Unit 2: Morality and Relationships

Question 1

What moral issues are raised about gender roles? (4)

Answer 1

• Sexism is still a big issue. For example, different roles can often lead to the perception that men and women shouldn’t have equal treatment.
• Glass ceiling – women can see the top jobs such as managerial positions and CEO but can’t break through the glass ceiling to get them.
• The pay gap – despite the Equal Pay Act of 1970 women are still paid on average between 15 and 20% less than men. Taking time off to have and care for children has been identified as a contributory factor.
• Stereotyping – women are often stereotyped in terms of personality traits, roles and hobbies. Men are stereotyped too (ex: being associated with blue)
  Stereotypes then lead to prejudice and unfair discrimination
• Discrimination – women still face discrimination eg. in the workplace women might be overlooked for promotion or not be given certain jobs because they are at the childbearing age, sexual harassment etc.

Question 2

Explain the possible impact of having different gender roles in society. (6)

Answer 2

With gender roles, women will continue to be expected to be a housewife, with the job of cooking, cleaning and looking after the children.

Men may also be seen as the breadwinners who are expected to go to work and to provide for their families. Some feel their role extends to making decisions on behalf of the family (ex: in management of finance). This will continue to happen with gender roles.

Men may feel that they have to keep their stress and emotions to themselves because it is stereotyped that men are seen as the brave ones.

Gender roles may lead to women being in caring jobs (ex: nursing) and men in heavy labour jobs (ex: engineering).

If gender roles are taught to children, this can lead to these opinions being internalised in their minds, which influences their identities and attitudes as they grow up.

By having gender roles, this could lead to a significant pay gap between men and women for the same job, as employers think that men/women are more suited for it.

Question 3

Choose a non-religious viewpoint you have studied. Describe what it says about gender roles. (4)

Answer 3

UTILITARIANISM

• Utilitarianism often values efficiency and productivity in achieving societal goals. Gender roles that restrict individuals’ access to education, employment, or leadership positions based on their gender may be viewed as inefficient from a utilitarian perspective.
• Utilitarianism prioritizes the prevention of harm and suffering as imperative. Gender roles that perpetuate stereotypes, discrimination, or violence against certain genders are considered morally wrong if they result in harm to individuals or groups.
• Utilitarianism values individual autonomy and the pursuit of happiness as fundamental. Gender roles that restrict individuals’ freedom to choose their own paths in life or pursue their own goals and interests based on their gender are seen as contrary to its principles.
• Utilitarianism encourages consideration of the long-term consequences of actions and policies on overall happiness and well-being. Gender roles that perpetuate inequalities or reinforce harmful stereotypes may have negative long-term effects on societal cohesion, mental health, and social justice, which are against its principles.

Question 4

Choose a religious viewpoint you have studied. Describe what it says about gender roles. (4)

Answer 4

• Catholicism often emphasizes the complementary nature of gender roles, teaching that men and women have distinct roles within the family, society, and the Church.
• Catholicism also emphasizes the inherent dignity and equality of all human beings, regardless of gender. According to CST, both men and women are created in the image and likeness of God and possess equal worth and value.
• A Christian might say that God created men and women equally as shown in Genesis 1, where humans are created on day six. Therefore, some may argue that there is no need for distinct roles in family or church life.
• In Catholicism, women may be seen as a helper or companion to men. For example, women are not allowed to take up priestly roles in the Church, but they can read readings at Mass.

Question 5

“Different gender roles shouldn’t be accepted in the modern world.”
How far do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (8)

Answer 5

FOR

Women deserve an equal role in the Church because they have the spiritual qualities needed to play an important part in the Church such as ministers, elders and even bishops in the Church of England, Scotland and many other churches.

There are many quotes which seem to go against gender roles, and push for equality, such as St Paul’s in Galatians: ”There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus”.

Jesus had friendships with women which were very important such as Mary Magdalene who was the first woman to see Jesus after he had been resurrected.

The story of Genesis could be seen as against gender roles as both men and women were created on the last day in the image of God because they were both special.

AGAINST

Christianity supports gender roles because women are not able to reach the same level as males for example, in the Roman Catholic Church women are exempt from being priests.

There are many quotes which seem to go push gender roles in society. In Timothy women are meant to be submissive in Church. ‘I do not permit a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man; she is to remain quiet’

Traditional gender roles have been upheld within Catholicism for centuries, and many argue that this historical precedent should be respected and maintained.

Some Catholics view marriage as supporting gender roles within, with the husband as the head of the household and the wife as the nurturer.

Question 6

“A person who is true to their religion should always treat men and women equally.”
How far do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (8)

Answer 6

FOR

Many religious traditions, including Christianity, teach the fundamental equality of all human beings before the divine. For example: ”For God does not show favoritism.” - Romans 2:11

A person true to their religion will realise that it is part of ethics and justice in the modern world to treat all with compassion, not in a way that makes one gender subordinate to the other.

Equality between men and women fosters social justice and harmony within communities and societies. By aiming for this, we can have an equitable society, which is emphasised in religious scripture.

Embracing equality between men and women facilitates interfaith dialogue. Recognising and respecting the equal worth of individuals promotes understanding and tolerance.

Women and men are equal, but may have different roles within society, shown in this Bible verse: “A woman shall not wear a man’s garment, nor shall a man put on a woman’s cloak, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord your God.”

AGAINST

Religious texts emphasise gender distinctions and push gender inequality between men and women. For example: ”Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord.” - Ephesians 5:22 (first part)

An argument for gender inequality is that women were not chosen by Jesus to be one of his 12 disciples in the New Testament.

The story of Adam and Eve could be seen as an argument for gender inequality as Eve is seen as the Temptress who causes the Fall of humankind.

Question 7

Describe two gender roles. (6)

Answer 7

One traditional gender roles is that men are expected to be the provider of the household.
They are expected to be smart, brave and masculine. Men are also associated with being aggressive and dominant. They are also expected not to ever share their feelings with others, especially with their partner.

Another gender role is that women stay at home to cook, clean and take care of the children. They are expected to look small and delicate. They are also seen as emotional and the submissive partner.

Question 8

Describe some reasons why people may form relationships with each other. (4)

Answer 8

• People may form relationships with one another because they want friendship/companionship
• People may need personal/professional support
• People may want to share mutual interest & pleasure
• People want to have the basis to start a family

Question 9

Choose a religious viewpoint you have studied. Describe what it says about the purpose of sex. (4)

Answer 9

• Catholics believe that the purpose of sex is procreative. This means to start a family/children
• Catholics believe he purpose of sex is unitive, to form a connection with one another and become one
• Catholics believe that sex is a gift from God
• Catholics believe that sex should never undermine the dignity of the human person

Question 10

Explain moral issues arising from consent. (4)

Answer 10

• A moral issue arising from consent is that people who are drunk may never have given consent when sober
• Another moral issue is that people may find it hard to give consent when they are being peer pressured
• Another moral issue is that when there’s a power imbalance, there can be a damaging relationship between the two partners
• Another moral issue is that even with consent, one partner may not understand what they are consenting to

Question 11

“Religious and non-religious views disagree with each other on sex.” To what extent is this true? Give reasons for your answer. (8)

Answer 11

AGREE:

• Sex is a gift from God and that it is something to be enjoyed between a man and a woman who are married.
• Whereas for non-religious people sex has nothing to do with God and doesn’t need to be between a man and a woman and you do not need to be married to them
• Non-religious people’s rules about sex will be more likely to be based on the law, contrary to religious people who will base it on scripture.
• Religion often teaches that sex is for the purpose of having children and for example in the Catholic Church the use of artificial contraception is restricted.
• However, non-religious views may see sex as something that can be enjoyed for its own sake and therefore the use of contraception is encouraged.

DISAGREE:

• Both religious and non-religious views can still agree that sex is an expression of love and can make a relationship stronger
• They can agree that there still need to be rules about who you can have sex with. For example, as religious texts forbid incest, as does the law
• Both religious and non-religious views agree that cheating on someone you are married to is wrong
• Some religious and non-religious views might agree that having sex out-with marriage is acceptable providing that it is based on love and commitment.

Question 12

Choose a religious viewpoint you have studied. Describe what it says about marriage. (4)

Answer 12

Catholics believe that marriage is a relationship that is loving, life-giving and based on total commitment.

Marriage provides a strong, healthy foundation upon which a family is built.

Marriage is a gift from God which allows the couple to live in comfort and companionship.

Christian marriage is for life and is permanent and exclusive

Sacramental marriage is a sign for the Church because God’s love is reflected in the love the husband and wife have for each other.

Question 13

What moral issues are raised by sexual relationships? (4)

Answer 13

Can lead to unwanted pregnancy.

It’s unclear as to what age are you mature enough to deal with the emotions surrounding sexual relationships.

If people have sexual activity without artificial contraception they could contract HIV or STIs.

People run the risk of being hurt by their partner in sexual relationships.

Question 14

What moral issues are raised by same-sex relationships? (4)

Answer 14

Not enough support for same-sex couples suffering from lack of acceptance in society.

Some people may disagree with same-sex relationships for moral or religious reasons because they think that sexual relationships are for having children.

People may feel that they are forbidden by their scriptures and it goes against God’s commands.

There might be disagreement as to whether people in a same sex relationship should be allowed to get married, because this redefines the definition of marriage.

Question 15

Describe moral issues arising from arranged marriages. (4)

Answer 15

• The couple may not have met each other prior to marriage and therefore not know what to expect.
• In certain cultures, arranged marriages may be purely based on horoscopes or what caste you belong to, which might mean couple might not find true love.
• Some arranged marriages may be first cousin marriages or another type of family marriage, which increases the probability of genetic issues.
• Some people in 3rd world countries may get arranged marriages so that they can get residency in the UK and live a better life, not based on marriage.

Question 16

Describe why people want to form sexual relationships with each other. (4)

Answer 16

They may wish to have children.

They may with to have pleasure or enjoyment.

Some sexual relationships are as a result of peer pressure.

Humans may have a feeling to have sexual relationships because this is how lineage continues.

Question 17

Choose a non-religious view you have studied. Describe what it says about sexual relationships. (5)

Answer 17

Utilitarians believe in the most happiness for the most people, so sexual relationships that are based on respect would be acceptable.

They also believe that sexual relationships as a result of incest, rape, peer pressure as unacceptable because it doesn’t make the most people happy.

However, you could argue with act utilitarianism that if two people are having an affair and one person is being cheated on then this makes the majority of people happy.

Rule utilitarianism would argue that this would not be acceptable as infidelity would not result in happiness for the greatest number.

Rule utilitarians would agree that there should be rules about sex in society; for example, consent, protection of the vulnerable.

Question 18

Choose a non-religious viewpoint you have studied. Describe what it says about divorce. (4)

Answer 18

Utilitarians believe that an action is morally right if it causes maximum happiness to a maximum amount of people.

• If divorce makes both the man and woman happy, then divorce is acceptable. For example, if the marriage is filled with conflict or unhappiness, then divorce if the right thing to do.
• If staying in a relationship doesn’t allow individual fulfilment, then divorce is morally correct because it goes against the utilitarian rule of maximising well-being
• If divorce has positive long-term effects where both parties can have a stable and happy future, then divorce is morally acceptable.
• However, if divorce will lead to children receiving an upbringing where they are neglected, then divorce is not right because it goes against the rule of maximum well-being.

Question 19

“Divorce should not have anything to do with religion” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (8)

Answer 19

AGREE:

• Individuals can decide on divorce based on their personal feelings without religious teachings affecting them, if it brings them happiness.
• Letting religion decide if you divorce can be limiting and restricts personal freedom.
• Traditional religious views on divorce may not align with new understandings of relationships.
• Using religious doctrine to control divorce can cause inequality & exclusion to those who don’t come from religious backgrounds.
• Some religious teachings may force a couple not to divorcewhich can negatively impact the mental health of both parties.

DISAGREE:

• Divorce decisions should include some respect for religious traditions as some religions have many conditions regarding divorce. Not keeping it in mind can go against peoples deeply held beliefs.
• Religious communities often have moral support for struggling married couples, removing religion form the picture may deprive people of this moral help.
• Ignoring religious views may make people have a moral dilemma as marriage is seen as a sacred bond in Catholicism.
• Religious involvement in divorce may help people find spiritual healing.

Question 20

“Religion is too strict about sexual relationships.” How far do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (8)

Answer 20

AGREE

Sex should be enjoyed and as long as it makes the partners happy there is no need for rules

Private lives should be respected and it is nobody else’s business what they do, including religious views or people.

in Britain the majority of people aren’t religious so shouldn’t be bound by religious rules about sex

in some places, there are rules that lead to discrimination and/or persecution, for example, homophobia

As long as it doesn’t harm anyone, people should be free to express themselves sexually however they like.

DISAGREE

Some might say religious laws about sex are needed to protect vulnerable people from exploitation and abuse.

Some religious people may feel it is important to follow the rules of their religion when it comes to sex because God knows best for people

We still need general rules of decency regarding sexual relationships, which is a sign of respect for others and can be found in religion.

Overall wellbeing of society is more important than the individual’s freedom to practice sex particularly if it harms others.

Question 21

Explain why marriage sometimes raises moral issues. (6)

Answer 21

• In arranged marriage, the couple may not have got to know each other properly to know if they are compatible, which could lead to unhappiness
• The marriage may have been forced, where the couple had no choice in their partner.
• Couples may have felt pressured to marry due to religious or societal pressures.
• There are issues where marriages end unhappily and children get involved which could also cause them pain and suffering.
• With marriage there can be issues like domestic violence and the person may feel like they have to stay because they are joined by marriage.
• Couple may feel unfulfilled in their marriage which could cause cheating which leads to more unhappiness

Question 22

“Marriage isn’t important in the modern world.” How far do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (8)

Answer 22

AGREE

Marriage is just a bit of paper and nowadays couples can have a meaningful relationship without getting married.

Divorce rate is very high — over a third of marriages end in divorce. So if marriage isn’t life-long, why bother?

Weddings can be very expensive, so many people put off getting married so they can spend money on other more important things

There are alternatives to marriage such as civil partnerships.

DISAGREE

Marriage provides companionship, stability and security.

Marriage gives children a strong and stable family network.

For Christian people marriage is a gift from God and marrying in a Church is a way of showing your love.

LGBT groups have been campaigning to have the right to get married so for some marriage is important for equality.

Question 23

Describe some reasons why people get married. (4)

Answer 23

• As a stable foundation to start a family
• Deep love and commitment for each other
• Mutual religious beliefs
• Legal and financial benefits ex: inheritance rights

Question 24

Choose a non-religious viewpoint you have studied. Describe what it says about marriage. (4)

Answer 24

Utilitarianism believes in the greatest good for the greatest number and encouraging people to consider the good of others. Utilitarians are likely to be in favour of marriage because:

• Provides the best setting for bringing up children to be mature and responsible
• Important in maintaining a safe and stable society
• Provides a legal framework for relationships
• Interests of both partners and children can be protected

Question 25

“Religion is too strict about marriage.” How far do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (8)

Answer 25

AGREE: - People may feel scared to **commit to marriage** as some religions look down on divorce - Some religions strongly discourage **interfaith** marriage which can make people feel **restricted** - Some religious traditions place strict expectations on **gender roles** ex: men have to be the financial provider and women take care of the house, which can create a **power imbalance**. - Some religious traditions pressure a person to marry **young** which could **limit freedom** and cause **stress** DISAGREE: - Religious boundaries are there as a strength as it provides a **moral framework** for a **long-lasting**, happy relationship. - In many cases, religious views have become more **flexible** with marriage. For example, some Christian denominations allow divorce and remarriage. - Religious institutions often provide support for couples through **counselling** and **advice**. This can help them **navigate challenges** later on in life. - Many people marry within a religious framework as a **voluntary** commitment as opposed to something **forced**.

Question 26

“People should wait until they are married to have sex.” How far do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (8)

Answer 26

**AGREE** Marriage provides **companionship, stability and security**, with one person in a sexual relationship. Marriage gives children a **strong** and **stable family network**. For **Christian** people marriage is a **gift from God** and having sexual relationships is a way of strengthening that bond. For **Catholics**, having sexual relationships before marriage is **not acceptable**, so many will **choose not to** until they are married. **DISAGREE** Sex **should be enjoyed** and as long as it makes the **partners happy** there is no need for rules **Private lives** should be respected and it is **nobody else’s business** what they do, including religious views or people. in Britain the **majority** of people **aren’t religious** so shouldn’t be bound by religious rules about sex before marriage. As long as it **doesn’t harm** anyone, people should be **free to express** themselves sexually however they like.

Question 27

“People should be able to marry whoever they want.” How far do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (8)

Answer 27

**AGREE** If a person wants to follow their **personal preference** over **religion**, they should be able to, especially in a **secular society**. Marrying someone of your choice can allow for a **stronger** and more **stable family network**. Marrying someone of your choice may allow for **better understanding** between partners. It can be **difficult** for people to live with someone they didn’t want to marry. **DISAGREE** Marrying whoever you want may **alienate** you from your more **conservative friends and family**. A **Christian** may try **finding another Christian** to get married to. This allows for **both partners** to be on the **same path**, allowing for better understanding. Additionally, marrying someone of the **same worldview** allows for your **children** to follow the **same path** as you. There needs to be **some rules** in place regarding **certain marriage issues** (ex: interfaith marriage, polygamy). Not having these rules could lead to a **person acting immorally** in a marriage.

Question 28

“Religious and non-religious views disagree on marriage.” How far do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (8)

Answer 28

AGREE: - Many religions believe that marriage is a **sacred union blessed by God** or a higher power, but non-religious people see it as a **personal/legal** commitment to someone - Many religions prohibit **same-sex marriages** but non-religious people don’t see it as a big deal - Religious people usually have a **marriage ceremony** conducted by a religious leader with certain steps, but non-religious people don’t see it to do with God and they might just go to a **registry** - Christianity doesn’t allow **contraception** as it goes against the natural purpose of marriage to **procreate** but non-religious people may see having children at a certain point to be a **personal choice** DISAGREE: - Both religious and non-religious people agree that marriage is based on **love**and **commitment** - Both agree that marriage allows for **family stability** - Both agree that **mutual consent** is very important - Both agree that marriage can build **strong communities**

Question 29

What moral issues are raised by equality? (4)

Answer 29

Some may argue that equality undermines the **historical precedence** that gender roles should be in place. Equality can result in **everyone thinking** that they can **do everything** and be everything, even though it **exceeds reality**, or there are **physical/emotional boundaries** to it. Sometimes a **woman** might just be chosen for **jobs** they **don’t deserve**, to balance the books. Sometimes **ethnic minorities** might be **selected** over the more deserving **ethnic majority**, so that the university isn’t seen as prejudiced.

Question 30

Describe why people might get divorced? (4)

Answer 30

- **Domestic abuse** including physical or mental abuse - If someone has **had an affair** with someone else - If the couple **can’t get along** with each other anymore - To get **remarried** to someone different.

Question 31

What moral issues are raised by inequality? (6)

Answer 31

All kinds of inequality goes against the **basic right** of humans, who are born free and equal. Gender roles can get in the way of people meeting their **potential** and pursuing their **interests** Women continue to face a **pay gap**, for example, being paid up to **15%** less than men for **equal work**, meaning they are economically disadvantaged Glass ceiling ― many women can see the top jobs but **can’t break through** to reach them. For example, the percentage of female CEOs is less than 5% If people are being **abused** at home/work, they can contract **mental health** problems

Question 32

Choose a religious viewpoint you have studied. Describe what it says about equality. (4)

Answer 32

**Jesus disregarded barriers** which existed between people because of gender and ethnicity. He **elevated** the position of **women in society**. There is neither **Jew nor Gentile**, neither **slave nor free**, nor is there **male and female**, for you are all **one** in Christ Jesus’ (Galatians) Some Christians believe **men and women** should have **different roles**, and that only men can have authority in the church ― ‘Women should remain silent in the church’ Women are **not allowed** to become **priests** in the Catholic Church, which arguably decreases equality.

Question 33

Explain moral issues arising from divorce. (4)

Answer 33

- Marriage is a **vow** made to God, divorcing breaks the promise made to **God** and your partner - **Children** might be **harmed** if parents divorce, causing them to possibly be **deprived** from one of their parents - Some people believe marriage needs to be **worked at** and people should try **fixing their problems** before jumping to divorce - Some people feel marriage is good for a **society** as a whole, and people should try to stay together

Question 34

Choose a non-religious viewpoint you have studied. Describe what it says about equality. (4)

Answer 34

Utilitarianism states that if breaking the **glass ceiling** for women and allowing them to reach **top jobs** makes the most happy, this is more morally correct. Utilitarianism states that if closing the **pay gap** for women makes the most happy, this is more morally correct. Utilitarianism states that if sometimes **favouring ethnic minorities** to **avoid prejudice** can make more people happy compared to if you only chose the majority, this is more morally correct. Utilitarianism states that if favouring **women over men** for a **certain job** (even if men are more deserving), makes the most amount happy, this is more morally correct.

Question 35

Choose a religious viewpoint you have studied. Describe what it says about divorce. (4)

Answer 35

- Catholics believe that if one divorces their partner **legally**, they cannot get married again and if they do, it is considered **adultery.** - Catholics believe that marriage is a **sacrament** and a promise made before God, so this promise **can’t be dissolved** by civil divorce - Although divorce is not accepted, the marriage can be **annulled** if it can be proven that the marriage **wasn’t valid** in the first place. - Catholic teachings encourage **forgiveness and reconciliation** meaning the couple should try and **sort out their differences** first

Question 36

What moral issues are raised by exploitation? (6)

Answer 36

Exploitation often leads to the **violation** of **basic human rights**, denying individuals their **fundamental freedoms**. Exploitation often results in **economic inequality** and **unfair distribution of resources**. For example, **workers** in **developing countries** may be paid low and unfairly. Exploitation disproportionately **affects vulnerable groups**, including children, women, and ethnic minorities, due to **lack** of power, education, or resources. Exploitation can lead to the **dehumanisation of individuals**, treating them as tools for profit or personal gain. Those who are exploited often suffer from severe **emotional** and **psychological harm**. Exploitation leads to **environmental degradation**. For example, exploitative practices in industries such as mining or deforestation can lead to significant environmental harm.

Question 37

Explain how the media might contribute to exploitation. (6)

Answer 37

The use of **photo shop/advertising** means that people are comparing themselves to **unrealistic images** of what it means to be a man or a woman. Pornography — **unrealistic images** and expectations of both men and women and of sex. **Stereotyping** that perpetuates a **false view**, which leads to exploitation. Social media **exploits children** who are vulnerable to being **groomed**. **Selfie culture** means that some people feel **under pressure** to put pictures of themselves and others can criticise. **TV and film** — unrealistic expectations and gender roles — for example, TV can show how dreamy a relationship can be, but it isn’t always like that in reality. **Women** in the **media** have been shown to be **paid unequally** to men.

Question 38

“The media should treat all people equally.” How far do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (8).

Answer 38

AGREE: - Treating people equally allows for **equal rights** and **opportunities** for all races - It reduces **stereotypes** and **discrimination** and allows for all people to **coexist** - The media can **steer public opinion** and almost indoctrinate people to treat each other with **respect** - Giving **equal representation** in movies or TV shows can **boost** minority group’s **self-esteem** DISAGREE: - Being unequal by giving more attention to **marginalised** groups can **raise awareness** about them - Some content may be targeted at certain groups, which may **not be relevant** to others - The media often gives **more coverage** to those who have **power** and are **accountable** for certain **actions** - Equal treatment could also cause a **lack** of **cultural understanding** or certain groups being **misrepresented**