Human Rights and Social Justice

Question 2

What are human rights?

Answer 2

A right believed to belong to every person, e.g., the right to life, freedom of speech

Human rights are universal and often codified in international treaties.

Question 3

Define social justice.

Answer 3

The view that all people should have the same rights and opportunities in society

It emphasizes equality and fairness in social, economic, and political arenas.

Question 4

What is the Golden Rule in Christian beliefs?

Answer 4

‘To do to others as you would have them do to you’

This principle encourages empathy and reciprocal kindness.

Question 5

What is Adl in Islam?

Answer 5

Justice

It is one of the key principles in Islamic teachings.

Question 6

What does the UN Declaration of Human Rights (1948) include?

Answer 6

Basic rights and freedoms like the right to life, fair trial, free speech, food, shelter, education, healthcare, and work

It serves as a foundational document for human rights globally.

Question 7

What is the UK Human Rights Act (1998)?

Answer 7

An act that incorporates the rights from the UN Declaration of Human Rights into UK law

It supersedes previous acts promoting equality and tolerance.

Question 8

What is the significance of the Magna Carta (1215)?

Answer 8

First statement of rights in Britain

It laid the groundwork for modern democracy and legal rights.

Question 9

Define tolerance.

Answer 9

Accepting others’ differences and living in harmony with them

Tolerance is essential for social cohesion and peace.

Question 10

What is justice according to many religions?

Answer 10

People should be treated equally and fairly according to a just law

Justice is a central theme in most religious teachings.

Question 11

What does compassion mean in the context of social justice?

Answer 11

Loving kindness - helping because there is a need to help

Compassion drives charitable actions and social support.

Question 12

What is the definition of prejudice?

Answer 12

Unfairly judging someone before the facts are known

Prejudice can lead to discrimination and social injustice.

Question 13

What is discrimination?

Answer 13

To act against someone based on sex, race, religion, etc.

Discrimination can manifest in various forms, such as employment or housing.

Question 14

What is positive discrimination?

Answer 14

Treating people more favourably because they have been discriminated against in the past

It aims to level the playing field for disadvantaged groups.

Question 15

What is homophobia?

Answer 15

Discrimination or prejudice against homosexual people

This can lead to social exclusion and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals.

Question 16

What does the term ‘wealth inequality’ refer to?

Answer 16

The gap between the rich and the poor in society

It highlights disparities in income and resources.

Question 17

How do Christians view wealth?

Answer 17

Wealth is not wrong in itself; it depends on how it is used

Christians are encouraged to use wealth for good and support those in need.

Question 18

What is Zakat in Islam?

Answer 18

A form of almsgiving, typically 2.5% of surplus income

It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and emphasizes charity.

Question 19

Define exploitation.

Answer 19

Taking advantage of someone

Exploitation can occur in various contexts, including labor and economic systems.

Question 20

What is people-trafficking?

Answer 20

Illegally transporting people for forced labor or sexual exploitation

It is a serious violation of human rights.

Question 21

What are some causes of prejudice?

Answer 21

• Lack of education
• Upbringing
• Media influence
• Fear
• Ignorance
• Bad experiences

Understanding these causes can help combat prejudice.

Question 22

Who is responsible for helping the poor?

Answer 22

• The Government
• The Poor
• Charities
• Religions

Each entity has a role in addressing poverty and supporting those in need.

Question 23

What does the term ‘usury’ refer to?

Answer 23

Lending money at unreasonably high rates of interest

It can lead to cycles of debt and financial exploitation.

Question 24

What is homophobia?

Answer 24

Discrimination or prejudice against homosexual people

This term encompasses negative attitudes and behaviors towards individuals based on their sexual orientation.

Question 25

Define gender prejudice.

Answer 25

Prejudice or discrimination because of gender

This can manifest in various forms, including workplace discrimination and societal biases.

Question 26

What is racism?

Answer 26

Prejudice and discrimination based on ethnic group, believing skin colour determines ability

Racism can lead to systemic inequality and social injustice.

Question 27

What is disability prejudice?

Answer 27

Occurs in the workplace or when someone is denied access to services

This form of discrimination can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

Question 28

What do Quaker Christians believe about homosexuality?

Answer 28

All are made in the ‘image of God’; it is natural for that person to be gay

The quality of the relationship is emphasized over sexual orientation.

Question 29

What is the modern view of the Church of England regarding gender roles?

Answer 29

Women can be leaders; all are equal and made in God’s image

This reflects a progressive stance on gender equality within the church.

Question 30

How does Christianity view racial equality?

Answer 30

Everyone is made in the ‘image of God’; all races are equal

Jesus taught to ‘love your neighbour as yourself’ and emphasized caring for people from other races.

Question 31

What did St. Paul teach about equality in Galatians?

Answer 31

There is no Greek or Jew, slave or free, but all are one in Christ Jesus

This teaching reinforces the notion of unity and equality among believers.

Question 32

What is the traditional Roman Catholic view on homosexual acts?

Answer 32

Homosexual acts are wrong, but gay people should not be treated badly

This view is based on interpretations of Natural Moral Law and traditional teachings.

Question 33

What roles do Roman Catholics traditionally assign to women?

Answer 33

Women are to bring up children and run the home

This reflects a traditional view of gender roles within the church.

Question 34

True or False: Christianity teaches that all forms of discrimination are wrong.

Answer 34

True

The teachings emphasize the inherent dignity of every individual.

Question 35

Fill in the blank: Jesus taught his followers to ‘______ one another’.

Answer 35

love

This commandment is central to Christian ethics and interpersonal relationships.

Question 36

Which biblical figure is mentioned as an important female leader in the Early Church?

Answer 36

Phoebe

Her commendation by Paul highlights women’s roles in the early Christian community.