詹姆斯麦迪逊大学

The philosophy concentration focuses on major figures such as Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Locke, Berkeley, Hume and Kant. Students will study problems arising in contemporary movements such as analytic philosophy, existentialism and American philosophy; students will be introduced to the major subdivisions of philosophy, including logic, ethics, aesthetics, philosophy and law, philosophy of science and philosophy of religion.

The religion concentration focuses on the major religious traditions of the world: Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam; their expression in cultural and social practices; and particular cultural and religious traditions. Topic areas in the study of religion include eastern religions, western religions, Biblical studies, ethics, religion and society, and religious thought and theology. Connections are made between religion and other areas of knowledge, such as literature, politics, history, and the arts. Students will assess the role religion plays in contemporary social and political contexts, American and global.

The interdisciplinary philosophy concentration is designed for students who want to concentrate in philosophy but also apply philosophical ideas to work in other departments.

The interdisciplinary religion concentration is designed for students who want to concentrate in religion but also integrate their work in religion with work in another, complementary disciplinary area.

Both philosophy and the academic study of religion prepare students to meet a rapidly changing world. Students completing a philosophy and religion major will be able to think critically, rigorously analyze arguments, listen carefully to the viewpoints of others, construct views that are based on sound reasoning and evidence, and communicate clearly and persuasively in writing and in speaking. They will grapple with the insights of some of the greatest figures in history as they learn to contextualize texts, issues and phenomena to arrive at well-informed and enlightened interpretations.

Concentrations

• Philosophy
• Religion
• Interdisciplinary Philosophy
• Interdisciplinary Religion