Religion has been and is an integral part of human experience and a component of every culture. An appreciation of society is enhanced by an understanding of religion, its influence on human behaviour and interaction within culture.
The Stage 6 Studies of Religion syllabus acknowledges religion as a distinctive answer to the human need for meaning in life. An understanding of religion provides a perspective for the human view of reality and deals with daily living as well as with the ultimate source, meaning and goal of life. Religion is generally characterised by a worldview that recognises a supernatural dimension – belief in divinity or powers beyond the human and/or dwelling within the human.
The Studies of Religion syllabus acknowledges that there are many ways of studying religion. It investigates the significance of the role of religion in society and, in particular, within Australian society. It recognises and appreciates the place and importance of Aboriginal belief systems and spiritualties in Australia. This syllabus enables students who live in a multi-faith and multicultural society to progress from a broad understanding of religious traditions to specific studies within these traditions. The syllabus provides a focus on religious expression in Australia and, also, investigates religion's place within the global community.
Nature of Religion and Beliefs
The focus of this study is the nature of religion and beliefs, including Australian Aboriginal beliefs and spiritualities, as a distinctive response to the human search for meaning in life.
Religious Tradition Studies
This syllabus considers the five major religious traditions to be Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam and Judaism.
Additional content for SOR II Preliminary Course
Religions of Ancient Origin
The focus of this study is the response of religions of ancient origin to the human search for ultimate meaning and purpose.
Religion in Australia pre-1945
The focus of this study is the establishment and development of religious traditions in Australia pre-1945.
HSC Course
Religion and Belief Systems in Australia post-1945
The focus of this study is religious expression in Australia's multicultural and multi-faith society since 1945. The study includes an appreciation of Aboriginal spiritualties and their contribution to an understanding of religious beliefs and religious expression in Australia today.
Religious Traditions Depth Studies
This syllabus considers the five major religious traditions to be Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam and Judaism.
Additional content for SOR II HSC Course
Religion and Peace
The focus of this study is the distinctive response of religious traditions to the issue of peace.
Religion and Non-Religion
The focus of this study is the human search for meaning through religion and non-religion.