What is it to believe...

... Is it more than blind-faith?

Statements:

• I believe in a benevolent God• I believe suffering has its purpose• I believe that RE is great

..What does it mean to say

‘I believe’?

Do we have to see to believe?

On the next few slides, look at the optical illusions...

Chances are...

• Some people in the room didn’t see both pictures

So now the question is posed – just because we can’t see something;

does it mean it’s not there?

Affirmation:

• I believe the sun should never set upon an argument

• I believe we place our happiness in other peoples hands

• I believe your parents did the best job they knew how to do

• I believe you can’t control or choose your sexuality

Listen to Affirmation, and decide why Darren Hayes might be saying the lyrics he is...

Justifying beliefs:

• When you make a statement about something you believe, you should always be prepared to give your justification

• Write down 9 of your beliefs, in order of importance (from top to bottom) on the Diamond Nine sheet – these beliefs must have justification at the ready!

Moral Issues:

• A 70 year old man, dying of extremely pain inflicting cancer – should he be allowed euthanasia?

• A single, unemployed woman with 7 children, who falls pregnant – should she be allowed an abortion?

• AIDs ridden Africa – should artificial contraception be allowed?

With the statements on the Previous Slides...

• In GCSE RE, you will form an opinion on these matters

• What will you have to do to have a justified opinion?

The Formula...

Issues you’re told about...

Thinking process...

Forming your own beliefs...

Listening to

others...

New, reshaped ideas...

Learning more!

Now using your statements from the Diamond Nine

Sheet...

• Use ‘the formula’ – and discuss it with the person next to you