Exam Questions and How to Write Them

8/2/2019 Exam Questions and How to Write Them

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Philosophy of Religion5. Exam guidance and sample questions

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programme, or simply go over your class notes one more time and in so

doing finally understand a difficult area.

Revision and the examination

It is never too early to start your revision. From the moment the first topic

has been completed in class you should be making concise revision notes,

learning quotations, and making essay plans. If you leave it until the exams

are looming you will only have time to get it into your short-term memory,

and you will feel far less able to deal with the unexpected or to spend time in

the exam ensuring that your written style is the best you can offer on the

day. Revision techniques do, and indeed should, vary. Everybody learns and

remembers differently, so don't be led into thinking that you should be doing

it exactly the same way as everybody else. Experiment with a range of

strategies but make sure they are multi-sensory: involve as many of the

appropriate senses in the learning process as possible. Just reading through

the notes in your file uses only one method reading and therefore onlyone channel to receive and process that information. Reading, making fresh

notes, applying them to a question, writing it out again, repeating it orally to

a friend all of these contribute to the cumulative process of learning and

establish the material more firmly in your memory.

As you prepare for the examination, make sure that you are absolutely certain

about key issues such as the day and time of the exam! Knowing dates well in

advance enables you to make a revision plan, allocating specific tasks to each day

as the exam approaches, so that your revision is never random or unplanned.

You also must be sure of what you will be required to do in the exam andhow much time you have to do it in. This is why you must practise exam

questions to time and not just under normal homework conditions. A good

candidate can achieve a disappointing result because they didn't work to

time, writing one or two long answers, but resorting to a plan or notes for

the third. If you have one hour and 45 minutes to answer three questions,

that means 35 minutes per question. Stick to this rule in all your timed work.

On the day, keep in control and even if the questions are not the ones you

hoped would come up, think calmly and carefully, and use the material you

have learned to give relevant answers. Do what you are asked and nothing

else. Read what you have written and check it over for careless mistakes.

Sample exam questions

1.2 The design argument

Sample essay question

(i) Outline the key ideas of the design argument. (21 marks)

(ii) How far does the argument remain a convincing one, despite

its weaknesses? (9 marks)


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Sample essay plan

For (i)

G Identify key ideas including the need for explanation; the features of the

universe which may suggest order, purpose, benefit, providence.

G Describe analogical and inductive forms of the argument with relevantscholars and examples.

G Conclude with other forms of the argument, aesthetic argument and

anthropic principle, for example.

G Dont spend all your time on one form or the contribution of one scholar.

For (ii)

G Identify some key weaknesses of the argument, without going into too

much detail.

G Consider how persuasive those weaknesses might be.

G Consider the continuing appeal of the design argument, by reference

perhaps to intelligent design, but also to the a posteriorinature of the

argument which makes it accessible.G Even scholars who ultimately rejected the argument (eg. Kant) recognised

the power of its appeal to experience.

G However, modern science has served to fulfil the need for an explanation

for the world and an atheist will not be convinced by the arguments

assumptions.

1.3 The cosmological argument


(i) Outline the cosmological argument for the existence of God.

(21 marks)(ii) How far is it fair to say that the strengths of the argument

outweigh its weaknesses? (9 marks)

Sample essay plan

For (i)

G Identify the key features of the cosmological argument, including its

demand for an explanation of the universe, the need to find a first

cause and mover, according to Aquinass Five Ways and the Kalam

Argument.

G You can include some reference to the early approaches to the argumentin Greek philosophy.

G Move on to the search for a necessary being as an explanation for the

existence of contingent beings, referring to Aquinass Third Way and the

ideas of F C Copleston.

For (ii)

G Outline some key criticisms, focusing perhaps on the problems of looking

for a cause for the whole and not just for parts.

G Is it reasonable to reject infinite regress and/or presume the existence of a

necessary being?

G Identify some key strengths of the argument (reasons why it continues to

be valid and attractive).G Offer two or three clear reasons why these may be more convincing than

the weaknesses, or vice versa.


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2.1 The problem of evil


(i) Explain what is meant by the problem of evil and examine any

two solutions to the problem. (21 marks)(ii) Comment on how successful they are in solving the problem.

(9 marks)

Sample essay plan

For (i)

G Discuss the nature of God and the qualities of omnipotence, omniscience

and omnibenevolence.

G Discuss the inconsistent triad and the issue of how these qualities can be

correct if evil exists.

G Put forward the views of scholars eg. Augustine and Aquinas.

G Outline the main points of Augustinian theodicy.G Outline the main points of Irenaean theodicy or process theodicy.

For (ii)

G Consider the key strengths and weaknesses of the two solutions.

G Conclusion evaluate the evidence.

2.2 Miracles


(i) Examine the evidence for and against the occurrence of miracles.

(21 marks)(ii) Consider how far the evidence against the occurrence of miracles

outweighs that in their favour. (9 marks)

Sample essay plan

For (i)

G Offer a clear definition of miracle, eg. that of Aquinas or Hume.

G Discuss the views of scholars who challenge the notion of miracles eg.

Davis and the interventionalist God and Hicks challenge to the notion of

natural law.

G Discuss the views of scholars who support miracles eg. Swinburne the

religious significance of miracles and religious believers who see miraclesas signs.

G Examine arguments concerning the moral grounds for miracles (Vardy and

Wiles).

G Discuss Holland and Hare the notion of coincidences and bliks.

G Provide an in-depth look at the criticisms of Hume and the problems raised

for and against.

G Raise Swinburnes principles of testimony and credulity.

For (ii)

G Suggest a further argument each for and against the occurrence of

miracles which you feel is particularly persuasive.

G Consider the weaknesses and strengths of the arguments raised in (i).G Provide a conclusion, perhaps contrasting the views of an atheist and a

religious believer.


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5. Exam guidance and sample questions

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3.2 Morality and religion


(i) Examine the views of scholars concerning the view that religion

and morality are linked. (21 marks)(ii) Comment on the view that religion and morality are not linked.

(9 marks)

Sample essay plan

For (i)

G Identify the key scholarly contributions in support of the link between

religion and morality and the reason why there may be a relationship of

dependency for example: Ethical obligations (moral duties or

requirements) are often thought of as commands with authority behind

them. However, what is the source of that authority? Is it sufficient to say

that the sole reason for them being moral obligations is that they havebeen commanded by God?

G Introduce divine command ethics morality directly commanded by God.

G Discuss Aquinass views God as source of morality and ultimate good.

G Discuss Kant a moral argument which identifies God as the necessary

postulate of morality, although morality does stand alone.

G Put forward other reasons for linking religion and morality: tradition,

teaching, authority of Church or religious leaders; religious influence on

moral matters.

For (ii)

G Identify three key arguments against the link between religion and

morality, for example: the Euthyphro dilemma

examples of God commanding apparently immoral actions

religious morality encouraging moral standards which are opposed to

modern or secular morality.

G Reassess whether the link between morality and religion is more sound

than these critiques. Save up an evaluative comment, for example, that

humans need moral guidance and it is as reasonable, if not more so, to

rely on God to give it than on other human beings.

G Conclusion: come back to the critiques and identify one reason why they

may be stronger than the arguments in support of the link between

religion and morality.

3.3 Utilitarianism


(i) What are the main advantages of utilitarianism? (21 marks)

(ii) Identify the main problems of utilitarianism. To what extent do

these make utilitarianism unacceptable? (9 marks)

Sample essay plan

For (i)

Identify the key features of utilitarianism in the form of strengths:G Principle of utility, concern for majority and recognition of happiness as of

intrinsic value to humans.


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G Response to the social needs of the 18th century.

G Recognition of consequences as of particular value; realistic approach to

moral decision making.

G Mills adaptation resolved some difficulties with act utilitarianism higher

pleasures, ideals and desirable human qualities.G Harm principle brings the power of the majority under control.

For (ii)

Identify the main problems of a consequentialist ethic:

G Too much emphasis on one factor happiness/well being.

G Does not allow forprima facie relationships or agent relative moral

decisions.

G Mills form is too optimistic about human nature and inclines towards a

rule-based morality.

However

G Modern formulations of the theory show its perennial value: preference

and negative utilitarianism.G Formulates moral thought in a systematic way.

G It ultimately combines usefully with other ways of making moral decisions

in the real world, in private and public.

3.4 Situation ethics


(i) Examine the key features and weaknesses of situation ethics.

(21 marks)

(ii) How far do the weaknesses lead to a rejection of the theory?

(9 marks)

Sample essay plan

For (i)

G Describe the background to situation ethics social and moral change of

perspective.

G Bring in the change in view on the traditional concept of God and of the

role of religious morality.

G Discuss situation ethics as proposed by Fletcher and Robinson: agape as

only norm; rejection of absolute laws and rules; presuppositions and

principles of Fletchers situation ethics.

G Bring in the new morality of Robinson, particularly in relation to divorce.

G Discuss Fletchers use of case studies to illustrate the problems of

absolutism.

G Outline Barclays criticisms in detail.

For (ii)

G Comment on the strengths of the theory: compassionate, flexible,

consequentialist. It allows for careful reflection and mature reason, rather

than slavish obedience to laws which may not be appropriate.

G Evaluate the weaknesses discussed in (i).

G Draw a balanced conclusion as to the success of situation ethics.

Conceivably it reflects the need for moral flexibility, but does not recognisesufficiently the importance of moral guidelines.


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Sample essay plan

For (i)

G This section requires a brief explanation of the background Docetism and

the notion of Christ being human only for the sake of appearance. Then

include more detailed discussion on views of Arius Son created by theFather as a perfect creature, only God is unbegotten and the

inaccessibility of God. Then include contrasting views of Athanasius the

unity of the Father and Son, Christ as God and Saviour, the Nicene Creed.

Scriptural references eg. John 1 should be included. Useful scholars include

McGrath and Wiles.

For (ii)

G To answer this part well requires an appreciation of the principles of the

Chalcedonian definition Jesus as both human and divine Saviour. Critical

comment might include the fact that the definition left unanswered the

problems of how Christs divinity and humanity were to be explained. Use

scriptural references and the views of scholars.

2.1 Christian beliefs about God


(i) Explain Christian teaching on the notion of a personal God.

(21 marks)

(ii) Evaluate Christian teaching concerning God as creator.

(9 marks)

Sample essay plan

For (i)G This answer requires discussion of what it means to refer to God as

personal. This includes comment on the love and goodness of God,

whether or not He can change and respond to the human condition and

the importance of a personal God for salvation. This may lead to comment

on whether or not God can suffer, and the prominence of the life of Jesus

and his suffering on the cross. Scholars include Anselm, Moltmann,

Spinoza and Buber.

For (ii)

G To answer this question, you must first understand what it means to speak

of God as creator. This includes evaluation of the nature of creation

Gods handiwork, artistic expression, emanation, ex nihilo. There shouldalso be an examination of the issues of Gods authority, human

stewardship and the relationship between God and his creation. Scholars

include Augustine, Plato and McGrath.


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2.2 Christian worship, meaning and significance, belief and

practice


(i) Describe the Eucharistic practices of one Christian Church.(21 marks)

(ii) Evaluate the ways in which different beliefs about the Eucharist

are reflected in the practice of another Christian Church.

(9 marks)

Sample essay plan

For (i)

G Choose one denomination such as the Roman Catholic Church and

describe features of its Eucharistic practice, for example:

The Eucharist is the central act of Catholic worship.

It is celebrated by a priest who wears full vestments. Preparation for taking the sacrament is through prayers, readings and a

sermon.

The priest says the Eucharistic prayer over the bread (wafers) and the

wine.

At the key point the bread and wine are lifted towards heaven to show

that they have become the body and blood of Jesus.

The people walk to the altar in order to receive them.

They may be received in one or both kinds.

Mass may be celebrated even as often as every day, certainly once a week.

For (ii)

G Identify how the practices of another Church reflect their Eucharistictheology. For example:

G In most Anglican churches, Eucharist is celebrated less regularly but often

enough to serve as a means of commemorating Jesuss death.

G It is a memorial and act of obedience to Jesuss command made at the

Last Supper.

G It may be part of a fuller service including prayers, hymns and readings, or

may be part of a fellowship meal.

G Communion is taken in both kinds of service and may be wafers and a

chalice of fermented grape juice, or the congregation may share from one

loaf or fragments of a loaf.

G

They may receive it from the minister or pass it to each other.G The practices do not reflect any belief in transubstantiation except in some

Anglo-Catholic churches.

G They are more likely to reflect the doctrine of consubstantiation or a simple

symbolic understanding that the elements are representing the body and

blood of Jesus.

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Exam Questions and How to Write Them