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Philosophy
Philosophic inquiry aims, ultimately, at a general understanding of the whole of reality. It draws on the insights of the great historical philosophers, on what has been learned in all other major fields of study, and on the rich perspectives embodied within ordinary ways of thinking. Philosophers address a diverse array of deep, challenging, and profoundly important questions. Examples include the nature of the self and of personal identity; the existence or nonexistence of God; the nature of time, mind, language, and science; the sources and limits of human knowledge; the nature of the good life; the foundations of state authority; the requirements of social justice; and the nature of art, beauty, and aesthetic experience. Philosophical questions are addressed not by reference to empirical information alone, but by means of analysis, synthesis, argument, and the construction and evaluation of philosophical theories.
What attracts students to philosophy is the intrinsic interest of its subject matter. But the study of philosophy has practical benefits as well. Philosophy majors are practiced in the close reading of complex texts, in the careful analysis and evaluation of arguments, in original and creative thinking, and in the clear, precise, and persuasive communication of ideas. The skills thus acquired are not only a source of deep personal satisfaction, but a strong asset in any profession. That the study of philosophy is highly effective in enhancing academic skills is evidenced by the fact that philosophy majors receive exceptionally high scores on the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT), the Graduate Record Exam (GRE), and other standardized admissions tests.
Since philosophy examines the presuppositions and the basic concepts and methods of all other disciplines, a minor in philosophy can be an ideal complement to a major in any other field of study. In addition to the perspective it offers on other fields, a minor in philosophy sharpens intellectual skills, opens a broad intellectual vista, and affords an opportunity to consider fundamental questions of human concern.
Departmental Honors Program
To provide superior students the option of advanced work in philosophy, the department offers H-Options in all 200- to 500-level courses other than P265. To graduate with honors in philosophy, a student must complete at least 24 credit hours of honors work, including at least 12 credit hours in philosophy and at least 6 credit hours outside philosophy, and must satisfy the requirements for a major in philosophy. The student must maintain a minimum overall grade point average of 3.3, with a 3.5 in philosophy and a 3.5 in honors courses. For further information, contact the department chair.
Requirements
To assure a properly balanced program of study, courses should be selected in consultation with a department advisor.
A minimum of 30 credit hours in philosophy, including:
- A basic survey of philosophy (either P110, Intro. to Philosophy; or S110, Intro. to Philosophy - Honors).
- A basic course in ethics (either P120, Ethics; or S120, Ethics - Honors).
- A basic course in logic (either P162, Logic; or P265, Introduction to Symbolic Logic).
- A minimum of 15 credit hours at the 300 level or above.
- A minimum grade of "C" (2.0) in each philosophy course.
Double Majors
Students planning to major in a discipline other than philosophy are encouraged to consider philosophy as a second major. Students planning such a double major should consult the Department of Philosophy about philosophy courses most suitable to their academic interests and career goals.