Major: Philosophy
Philosophy dates back to ancient times when Confucius and Plato walked the earth. Yet it is very much alive today in such questions as whether or not computers think. Philosophers question issues that others either take for granted or find too difficult to ponder. If you choose this major, you'll find yourself asking everything from why we should be good to how we know what we know. You'll even question your own questions.
Some philosophy undergrads become philosophers. But most by far build careers in other areas, such as law. And thanks to all that pondering, all develop great skills in logic, problem solving, and creative thinking that pay off in any field.
Philosophy majors examine basic questions about such topics as the nature of existence and knowledge. They also study the history of philosophy, learn how to use logic and argue their ideas, and use philosophy to better understand other fields.
“More than anything, [philosophy] teaches you how to think. No matter what, that is the crucial skill for life.”
Parichay, senior, philosophy and English, Cornell University
Are You Ready To...?
- Tackle challenging books
- Master logic
- Write clearly about complex abstract ideas
- Join study groups
- Learn a second language
- Contribute to class discussions
It Helps to Be...
Willing to discuss and debate. You'll also need patience, organizational skills, and attention to detail as you study logical arguments and build your own. This is a good major for people who love to read and write.
College Checklist
- Is the program strongest in a particular area, such as the philosophy of science?
- What percentage of the courses are taught by professors (and not grad students)?
- Will you be able to take small classes where discussion is encouraged?
- Will you get the chance to work one-on-one with a professor or graduate student?
- Will you get the chance to write a senior thesis?
- Does the program have a philosophy club?
Did You Know?
- Bill Clinton, Angela Davis, and Pope John Paul II all majored in philosophy.
Course Spotlight
A senior thesis is your chance dig deep into a topic that interests you. If you're hooked on philosophy and plan to study it in grad school, you might write your paper on a central philosophical question, person, or text.
The thesis can also be your chance to prepare for another career. For example, if you're prelaw, you might use the methods and ideas of philosophy to explore the death penalty. If you're premed, you might look at the ethics of assisted suicide.
Explore this major in more depth on MyRoad™