What is Philosophy?

Philosophy tries to answer very general questions, such as: What is truth? What is the nature and extent of human knowledge? Must we always have evidence in order to know? What is evidence? What is the nature of scientific knowledge? How can we know if others have minds like ours? What is the good life? What actions are right?

Philosophy, as an academic discipline, seeks to develop and articulate rational principles for the conduct and evaluation of intellectual inquiry - particularly directed to the most general and profound issues concerning people and their place in the universe. Each course in a modern philosophy department focuses on specific aspects of these general questions and emphasizes particular methods of rational inquiry. Some courses will be primarily concerned with the discussion of these issues and methods within contemporary philosophy, and others will be more concerned with the history of such discussion - a history that can be traced back to ancient civilizations. Yet a third group of courses will attempt to apply the methods of philosophy to issues and institutions of contemporary concern - e.g., issues in law, science, art and the professions.

Philosophy courses are excellent preparation for further study, but their primary value lies in their contribution to the student's intellectual growth as an informed and rational thinker.

Philosophy and Your Future

A major or minor in philosophy can contribute to your future in various ways. First, philosophy students typically perform better than average on standardized exams, for example the LSAT, GRE, or MCAT. Second, much of what is learned in philosophy can be applied in virtually any endeavor. This is both because philosophy touches on so many subjects, and because many of its methods are usable in any field. These methods used and skills developed include general problem solving, communication, persuasive powers, and writing skills. Not only are these methods and skills valuable for educational pursuits, but they have proved fruitful in non-academic careers as well. Third, and most importantly, studying philosophy provides the benefits of a traditional liberal arts education, which broadens the range of things one can understand and enjoy.

Students who have graduated with a B.A. in philosophy have gone on to pursue careers in a variety of fields, such as business, journalism, law, and higher education. Businesses, as well as professional schools, have come to recognize that a well-rounded liberal arts education can be a far better preparation for professional careers than a professional focus at the undergraduate level