Philosophy

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Interim Chairperson: Dr. Debra Israel
Department Office: Holmstedt Hall, room 291
Web site: http://www.indstate.edu/philosophy/
E-mail: philosophy@indstate.edu

The study of philosophy provides students with an awareness of critical thinking, an appreciation of ethical reasoning, and the power of logical analysis. These abilities are valuable in every academic endeavor. With appropriate work in related fields, the study of philosophy prepares students for continuing education in law, theology, the humanities, journalism, research, management, and a variety of graduate programs.

Philosophy is best described as the combination of the following disciplines: logic, the study of correct or valid reasoning; ethics, the study of morality and value; aesthetics, the study of the nature of beauty and art; epistemology, the study of knowledge; and metaphysics, the study of the most general categories and principles by which humankind understands the universe. The close associations among these disciplines are made apparent upon in-depth investigation of a wide variety of philosophical issues.

With its emphasis upon clarity and logical rigor on the one hand, and upon breadth and generality on the other, philosophy not only cultivates a critical and analytical perspective, but also provides for a comprehensive world view. In this way, a study of philosophy enables people to deal more thoroughly with the complex problems facing civilization.

In support of the liberal arts and sciences mission of the college and the University, the Department of Philosophy participates in the Foundational Studies Program, the University Honors Program, the Genomic Advocacy Center, The Center for Health, Religion, and Spirituality, and the Women’s Studies Program.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

Degrees Offered

The Department of Philosophy offers a curriculum leading to a bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degree. Candidates for the degree must successfully complete the University requirement of a minimum of 120 credits, including Foundational Studies course work, two years or the equivalent, of a non-native language (if the student chooses to pursue the bachelor of arts degree), and the requirements for the major. A minor is not required for this degree.

Culminating Experiential Learning Requirement

To fulfill the University’s goal of a culminating experiential learning opportunity in all major curricula, all philosophy majors will take either Philosophy 333 or 401 in their senior year. These courses will be offered on a rotating basis, and will require students to apply ethical theory to current issues in the community.

Departmental Opportunities

The Department of Philosophy sponsors a very active student organization, The Great Ideas Philosophy Club.

Majors and minors in the Department of Philosophy are encouraged to maintain good contact with their advisors, and are expected to work with their advisors prior to registration each semester. Students who do so are more likely to meet their goals and achieve academic success. Students can find their assigned advisors by consulting the college, the department, or their Degree Audit Tools.

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