Philosophy

"Education does not take root in the soul unless one goes deep." Protagoras c.450 BC

The heart of philosophy does not consist in filling the "container mind" with facts, but in shaping the "active mind" so that it ranges widely, penetrates deeply and judges critically. These habits of mind obviously have currency in many career fields and leadership positions. They also foster enlightened citizenship, immunize against hype, and, generally, lengthen the list of things a person can understand and enjoy in living his or her life, whatever specific career path taken.

Philosophy at Eastern

The philosophy program at Eastern offers a set of introductory courses that figure prominently in general education requirements, under-gird the more advanced courses, and address some of the haunting why questions we carry with us from childhood, when we were all philosophizing. Suited to beginners, these courses are ideal for students who are still curious, still exploring, still wondering.

Philosophy at Eastern as everywhere grows out of a sense of questioning wonder and continually asks:

• What do you mean?
• How do you know that?
• Why do you so believe?

You are welcome to join our quest.

The philosophy program offers general interest courses that deal with our philosophical heritage and contemporary thought, and a minor in philosophy that encompasses some principal concerns of the discipline. It also offers a BA in Philosophy and BA in Interdisciplinary Studies (ITDS), with an option in Philosophical Studies that combines intermediate and advanced classes in logic and the history of philosophy, with selected offerings from cooperating programs.

Philosophy majors may be found in a wide variety of careers. Philosophy majors often seek advanced degrees, and go on to careers in law, medicine, and higher education.