Terrorism and Weapons of Mass Destruction

    WJEC
    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.

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

    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • CCND (Christian Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament) and their specific opposition to Trident.
    • The Just War criteria of 'Proportionality' and 'Discrimination' (civilians vs combatants).
    • Qur'an 5:32 - 'Whoever kills a soul... it is as if he had slain mankind entirely.'
    • The concept of Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD) as a form of deterrence.
    • Pope Francis's declaration that the possession of nuclear weapons is immoral.

    Example Examiner Feedback

    Real feedback patterns examiners use when marking

    • "You have stated the Christian view; now reference a specific denomination (e.g., Quakers) to show depth."
    • "Your evaluation needs a stronger judgment. Which argument regarding WMDs is more convincing and why?"
    • "Connect the quote 'Eye for an eye' specifically to the concept of retaliation, then contrast it with Jesus's teaching."
    • "Ensure you distinguish between the aims of terrorism and the methods, explaining why the methods fail religious ethical tests."

    Marking Points

    Key points examiners look for in your answers

    • Credit accurate definitions of WMDs (nuclear, biological, chemical) and terrorism (unlawful violence for political gain).
    • Award marks for explicit application of Just War criteria: specifically 'Proportionality' and 'Discrimination' regarding civilian casualties.
    • Candidates must cite specific scripture: e.g., 'Do not kill' (Exodus 20:13) or Qur'an 5:32 regarding saving/killing a life.
    • Evaluation in 'Discuss' questions must weigh arguments for nuclear deterrence (MAD) against the humanitarian risk and religious duty to protect creation (Stewardship).

    Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for maximising your marks

    • 💡For 'Discuss' (15 marks), ensure the conclusion logically follows the evaluation of arguments, rather than just summarizing.
    • 💡When explaining religious views on WMDs, explicitly contrast 'Sanctity of Life' with 'Utilitarian' (greatest good) perspectives.
    • 💡Allocate 20 minutes to the final 'Discuss' question; it carries the highest weight for AO2.
    • 💡Memorize quotes that apply to multiple contexts: 'Blessed are the peacemakers' applies to both terrorism and WMD disarmament.

    Common Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

    • Conflating the theological concept of 'Lesser Jihad' with modern acts of terrorism.
    • Asserting that 'all Christians are pacifists' without acknowledging the Just War tradition or realism.
    • Failing to distinguish between the possession of WMDs as a deterrent and their actual use.

    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

    What is
    Describe
    Explain
    Discuss

    Ready to test yourself?

    Practice questions tailored to this topic