Causes of Conflict and Pacifism

    AQA
    GCSE

    Examination of the theological and ethical tensions between the sanctity of life and the necessity of conflict. Candidates must analyze religious attitudes toward violence, including the criteria for Just War Theory, the concept of Holy War (Jihad/Crusade), and the spectrum of pacifism. Study necessitates evaluation of contemporary issues such as nuclear deterrence, terrorism, and the role of religious organizations in reconciliation and restorative justice.

    5
    Objectives
    4
    Exam Tips
    4
    Pitfalls
    3
    Key Terms
    4
    Mark Points

    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • Matthew 5:9 - 'Blessed are the peacemakers'.
    • The conditions of Just War Theory: Just Cause, Proper Authority, Last Resort.
    • The Quaker Society of Friends' absolute pacifist stance (Peace Testimony).
    • Dietrich Bonhoeffer's involvement in the plot against Hitler (conflict of pacifism vs justice).
    • Surah 2:190 - 'Fight in the cause of Allah those who fight you, but do not transgress limits'.

    Example Examiner Feedback

    Real feedback patterns examiners use when marking

    • "You have identified a relevant teaching; now explain its specific application to the issue of nuclear deterrence."
    • "Avoid asserting 'Christians believe...'; specify 'Quakers believe...' or 'Roman Catholics teach...' to show AO1 precision."
    • "Your evaluation lists points; to improve, weigh which argument is stronger and explain why in your conclusion."
    • "Ensure you explicitly reference a Source of Wisdom and Authority (Bible/Quran) to access the top band marks."

    Marking Points

    Key points examiners look for in your answers

    • Award marks for precise identification of causes: greed (selfish desire), self-defence (protection), and retaliation (revenge).
    • Credit responses that explicitly link pacifism to the Quaker testimony or the concept of Ahimsa, rather than generic 'peacefulness'.
    • Evaluation must weigh the legitimacy of Just War (jus ad bellum) against the command to 'turn the other cheek'.
    • Candidates must demonstrate understanding that 'Holy War' has distinct theological conditions compared to secular conflict.

    Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for maximising your marks

    • 💡In 12-mark 'Evaluate' questions, ensure the conclusion provides a final judgment on the validity of the statement, not just a summary.
    • 💡When using scripture, do not just quote; explain *how* the quote supports the specific argument (e.g., 'Blessed are the peacemakers' implies active reconciliation).
    • 💡Allocate 15 minutes strictly to the 12-mark essay to ensure sufficient depth of analysis.
    • 💡Use the 'Farm' technique: cultivate arguments For and Against before harvesting a Conclusion.

    Common Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

    • Confusing 'pacifism' (absolute refusal of violence) with 'passivity' (doing nothing).
    • Asserting 'all Christians are pacifists' without acknowledging the Anglican acceptance of Just War theory.
    • Listing arguments in 12-mark questions without reaching a logical, evidence-based conclusion.
    • Failing to distinguish between 'Lesser Jihad' (military defence) and 'Greater Jihad' (spiritual struggle) when discussing Islamic views on conflict.

    Study Guide Available

    Comprehensive revision notes & examples

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    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    Likely Command Words

    How questions on this topic are typically asked

    Give
    Explain
    Evaluate
    Contrast
    Refer to
    State

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