Philosophy
What do we believe? Why do we believe it?
Who are we? Why are we here?
What ought we do? Why should we do it?
Philosophy encourages critical and systematic inquiry into fundamental questions of right and wrong, truth and falsehood, the meaning of life, and the nature of reality, knowledge and society.
Philosophy encourages the student to formulate questions and follow arguments. Philosophy provides an excellent preparation for law school and other professional programs, as well as a solid foundation for a career in business, teaching, writing, or public service.
As a philosophy major, you will ...
- generate ideas on a variety of problems
- formulate and solve problems
- uncover assumptions and suggest alternatives
- distinguish subtle differences without overlooking similarities
- analyze, develop and formulate logical arguments
- make knowledgeable decisions
- examine various angles of topics
- write and speak clearly and effectively
- interpret and assess various thoughts and theories
Why major in philosophy?
Learn how to think, not what to think. More than any other discipline, philosophy explores the core issues of the Western intellectual tradition. Philosophy is the ultimate transferable work skill.
Department Chairperson
Steven Hales | 570-389-4229
Department Secretary
Lori Clemens | 570-389-4246
Office: 570-389-4246
Fax: 570-389-2095
Philosophy in Medical School?
Yes, you bet!
"As part of our second-year curriculum, we're required to take an Ethics course. This is because Ethics has landed itself its own section on our looming board examinations in the spring, but also because (at least I would presume) so we don't all go out and act like lunatics with scalpels and prescription pads after graduating."
"On the first day of said class last week, my professor surveyed the class on who had studied philosophy. I raised my hand, and he spent the rest of the two-hour lecture grilling me, making me explain the basics of consequentialism, deontology, and virtue ethics to my entire 270-student class. I'll also tell you I rocked it, due in large part to your efforts back in Bakeless Hall. I guess in all of this I just wanted to say THANK YOU for teaching me about philosophy, but also for teaching me how to think. My philosophy degree has gone above and beyond to serve me well thus far, and I know it will continue to be a foundation I use throughout my career."
- — Michaela Wagner '18, medical student at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine