mitzvah
(obligatory/ must do war) or milchemet reshut (optional war)
Milchemet mitzvah (obligatory / must do war)
•A war fought in self defence.
•A pre-emptive strike in order to avoid being attacked.
•A war to help neighbouring countries – so that your own country is not
invaded.
•A war commanded by God.
The Six Day War was an obligatory war. In 1967, Israel launched a
series of attacks against its much larger Arab neighbours, destroying the
Egyptian air force on the ground. After six days fighting, Israel had won
a war against Egypt, Jordan and Syria.
Milchemet reshut (optional war)
•There are good reasons for it
•It is the last resort
No war should be fought to colonise or take revenge. This is forbidden.
Those who die in battle as martyrs are known as the holy ones (Kiddush
Hashem).
Sikhism Sikhs believe in the
principle of ahimsa (not
harming living things). Guru
Nanak the founder of Sikhism
was a pacifist. He said that if
someone was hurt, he should
put up with it three times. If it
happened a fourth time, then
God would come to his
defence.
Guru Nanak.
Later Gurus (Sikh
teachers) recognised
the need for defence
of oneself and one’s
faith.
Guru Gobind Singh.
One of the 5ks is the kirpan
(ceremonial dagger). This was originally used in self – defence,
but became a symbol of religious freedom.
Dharam yudh (War in defence of righteousness – a just war) is
allowed when
It is a defence
Every other possible solution has been attempted
There is no desire for revenge
Any land or property taken in the war is returned as soon as it end
Three is no looting
Civilians are not harmed
Mercenaries (hired soldiers) are not used, as those fighting must
believe in the cause
Minimum force is used
‘Christians should never fight. ’What do you think? Explain your
opinion. Refer to Christian teachings in your answer. (3 marks)
Which teachings below allow/do not allow a Christian to fight and
why? Give reasons for your choice.
1. Christians are taught about the sanctity of life, so all human life is
sacred/holy. This teaching shows Christians should/should never fight
because …
2. The Bible teaches that God has placed rulers in power so Christians
should obey them if they tell them to go to war. This teaching shows
Christians should/should never fight because …
3. Jesus taught “Blessed are the peace makers.” This teaching shows
Christians should/should never fight because …
4. The Bible teaches that people should fight against evil. This teaching
shows Christians should/should never fight because …
5. When Jesus was being arrested a friend tried to protect him. Jesus
said to him: “Put your sword back in its place for all those who draw
the sword will die by the sword.” This teaching and example shows
Christians should/should never fight because …
6. Jesus became angry when people were misusing God’s house, the
Temple: He overturned the tables of the money changers and the
benches of those selling doves. This example shows Christians
should/should never fight because …
7. Jesus did not condemn the centurion for being a part of the military.
This example shows Christians should/should never fight because …
8. The Bible (Joel) teaches of a time of God’s judgement “Proclaim this
among the nations; prepare for war, stir up your soldiers.” This text
shows Christians should/should never fight because …
9. In the 10 commandments, God said “You shall not murder.” This
commandment shows Christians should/should never fight because …
10. Jesus taught “Love one another” This teaching shows Christians
should/should never fight because …
‘Christians should never fight. ’What do you think? Explain your
opinion. Refer to Christian teachings in your answer. (3 marks)
Which teachings below allow/do not allow a Christian to fight and why?
Give reasons for your choice.
1. Christians are taught about the sanctity of life, so all human life is
sacred/holy. This teaching shows Christians should/should never fight
because …
2. The Bible teaches that God has placed rulers in power so Christians
should obey them if they tell them to go to war. This teaching shows
Christians should/should never fight because …
3. Jesus taught “Blessed are the peace makers.” This teaching shows
Christians should/should never fight because …
4. The Bible teaches that people should fight against evil. This teaching
shows Christians should/should never fight because …
5. When Jesus was being arrested a friend tried to protect him. Jesus said
to him: “Put your sword back in its place for all those who draw the
sword will die by the sword.” This teaching and example shows
Christians should/should never fight because …
6. Jesus became angry when people were misusing God’s house, the
Temple: He overturned the tables of the money changers and the
benches of those selling doves. This example shows Christians
should/should never fight because …
7. Jesus did not condemn the centurion for being a part of the military.
This example shows Christians should/should never fight because …
8. The Bible (Joel) teaches of a time of God’s judgement “Proclaim this
among the nations; prepare for war, stir up your soldiers.” This text
shows Christians should/should never fight because …
9. In the 10 commandments, God said “You shall not murder.” This
commandment shows Christians should/should never fight because …
10. Jesus taught “Love one another” This teaching shows Christians
should/should never fight because …
1. Give two examples of recent wars. (2 marks) One mark for each correct point.
2. Explain two of the main causes of war. (3 marks)
0 marks Nothing relevant or worthy of credit.
1 mark Something relevant or worthy of credit.
2 marks Elementary knowledge and understanding, e.g. two simple points.
3 marks Sound knowledge and understanding.
3. ‘Religious believers should never agree with a country having weapons of mass destruction.’ What do you think? Explain your opinion. (3
marks)
0 marks Unsupported opinion or no relevant evaluation.
1 mark Opinion supported by simple reason.
2 marks Opinion supported by one developed reason or two simple reasons.
3 marks Opinion supported by one well developed reason or several simple reasons.
4. Explain why some religious believers are prepared to fight in a war. Refer to religious beliefs and teachings in your answer. (4 marks)
0 marks Nothing relevant or worthy of credit.
1 mark Something relevant or worthy of credit.
2 marks Elementary knowledge and understanding, e.g. two simple points.
3 marks Sound knowledge and understanding.
4 marks A clear knowledge and understanding with some development and / or analysis
5. ‘There will always be wars.’ Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer, showing that you have thought about more than one point of view.
Refer to religious arguments in your answer. (6 marks)
0 marks Unsupported opinion or no relevant evaluation.
1 mark Opinion supported by simple reason.
2 marks Opinion supported by one developed reason or two simple reasons.
3 marks Opinion supported by one well developed reason or several simple reasons. N.B. Candidates who make no religious comment should
not achieve more than Level 3.
4 marks Opinion supported by two developed reasons with reference to religion.
5 marks Evidence of reasoned consideration of two different points of view, showing informed insights and knowledge and understanding of
religion.
6 marks A well-argued response, with evidence of reasoned consideration of two different points of view showing informed insights and ability to
apply knowledge and understanding of religion effectively.
1. World War 1 and 2. Afghanistan / Iraq / Iran / Falklands / Bosnia / Vietnam /Korea / Israel / Palestine/ Libya/ war against terrorism
(Al Qaeda)/ Pakistan/ Gulf War/ Civil wars and Cold War
2. Defend country from attack / defend beliefs, religion, freedom and way of life / defend an ally or protect a weaker country / remove
own leader or government (civil war) / to gain land / wealth / power / resources such as oil / stop atrocities such as genocide / get rid of
a dictator / restore justice or peace / hatred / revenge, Max. L2 for a list.
3. Not a deterrent it might lead to war, e.g. Saddam Hussein was believed to have weapons of mass destruction / not morally justifiable
/ religions should teach peace not war / biological and chemical weapons outlawed by Geneva convention / no country should have
them/ damage to people and infrastructure, roads and buildings etc / expensive money could be spent on the needy / effect on future
generations/ just
war arguments/ HOWEVER they act as a deterrent / stop other countries attacking / if you have them you are able to hit back if you are
attacked by others who have similar weapons / need protection from others / don’t have to use them, e.g. nuclear deterrent / N.B. Two
sided evaluation is not required but acceptable.
4. Idea of Holy War / religious aims or goals / authorized by God or a religious leader /spiritual reward, e.g. heaven or paradise /
defend religion / spread faith or win backcountry that used to follow a particular religion. Idea of Just War / just cause / declaredby
proper authority, e.g. government / good intention / last resort / reasonable chance of success / fought by just means / the good achieved
will outweigh the evil that led to war / civilians protected. Stories of warriors and battles are in religious books .Max. L3 if no
reference to religious teachings or beliefs.
5. Agree Since recorded history only one or two years where there haven’t been wars in the world / many wars (of different
magnitude) currently being fought / always conflict / disagreements / people who want power or what others have / human problem of
greed, selfishness and craving / going to be an increase in lack of resources for a growing world population / Bible says that there will
always be wars and rumours of
wars / patriotism may encourage support for war/ Jesus’ actions in the Temple.
Other Views Religions teach peace, so if people followed their teachings wars would end / if people take notice of the Golden Rules of
religion war would end / if justice was promoted, wars would end / if people helped the poor in the world and shared more than there
would be no need for fighting.Buddhism preaches peace and non-violence (Ahimsa) Christianity ‘turn the other cheek’ / Jesus did not
resist arrest / Quakers –pacifism Hinduism – Ahimsa (non-harming) / good karma / Mahatma Gandhi rejected violence Islam –
‘Islam’ means ‘peace’ / Muslims should not seek revenge Sikhism peace is a gift of God who is called ‘a haven of peace’ / idea of
good karma/ khalsa members have a responsibility to work for peace.
1. Give two ways in which organisations might help victims of war. (2 marks) One mark for each correct point.
2. Describe the work of one religious believer who has campaigned for peace. (3 marks)
0 marks Nothing relevant or worthy of credit.
1 mark Something relevant or worthy of credit.
2 marks Elementary knowledge and understanding, e.g. two simple points.
3 marks Sound knowledge and understanding.
3. No war should be called a Holy War... What do you think? Explain your opinion. (3 marks)
0 marks Unsupported opinion or no relevant evaluation.
1 mark Opinion supported by simple reason.
2 marks Opinion supported by one developed reason or two simple reasons.
3 marks Opinion supported by one well developed reason or several simple reasons.
4. Explain why some religious believers might not be prepared to fight in a war. (4 marks)
0 marks Nothing relevant or worthy of credit.
1 mark Something relevant or worthy of credit.
2 marks Elementary knowledge and understanding, e.g. two simple points.
3 marks Sound knowledge and understanding.
4 marks A clear knowledge and understanding with some development and / or analysis
5. “It is wrong to have nuclear weapons.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer, showing that you have thought about more than one
point of view. Refer to religious arguments in your answer. (6 marks)
0 marks Unsupported opinion or no relevant evaluation.
1 mark Opinion supported by simple reason.
2 marks Opinion supported by one developed reason or two simple reasons.
3 marks Opinion supported by one well developed reason or several simple reasons. N.B. Candidates who make no religious comment should
not achieve more than Level 3.
4 marks Opinion supported by two developed reasons with reference to religion.
5 marks Evidence of reasoned consideration of two different points of view, showing informed insights and knowledge and understanding of
religion.
6 marks A well-argued response, with evidence of reasoned consideration of two different points of view showing informed insights and ability
to apply knowledge and understanding of religion effectively.
1. Earl Haig Fund provide funds and employment such as making poppies, e.g. the work of the Red Cross or Red Crescent,
hospitals provide medical care and assistance, wheel chairs for the crippled or other special equipment to make the victims
lives easier, counselling and pastoral support, the work of Help for Heroes, support for injured service personnel and their
families, sending UN peace keeping troops.
2. The Dalai Lama – worked for peace in Tibet, tried to bring about peaceful solution after the Chinese invasion, after
Chinese army crushed uprising lived in exile in India, refused any forms of violence to win back his country, encouraged
refugees to save Tibetan culture and way of life, proposed five point peace plan, awarded Nobel Peace Prize.
3. War is never holy but could be Just, the right thing to do, brings about death, maiming, refugees, a Holy God would not
want suffering, destruction and pain, Bible teaches Do not kill, etc.
However God may sometimes call people to fight for justice, needs a religious goal or aim, Crusades, can fight if
authorised by God or a religious leader, spiritual reward for those taking part (jihad), go to heaven, right to defend faith, right
to fight for revenge attack on their religion, to stop religious persecution, win back a country that used to follow their
beliefs
4. Causes suffering, death, destruction, maiming, refugees, psychological damage, economic consequences, sanctity of life,
Golden Rule to love one another. Christianity “Blessed are the peacemakers” "Love your enemies and pray for those who
persecute you." “ do not take revenge, if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, let him slap your left cheek” 'Love your
neighbour'. At Jesus' arrest Peter was violent, but Jesus told him to put away his sword - "all who take up the sword will die
by the sword" "If someone has done you wrong, do not repay him with a wrong ... Do everything possible on your part to
live in peace with everybody. Never take revenge. God will take revenge ... If your enemy is hungry, feed him ... If he is
thirsty, give him a drink ... conquer evil with good." Jehovah's Witnesses and The Quakers, Christian denominations who
reject violence and war / if the war is not seen as a Just War / conscientious objectors.
5. Agree Nuclear weapons very destructive, proportionality, could destroy wildlife and environment, innocent people killed,
long term effects e.g. from radiation (e.g. of Hiroshima), environmental impact, cost, money should be spent upon the poor
not Trident missiles, violates sanctity of life and Just War conditions and stewardship, Ahimsa – non violence.
Other views May act as a deterrent, last resort, quicker resolution to conflict e.g. Second World War, other countries have
them
What is meant by a ‘Holy War’?
A war believed to be supported by God / war with a religious goal or similar.
Give two reasons why countries might go to war.
To win territory / to restore peace / to protect land / to gain resources, e.g. oil / greed / to stop terrorism / genocide / revenge /
religious differences / protect those who cannot protect themselves / overthrow corrupt and tyrannical rule, etc.
1 mark for a superficial comment or a single point.
2 marks for a developed answer or more than one point.
‘No one who is religious can be a terrorist.’ What do you think? Explain your opinion. 3 Candidates may include some
of the following points:
Religions advocate peace / love your neighbour or similar / morally wrong to kill indiscriminately / wrong to scare people / should
work with government (see Romans 13). Seen by some as freedom fighters / maybe be viewed as protecting their religion / idea
of jihad / maybe fighting against an injustice, etc.
Explain why some religious believers are prepared to fight in a war.
St Thomas Aquinas’ conditions for a Just War: i.e. (1) a just cause, (2) started by a properly constituted authority, (3) right
intention – promote good and avoid evil, (4) must be a last resort, (5) must be a reasonable chance of success, (6) must be
reasonable proportion – use only enough force to achieve objectives, and (7) no civilians to be involved.
In Exodus, God is both a warrior and defender of his people (Exodus 15 3 and Psalm 147 14) / The Crusades – to reclaim land
from Muslims / Holy War / those were fought in the name of God against unbelievers / while Christians oppose war, they believe it
is right to defend country from an attack by aggressor, e.g. second world war / Liberation Theology, e.g. Oscar Romero – it is right
to fight for freedom where people are suppressed unfairly / Dietrich Bonhoeffer / Matthew 21 12-13 Jesus overturned the moneychangers’ tables in the temple / Luke 22 36: “Whoever has no sword must sell his coat and buy one”.
“It is wrong to have nuclear weapons.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer, showing that you have thought
about more than one point of view. Refer to religious arguments in your answer. (6 marks)
Agree Nuclear weapons very destructive, proportionality, could destroy wildlife and environment, innocent people killed, long
term effects e.g. from radiation (e.g. of Hiroshima), environmental impact, cost, money should be spent upon the poor not Trident
missiles, violates sanctity of life and Just War conditions and stewardship, Ahimsa – non violence.
Other views May act as a deterrent, last resort, quicker resolution to conflict e.g. Second World War, other countries have them