UTPA: Why Philosophy?

"There will be no end to the troubles of states, or of humanity itself, till philosophers become kings in this world, or till those we now call kings and rulers really and truly become philosophers, and political power and philosophy thus come into the same hands."

Plato

"While the parents and kids took a dim view of liberal arts, business leaders called the humanities essential to developing critical thinking (90%) and problem-solving (77%)."

Fortune, May 1997

Philosophy at UTPA

Philosophy is a basic field of inquiry, a diverse and continually changing discipline to which people with greatly different interests are drawn. Its range covers ideas and issues of an unlimited variety.

The University of Texas-Pan American offers a major and minor in philosophy that provide students the opportunity to develop not only philosophical skills and sophistication but also a variety of intellectual abilities that are readily applicable to pursuits far removed from philosophy, and valuable in everyday social and personal life. The study of philosophy can profoundly affect both the thinking one does and the kind of person one is.

Philosophical training applies, in a practical way, to any major or subject, enhancing general problem solving, communication skills, persuasive powers and writing skills. Philosophy has direct application to the arts, business, computer science, engineering, government service, health professions, journalism, communication, law, the ministry, sociology, teaching (pre-college and college) and technical writing.

Philosophy majors and minors have the opportunity to achieve an articulate understanding of great philosophers, major philosophical problems, and diverse, open methods of philosophical inquiry.

Perhaps the most important outcome of philosophical study is not teachable in any prescribed way and must be cultivated by way of example. It is the association with other thoughtful and motivated students and faculty, in class, in the Philosophy Club, and in informal social situations.

Links

Philosophy prepares students for a career in Law
Philosophy Rocks the Graduate Record Exam!
The Philosophy Major - What to expect

These pages are maintained by Dr. Scott R. Stroud