Philosophy is the rational investigation of those truths about reality, knowledge and values essential to understanding the place of human beings in the world and the nature of the good life. It includes within its scope both the study of logic and scientific method, including the metaphysical presuppositions of the sciences, and the investigation of ethical and political values.

The study of philosophy develops our ability to make sense of ourselves and our surroundings. Philosophers apply critical thinking to questions of values and beliefs in order to understand reality, clarify the nature of interactions between individuals and society, and come to terms with the problems of existence and ultimate values. Different schools of thought in economics, history, psychology, and education are based upon differences in philosophy. Political and religious beliefs and codes of ethic are based on philosophical assumptions. Students who study philosophy examine beliefs, resolve conflicts, search for a life purpose, and develop a basis for ethical decisions.

What skills will I develop?

Thorough understanding of philosophy, great thinkers, human values, scientific thought, epistemological topics, reason and reality, philosophy of religion, ethics, contemporary moral problems, political philosophy, the history of philosophy, set theory and logic, theories of international relations, philosophical analysis, modern political philosophy, contemporary political thought, philosophy of science, metaphysics, and value theory.