Another task of philosophy is to question such beliefs, and this can only be done by subjecting them to every objection one can think of or find in the writing of others. The result of this process may be to strengthen our beliefs or perhaps to abandon them, but in either case, they will come to reflect ways of viewing ourselves and the world that are more truly our own. Philosophy is the exploration of answers to these important questions. By reading what philosophers through the ages have said in response to such fundamental philosophical problems, and by engaging in the activity of philosophizing, we will learn to think more clearly about a wide range of issues. And by analyzing arguments for and against different views we learn skills which can be used in other areas of life.
Philosophy develops analytic reasoning skills.
To be able to write and communicate with a clarity of thought is a great asset in careers as different as law, computer programming, and journalism, as well as in numerous other areas of employment. Return to the UM-Flint Philosophy Department Home Page Copyright 1998 by the Regents of the University of Michigan.