Philosophy Minor
Department of Philosophy and Religion
Divison of Humanities and Fine Arts
Philosophy—traditionally at the center of the liberal arts—asks some of the most difficult and searching questions about human existence, the nature of the universe, right and wrong in human conduct, and the basis of our social and political arrangements. In so doing, it gives the mind the greatest possible leeway to doubt, probe, and criticize. The courses of the Department of Philosophy and Religion have four main purposes: (1) to acquaint the student with some of the great philosophical questions of the past and present and with leading attempts to answer them; (2) to exhibit the connections between philosophy and such related areas as art, business, law, literature, medicine, science, religion, and the environment; (3) to develop the students’ capacities for clear thinking and critical analysis; and (4) to provide the basis for reflecting on right versus wrong and good versus evil in the present-day world. These aims are pursued in the atmosphere of diverse philosophical interests and approaches found among the staff of the department. Typically, students also bring varied concerns to their own explorations in philosophy and move on to careers in many diverse fields.