Philosophy
What do we believe about truth, knowledge, reality, and moral goodness? For what reasons, if any, ought we to believe it? What is the nature of logic? To what extent can logic help us answer these questions? The philosophy major is for students who want to discuss these issues. They want to learn what some of the world’s greatest thinkers have to say, too.
Tracks
Major in Philosophy
Philosophy program students are trained in the techniques of logic and philosophical reasoning, criticism, and writing. They become fluent in a variety of important topics in philosophy. Most classes are taught as seminars or group tutorials to encourage discussion.
Minor in Philosophy
Minors in Philosophy undergo a program of core Philosophy courses, including choices of courses in Logic, Ethics and the History of Philosophy. The Minor in Philosophy requires only five courses plus the Senior Seminar, in which Minors help review the Majors’ Senior Theses.
Minor in Philosophy with a Concentration in Ethics
This minor focuses more on morality and ethics in specific life scenarios. Students learn contemporary moral issues and focus on social and business settings.
What You'll Learn
What Is Philosophy?
“Philosophy, rightly defined, is simply the love of wisdom.”
Marcus Tullius Cicero, ancient Roman scholar, orator, and statesmanWhy a Philosophy Major Makes Good Sense
“In an age of M.B.A.s and computer scientists, more than 4,000 American college students graduate each year with a bachelor’s degree in the ancient discipline. Sometimes their parents and friends wonder what will happen to them. Yet philosophy majors appear to do remarkably well. Their professional success may stem from the fact that philosophy students seem more likely than those with other degrees to attend graduate or professional school.”
The New York Times
