Different religious views about weapons of mass destruction
I can explain different Christian responses to weapons of mass destructions.
Different religious views about weapons of mass destruction
I can explain different Christian responses to weapons of mass destructions.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- WMDs break Just War principles by causing indiscriminate, excessive harm and not protecting civilians.
- Bible teachings like “Do not murder” and “Blessed are the peace-makers” support opposition to WMDs.
- Church views differ: Methodists reject all WMDs; others may allow deterrence as a step toward peace.
- Ethical theories like Natural Law and Situation Ethics are used to judge whether possession is ever right.
- Some Christians accept deterrence if it protects life and fulfils government duty to defend citizens.
Keywords
Disarmament - reducing or eliminating weapons
Nuclear deterrence - having nuclear weapons with the aim of deterring/preventing other states attacking for fear of retaliation and nuclear war (possibly leading to Mutually Assured Destruction)
Weapons of mass destruction - weapons which cause widespread, indiscriminate damage (e.g. nuclear, chemical, biological)
Common misconception
Christians agree that no country should possess any weapons of mass destruction.
While Christians oppose the use of weapons of mass destruction because it contradicts teachings like the sanctity of life, some may accept their possession as a temporary deterrent if it helps prevent war and protect life.
To help you plan your year 11 religious education lesson on: Different religious views about weapons of mass destruction, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 religious education lesson on: Different religious views about weapons of mass destruction, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Explore more key stage 4 religious education lessons from the Religion, peace and conflict unit, dive into the full secondary religious education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
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Adult supervision recommended
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