Ends and Means

LIVE Event for students of Ethics for AS/A Level Religious Studies
With Dr Peter Vardy

Dates for 2026-27

● London, 19th November
● Manchester, 23rd February
● Coventry, 9th March
● London, 12th March

Building on the success of “Athens or Jerusalem?” and “Human Nature” in 2025-26, Candle Conferences presents an all-new LIVE event for students of the Philosophy of Religion for AS / A Level Religious Studies. “Ends & Means” will explore content specified by ALL ENGLISH EXAMINATION BOARDS, focusing on the compulsory Ethics paper. The event aims to get students really excited about the subject, enriching and extending their knowledge and understanding as well as supporting them in analysing, evaluating and making informed, well-reasoned academic judgements.

Sessions include…

Ends & Meanings: Meta-Ethics & What Does ‘Good’ Really Mean?
In this introductory session, Dr Vardy will guide students through the fascinating world of meta-ethics, exploring the very foundations of moral philosophy. Using real-life scenarios and thought experiments, participants will investigate the question: “What does it really mean to say something is ‘good’?” Students will be encouraged to consider different perspectives on moral language, including ethical naturalism, ethical intuitionism and emotivism. The session will culminate in a collaborative group activity, where students will apply these ideas to make carefully reasoned academic judgments, setting the stage for deeper ethical analysis throughout the day.
Do the Ends Justify the Means? Diving into Utilitarianism
This session will examine Utilitarianism, exploring the principle that the morality of an action is determined by its consequences and the greatest happiness it produces. Dr Vardy will introduce the key thinkers – including Bentham, Mill and Singer – as well as unpacking the differences between act and rule utilitarianism. Through practical examples—from everyday choices to contemporary ethical dilemmas—students will learn how to weigh costs, benefits, and wider consequences. The session will conclude with a whole-group discussion, allowing participants to debate the strengths and limitations of Utilitarian thought, and consider its relevance to the modern world.
Treat People Always as Ends: Understanding Kantian Ethics
In this session, students will explore Kantian Ethics, focusing on the idea that individuals should always be treated as ends in themselves, never merely as means. Dr Vardy will guide learners through key concepts such as the categorical imperative, duty, and moral law, illustrating these ideas with accessible examples and moral dilemmas. Participants will engage in a hands-on activity designed to strengthen their essay-writing skills, helping them structure persuasive arguments and critically evaluate Kantian principles in preparation for their exams.
The Ethics of Exploitation: Debating Moral Boundaries
The final session of the day will challenge students to consider the ethical limits of action: is it ever acceptable to exploit humans, animals, or the environment for a greater good? Dr Vardy will present contemporary case studies, from corporate practices to environmental issues, prompting students to weigh competing ethical principles. The session will culminate in a formal debate on the motion: “This house believes that the ends justify any means of achieving them.” Students will work in teams to prepare evidence-based arguments, engage in dynamic discussion, and apply the day’s learning before a final vote determines the group’s verdict.

Our Speaker

Dr. Peter Vardy was Vice Principal of Heythrop College, University of London (1999-2011); he is internationally well-known as a leader in the fields of Religious Studies, Philosophy and Ethics and Values Education. Peter’s many books – including the best-selling “Puzzle of” series for HarperCollins – demonstrate his ability to communicate complex ideas with clarity, accuracy and humour. For more than three decades schools and colleges have looked to Peter to provide outstanding conferences, resources and CPD / INSET, both to support their work in RS and Philosophy and more broadly.

Did you know? Peter was awarded an honorary doctorate for his work in promoting Religious Studies in schools by the University of Chichester in 2021.

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