scientific theory describing the development of species from earlier less complex forms through a process of natural selection and survival of the fittest

the belief that moral consideration should be given to all beings that can experience pain or pleasure (sentient beings), regardless of their species

the belief that humans are superior to other animals, justifying their use for human benefit, seen by Peter Singer as morally equivalent to racism

Non-religious attitudes to human life

Religious education

In this unit pupils will focus firstly on the relationship between religion and science - looking at ideas of creation. They will examine how Christians and non-religiious people view the world. Finally they will examine how people speak about the sanctity of life.

Issues of life and death

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Which scientist argued that evolution is evidence of God’s design?

the idea that all sentient beings deserve moral consideration

the belief that humans are the only intelligent species

the rejection of evolution in favour of religious belief

What does the term ‘sentientism’ mean?

Which philosopher is best known for promoting the concept of speciesism?

that humans evolved alongside animals and have a duty to care for the planet

that humans are more important than animals

that human life has value because it was created by God

What does Alice Roberts believe about human life?

The Welfare of Animals at the Time of Killing regulations (WATOK)

Which law regulates how animals are used for food in the UK?

Richard Dawkins argues that the appearance of design in nature is an {{}}.

the belief that God created life exactly as described in Genesis

the belief that life developed through natural processes

the belief that life developed through artificial processes

all life is sacred because it was created by God

life is valuable only if it is useful to society

human life is special, but animals have the same worth

What does ‘sanctity of life’ mean in Christianity?

that humans reflect God’s nature and have a special purpose

that humans are identical to angels in their abilities

What does it mean to be created in the “image of God”?

Which Christian denomination emphasises the belief that “there is a part of God in everyone”?

he was formed from dust and given life by God’s breath

According to Genesis 2, how was Adam created?

Many Christians believe that while human life has a unique status, they still have a duty to care for {{}}.

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Non-religious attitudes to human life

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.