About Philosophy

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"The unexamined life," Socrates said, "is not worth living."

The study of philosophy brings many benefits. It stimulates self-examination, provides insights into various cultures—including your own—explores the inter-connectedness of different kinds of knowledge and encourages clear thinking. It does not normally lead to any career in particular. It prepares you to be a responsible, thoughtful person in many areas of life.

Through our traditional major and minor, students are introduced to classical philosophical issues while fostering critical skills. A second major—in applied philosophy—offers a solid grounding in philosophy together with a concentration in another discipline, allowing students to use their philosophical training to develop a deeper appreciation of the foundations, controversies, and larger significance of an area of interest outside philosophy.