纽泽西学院

Philosophy is the systematic examination of some of the most fundamental questions that human beings ask. Philosophy explores such matters as the nature of reality, the nature and source of knowledge, the nature and basis of ethics, and the relationship between mind and body. The study of philosophy can make a valuable contribution to one’s personal development and is the keystone of a liberal education.

The philosophy major combines a thorough study of philosophies that have shaped Western civilization with rigorous training in the analysis of argument. Philosophy majors learn how to analyze and critique arguments, argue effectively for philosophical opinions, make reasoned decisions about ethical issues, actively engage in the debates that have shaped the history of Western thought, and develop reasoned philosophical views of their own on a range of central philosophical issues.

The design of the philosophy major itself, as well as each course taught, strives to imbue students with ways of identifying, thinking about and analyzing problems and constructing and assessing theories and counterexamples that represent the best philosophy has to offer. Both lower and upper level courses in philosophy expressly ask students to demonstrate the ability to identify philosophical issues as problems or puzzles with respect to which there exist opposing solutions each of which requires investigation, understanding and assessment. They also emphasize the importance of the student’s engaging deeply with the assigned and recommended materials for the course in addition to demonstrating mastery of those materials. Finally, they emphasize mastery of the process by which good philosophical research is produced and communicated.

Philosophy majors and minors may elect to pursue either the general course of study in philosophy or a major or minor specialization either in the area of Law and Philosophy or in the area of Ethics. The general course of study in philosophy is designed for students who have broad interests in philosophy or who wish to prepare for graduate school in philosophy. The specialization in Law and Philosophy is designed for students with an interest in law or in legal and political theory. The specialization in Ethics is designed for students with interests in theoretical or applied ethics, medicine, nursing, and other professions.

The study of philosophy provides a powerful perspective on other academic subjects ranging from literature and art to biology and mathematics as well as an exceptionally strong background for such diverse professions as law, teaching, journalism, medicine, ministry, and business. A major or minor in philosophy can thus be profitably combined with a variety of other majors.

Philosophy Major Specializations: Law and Philosophy; Ethics Like the traditional major, the specializations in Law and Philosophy and in Ethics require students to complete 10 course units in philosophy.