Discussions address such issues as the dilemma of freedom and determinism, personal identity, belief in God, the justification of reverse discrimination, corporate responsibility, liberty and the limits of the law, and pragmatism. Majors take Logic, Ethics, and Modern Philosophy, as well as more specialized courses such as Philosophical Analysis and Philosophy of Law. A number of courses explore areas relevant to the professions such as Philosophy of Science, Business Ethics, and Social Philosophy. A new course that has drawn a lot of interest is Feminist Philosophy. The department offers a major and a minor.
Some students combine the philosophy major with a major in another discipline.
Each student is advised by a faculty member in the department regarding educational and vocational objectives. All students are strongly encouraged to take courses in several related departments to obtain a broad background in the humanities, the social sciences, or both. Going Deeper Special topics courses give you the chance to examine specific areas more intensely. The intimate nature of the classes promotes engaging discussions and scholarly debates over issues. You may study a specific philosophical problem or a particular philosopher through individualized tutorials directed by a professor in the department.