Terrorism and Weapons of Mass Destruction

    OCR
    GCSE

    Examination of the ethical and theological challenges posed by modern asymmetric warfare and indiscriminate weaponry. Candidates must evaluate the compatibility of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and acts of terrorism with religious frameworks, specifically Just War Theory (Jus ad bellum/Jus in bello), the Sanctity of Life, and the concept of Stewardship. Analysis requires application of normative ethical theories (Utilitarianism, Situation Ethics, Natural Law) to issues of nuclear deterrence, radicalisation, and the proportionality of response.

    6
    Objectives
    4
    Exam Tips
    4
    Pitfalls
    3
    Key Terms
    5
    Mark Points

    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • Definition of Terrorism: Unlawful use of violence/intimidation, especially against civilians, for political aims
    • Types of WMDs: Nuclear, Biological, Chemical, Radiological
    • Just War Criterion: Discrimination (Non-combatant immunity)
    • Just War Criterion: Proportionality (Force used must not exceed the injury suffered)
    • CCND: Christian Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament
    • Quaker Testimony: The Peace Testimony (Absolute Pacifism)

    Example Examiner Feedback

    Real feedback patterns examiners use when marking

    • "You identified the Just War theory; now explicitly apply the condition of 'proportionality' to the specific nature of nuclear weapons"
    • "Avoid generalizing with 'Christians believe'; specify whether this is a Catholic, Anglican, or Quaker perspective"
    • "Your conclusion repeats the arguments; ensure it provides a final judgment on which view is strongest and why"
    • "Integrate the scriptural quote into your argument to show its authority, rather than tacking it on at the end"

    Marking Points

    Key points examiners look for in your answers

    • Award marks for explicit application of Just War criteria (jus in bello) specifically 'proportionality' and 'discrimination' when discussing WMDs
    • Credit responses that distinguish between the possession of nuclear weapons (deterrence) and their actual use
    • Candidates must demonstrate understanding of the root causes of terrorism (political, social, religious) versus the religious condemnation of the act
    • High-level responses will contrast utilitarian arguments (ending war quickly) with deontological religious commands (Sanctity of Life)
    • Credit accurate citation of specific groups such as CCND (Christian Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament) or Pax Christi

    Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for maximising your marks

    • 💡In 15-mark questions, ensure the conclusion evaluates the 'validity' of the statement, not just a summary of points
    • 💡Use the 'PEEL' structure (Point, Evidence, Explain, Link) for 6-mark explanation questions to ensure depth
    • 💡Memorize versatile Sources of Wisdom (SoWA) that apply to both peace and justice (e.g., 'Blessed are the peacemakers')
    • 💡Allocate approximately 1 minute per mark; do not over-write on the 3-mark definitions

    Common Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

    • Conflating 'Holy War' (religious aim) with 'Just War' (rules of conduct)
    • Asserting 'all Christians oppose nuclear weapons' without acknowledging arguments for deterrence or realism
    • Failing to link WMDs specifically to the destruction of the environment (Stewardship) as a secondary ethical issue
    • Using generic phrases like 'God says do not kill' without referencing specific scriptural context or denominational nuance

    Study Guide Available

    Comprehensive revision notes & examples

    Read Study Guide

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    Likely Command Words

    How questions on this topic are typically asked

    Describe
    Outline
    Explain
    Discuss
    Evaluate
    Compare

    Ready to test yourself?

    Practice questions tailored to this topic