What is Philosophy?
Philosophy means, literally, the love of wisdom. The philosophy major provides an in-depth study of some of the most fundamental questions of human existence - questions concerning the nature of reality, knowledge, and value. If you have ever wondered about the meaning of life, the existence of God, the best system of political organization, what makes a work of art a work of art, whether humans are by nature good or evil, or what the right thing to do is, then you've already begun to think philosophically. In a way, we are all philosophers, and the study of philosophy serves to satisfy the natural curiosity we human beings have for a wider - and wiser - understanding of ourselves and of our place in the world. You will be trained to become a disciplined, imaginative, and independent thinker, and you'll learn how to reason carefully through both profound and mundane questions by engaging in the practice of critical thinking and argument analysis. You'll develop a sensitive awareness and understanding of social and moral issues, and of your ethical obligations toward the greater good. Ultimately, you will be able to make up your own mind about fundamental philosophical questions, and to communicate your views on them clearly and succinctly. Along the way, you will discover the rewards of pursuing knowledge for its own sake. Completion of the major provides a solid foundation for graduate study in philosophy and other fields such as law and medicine, as well as preparing students for careers in such diverse areas as social services, education, government service, medicine, communications, publishing, and business.
Philosophy is an excellent minor or second major for students majoring in some other discipline of the arts, humanities, sciences, or professional studies. Proficiency in creative and critical thinking, conceptual analysis, and problem solving will serve you well both in your major course of study, and in the vocation you ultimately choose to pursue.
Highlights for the Philosophy Major:
- Trains students in critical reasoning and problem solving skills that are in increasing demand in the workplace
- Teaches students to approach theoretical and practical issues from a variety of perspectives
- Provides students with skills enabling them to perform consistently better on LSAT, GRE, and GMAT examinations than most other majors