Philosophy BA

Philosophy asks the big questions: what is real? What is justice? What is beauty? How does language work? What is it to be you instead of someone else? How can we come to know? The Department of Philosophy provides opportunities to study ethics, aesthetics, political philosophy, philosophy of mind, metaphysics, epistemology, philosophy of law, philosophy of science, and a bevy of other subjects. Regardless of the subject, philosophy interrogates our foundational assumptions, engages with our reasons, and demands that we develop stronger arguments. Philosophy sharpens one’s skills as a reader and helps you become a clearer and more careful writer and speaker.

The student of philosophy learns the fundamental theories, concepts and methods of inquiry that have framed our intellectual heritage. Most importantly, philosophers develop tools to critically investigate the values, beliefs, and institutions that shape our lives today. Philosophy inspires students to ask big questions, and provides uniquely good analytic training to help address any question, big or small. Philosophy provides excellent training for a variety of careers, and enhances one’s capacities as a citizen.