This textbook covers the new OCR (Oxford Cambridge and RSA Requirement) course specification for the Philosophy of Religion at A2 Level. The book will be published in time for the first teaching of the new specification in September 2009.

Following the AS Level book already commissioned, the next natural step forward would be an A2 text. At present there are 8000 candidates for the revised A2 at OCR, and it is at year 2 that the greatest need for an accurate text exists. Among rivals, there is no specific A2 Philosophy of Religion book, and in recent years there have been significant problems for candidates because of errors in other works. It is also at A2 that there is the need for developed ‘Stretch and Challenge’ material – this is not available in other texts which tend simply to suggest what candidates might read for themselves. This material is clearly highlighted as additional to the text. Given that the majority of teachers of this subject are not themselves philosophers, there is a need for a readable text which provides sufficient background for both teachers and students.

Fundamental concepts covered include arguments for the existence of God, including the Ontological, Cosmological, Moral and Teleological Arguments, as well as challenges to faith from the Problem of Evil and other sources. Background material from ancient philosophy and the Judaeo-Christian tradition is explained, and there are specially developed sections on Verification and Meaning, The Falsification Debate, Language Games and the Afterlife. The section on Divine Attributes covers an area that is new to the course specification. The authors have focused on original sources to ensure that errors which creep into textbooks by repetition are avoided.

The book will carry three important appendices: guidance on how to write a philosophy essay; revision notes, examination advice and suggestions for further reading.

The authors are well-known as past and present Principal Examiners of the subject.