Bachelor of Arts [B.A] [Philosophy] From Gettysburg College

At Gettysburg College, we see philosophy as a part of the well-lived life and as a bridge to all intellectual pursuits.? Philosophy is not about memorizing the views of past thinkers; it involves learning to think critically about life?s deepest questions, developing the skills of rational argument and graceful expression, and confronting the world?s challenges in ways that lead to insight, wisdom, and engagement.?

Our classes include a wide range of topics and approaches, and we connect with other disciplines in courses like Philosophy of Art, Ethics & Economic Life, Social & Political Philosophy, the Philosophy of Mind, Philosophy of Film, and the Philosophy of Science. Our work is usually interdisciplinary; this leads to team teaching with faculty from other departments and offering First-Year Seminars with philosophical themes.?

Learning Outcomes for the Major in Philosophy

(1)? KNOWLEDGE

All students completing the major in Philosophy should acquire knowledge which they can demonstrate in recognition, creative application, and effective use.? Specifically, they should understand:

a)? The main outlines of contemporary philosophical terrain, including the traditional sub-disciplines or branches of philosophy (e.g., epistemology or ethics) and their purview, i.e., the profound questions which each explores and attempts to answer;

b)? A large set of key philosophical concepts and terms drawn from philosophical methods, arguments, or theories (e.g., premise, or naturalistic fallacy or dualism)?the particular lexicon to reflect a student?s emphasis within the field;

c)? The history of philosophy (at least in useful outline) as global, multi-traditional, and inter-relational?including the nature of the philosophical enterprise as essentially contested;