something that is always true and unchanging

something that is dependent on or connected to something else

actions or behaviour done by humans that are intentionally harmful or wrong, such as lying, stealing, or violence

suffering and harm caused by natural events or forces, such as earthquakes, floods, or diseases, which are not caused by human actions

The nature of human goodness

Religious education

In this unit pupils will use a philosophical lens to consider what we mean by good. They will examine  various ethical answers given such deontology, utilitarianism and situation ethics. They will conclude by weighing up the issue of suffering in the world.

Ethics: how do we know what is 'good'?

Depiction or discussion of famine, disease, natural disasters.

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Depiction of war, threats of war, death or the aftermath of war.

Depiction or discussion of violence or fighting, including threats of violence or the aftermath of violence.

 {{}} evil refers to suffering caused by natural events, such as earthquakes or diseases.

Which of these is an example of moral evil?

it is always good for everyone, everywhere

What does it mean if something is considered absolute in terms of goodness?

goodness is always the same for everyone, no matter where they live

what is considered good can change depending on the person or culture

goodness is based only on religious beliefs

goodness is scientifically proven to be the same for all humans

What does it mean when someone says that goodness is relative?

some people act kindly, while others act cruelly

Which example below supports the idea that humans can be both inherently good and inherently evil?

The definition of {{}} is something that causes significant harm or is morally wrong.

The definition of {{}} is pain or distress which can be caused by both natural events and human actions.

A person’s {{}} influences how they understand, experience, and respond to different situations and people in their life.

Choosing whether to tell the truth or lie to protect someone's feelings.

Which of the following is an example of an ethical decision (a decision about right and wrong)?

the study of the mind, emotions, thoughts, and mental processes

the study of society and how social structures influence people

the study of key questions about existence and how we view the world

Match the key terms below to the correct definitions.

having the ability to make decisions without any outside influence

having the ability to do whatever you want, no matter the consequences

having the ability to choose your actions, but only when it’s easy

having the ability to make choices based on what others want for you

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Adult supervision required

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

The nature of human goodness

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

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