2008-2009 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 28, 2024  
2008-2009 Undergraduate Catalog [Archived]

Philosophy


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Interim Chairperson: Dr. Rocco J. Gennaro
Department Office: Root Hall, room A-138
Web site: http://www.indstate.edu/phil/
E-mail: philosophy@indstate.edu

A study of philosophy provides students with an awareness of basic assumptions, 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, humanities, journalism, research, management, and a variety of graduate programs.

Philosophy is best described as the complex 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 in terms of 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 General Education Program, the University Honors Program, 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 124 hours of credit, including General Education course work, two years or the equivalent of a foreign 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.


Departmental Opportunities

The department sponsors a very active student organization, The Great Ideas Philosophy Club. The department also has a Spring Lecture Series featuring presentations by faculty from around the country on a wide range of controversial topics.

The college, in consultation with the departments, assigns each student a faculty academic advisor. Majors and minors in the Department of Philosophy are encouraged to maintain good contact with their advisor, and are expected to work with their advisor 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 advisor by consulting the college, the department, or their DARS.

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