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Responding to change (a2 only)
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Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments (a-level only)
Biological molecules
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Britain & the wider world: 1745 -1901
1l the quest for political stability: germany, 1871-1991
The cold war
Inter-war germany
Medieval period: 1066 -1509
2d religious conflict and the church in england, c1529-c1570
2o democracy and nazism: germany, 1918-1945
1f industrialisation and the people: britain, c1783-1885
1c the tudors: england, 1485-1603
2m wars and welfare: britain in transition, 1906-1957
World war two & the holocaust
2n revolution and dictatorship: russia, 1917-1953
2s the making of modern britain, 1951-2007
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Religious Studies
9 Dec 2025
192
2 pages
Aleksandra Golowska @hola_soy_ola
Euthanasia is one of the most complex ethical debates in modern society, dealing with end-of-life decisions for terminally... Show more
The word euthanasia literally means "good death" in Greek, but it's much more complicated than that sounds. It refers to helping someone die who is terminally ill or suffering from a debilitating illness with no chance of recovery.
This isn't the same as suicide or murder - those involve ending life regardless of illness. Euthanasia specifically deals with compassionate death for those already facing inevitable suffering.
There are four main types you need to know. Active euthanasia means intentionally ending someone's life, whilst passive euthanasia involves withdrawing or not giving treatment to hasten death. The difference between voluntary (with consent) and involuntary (without consent) is equally crucial.
One of the biggest challenges is defining when life truly begins and ends. Even babies can't function independently - this raises profound questions about what makes life meaningful rather than just being "alive."
Key Point The debate isn't just medical - it's philosophical, asking fundamental questions about the value and meaning of human existence.
Philosopher James Rachels argues that passive euthanasia might actually be crueller than active euthanasia because it forces patients through long, drawn-out suffering. This challenges our instinct that "letting die" is morally better than "killing."
The acts and omissions debate explores whether there's a real moral difference between doing something harmful versus simply not preventing harm. Both can lead to death, but we often view them very differently.
When weighing up euthanasia decisions, we must consider proportionality - comparing the suffering caused by the illness against the suffering of death itself. Sometimes death might genuinely be the lesser evil.
The key issues include the sanctity of life , personal autonomy (your right to choose), and whether we judge actions by their consequences or by the acts themselves. The motives behind euthanasia decisions matter enormously too.
Remember These aren't abstract philosophical puzzles - they're real dilemmas that affect families and medical professionals every day.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
6
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the complexities of the Problem of Evil in this comprehensive overview tailored for OCR RS A-Level students. This study note delves into moral and natural evil, the logical and evidential problems of evil, and key theodicies from Augustine and Irenaeus. Gain insights into how free will, suffering, and divine attributes challenge religious belief and shape theological discourse.
Religious StudiesExplore the complexities of the Problem of Evil in this comprehensive summary. Delve into Augustine's and Irenaeus' theodicies, the role of free will, and the implications for the existence of God. Ideal for OCR A-Level Philosophy and Ethics students seeking to understand moral evil and its philosophical interpretations.
Religious StudiesExplore the relevance of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's teachings on suffering, civil disobedience, and solidarity for contemporary Christians. This essay analyzes how Bonhoeffer's insights, rooted in his experiences during the Nazi regime, continue to resonate in today's world, emphasizing the importance of faith in the face of suffering and the call to support those in need. Ideal for OCR Philosophy and Ethics A-Level students.
Religious StudiesExplore the key concepts of Descartes' Substance Dualism, including the distinction between mind and body, the implications of 'Cogito, ergo sum', and critiques from philosophers like Ryle. This summary delves into the nature of existence, the reliability of senses, and the complexities of consciousness. Ideal for students studying philosophy and metaphysics.
Religious StudiesExplore the key concepts of Behaviourism, including Ryle's arguments, the problem of other minds, and the implications of circularity in mental state analysis. This summary covers both soft and hard behaviourism, addressing philosophical challenges such as Super Spartans and zombies. Ideal for AQA A-Level Philosophy students seeking clarity on the mind-body problem and psychological theories.
Religious StudiesExplore the comprehensive WJEC Eduqas A Level Religious Studies specification, covering key themes such as the study of major world religions, philosophy of religion, and ethics. This resource provides insights into religious beliefs, practices, and their societal impacts, including detailed discussions on Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. Ideal for students preparing for their exams, this guide includes essential topics like theodicies, divine command theory, and moral philosophy.
Religious StudiesApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Aleksandra Golowska
@hola_soy_ola
Euthanasia is one of the most complex ethical debates in modern society, dealing with end-of-life decisions for terminally ill patients. Understanding the different types and moral arguments around euthanasia helps us navigate difficult questions about life, death, and personal choice.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The word euthanasia literally means "good death" in Greek, but it's much more complicated than that sounds. It refers to helping someone die who is terminally ill or suffering from a debilitating illness with no chance of recovery.
This isn't the same as suicide or murder - those involve ending life regardless of illness. Euthanasia specifically deals with compassionate death for those already facing inevitable suffering.
There are four main types you need to know. Active euthanasia means intentionally ending someone's life, whilst passive euthanasia involves withdrawing or not giving treatment to hasten death. The difference between voluntary (with consent) and involuntary (without consent) is equally crucial.
One of the biggest challenges is defining when life truly begins and ends. Even babies can't function independently - this raises profound questions about what makes life meaningful rather than just being "alive."
Key Point: The debate isn't just medical - it's philosophical, asking fundamental questions about the value and meaning of human existence.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Philosopher James Rachels argues that passive euthanasia might actually be crueller than active euthanasia because it forces patients through long, drawn-out suffering. This challenges our instinct that "letting die" is morally better than "killing."
The acts and omissions debate explores whether there's a real moral difference between doing something harmful versus simply not preventing harm. Both can lead to death, but we often view them very differently.
When weighing up euthanasia decisions, we must consider proportionality - comparing the suffering caused by the illness against the suffering of death itself. Sometimes death might genuinely be the lesser evil.
The key issues include the sanctity of life , personal autonomy (your right to choose), and whether we judge actions by their consequences or by the acts themselves. The motives behind euthanasia decisions matter enormously too.
Remember: These aren't abstract philosophical puzzles - they're real dilemmas that affect families and medical professionals every day.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
6
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the complexities of the Problem of Evil in this comprehensive overview tailored for OCR RS A-Level students. This study note delves into moral and natural evil, the logical and evidential problems of evil, and key theodicies from Augustine and Irenaeus. Gain insights into how free will, suffering, and divine attributes challenge religious belief and shape theological discourse.
Religious StudiesExplore the complexities of the Problem of Evil in this comprehensive summary. Delve into Augustine's and Irenaeus' theodicies, the role of free will, and the implications for the existence of God. Ideal for OCR A-Level Philosophy and Ethics students seeking to understand moral evil and its philosophical interpretations.
Religious StudiesExplore the relevance of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's teachings on suffering, civil disobedience, and solidarity for contemporary Christians. This essay analyzes how Bonhoeffer's insights, rooted in his experiences during the Nazi regime, continue to resonate in today's world, emphasizing the importance of faith in the face of suffering and the call to support those in need. Ideal for OCR Philosophy and Ethics A-Level students.
Religious StudiesExplore the key concepts of Descartes' Substance Dualism, including the distinction between mind and body, the implications of 'Cogito, ergo sum', and critiques from philosophers like Ryle. This summary delves into the nature of existence, the reliability of senses, and the complexities of consciousness. Ideal for students studying philosophy and metaphysics.
Religious StudiesExplore the key concepts of Behaviourism, including Ryle's arguments, the problem of other minds, and the implications of circularity in mental state analysis. This summary covers both soft and hard behaviourism, addressing philosophical challenges such as Super Spartans and zombies. Ideal for AQA A-Level Philosophy students seeking clarity on the mind-body problem and psychological theories.
Religious StudiesExplore the comprehensive WJEC Eduqas A Level Religious Studies specification, covering key themes such as the study of major world religions, philosophy of religion, and ethics. This resource provides insights into religious beliefs, practices, and their societal impacts, including detailed discussions on Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. Ideal for students preparing for their exams, this guide includes essential topics like theodicies, divine command theory, and moral philosophy.
Religious StudiesApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Sociology