The mission statement of Baldwin-Wallace College states that B-W aims at students' intellectual and spiritual growth, and that B-W graduates should be compassionate, contributing global citizens. The Philosophy program at B-W contributes to this goal by fostering critical thinking, intellectual inquisitiveness, sensitivity to ethical complexity, and independent reflection- all of which are necessary to become an engaged citizen and required in virtually any career.
Philosophy literally means "love of wisdom," so concerns of philosophy are broad and interdisciplinary. They range from seeking to understand the methods and foundations of politics, the arts, science, and education, to searching for answers to questions about the meaning of reality, truth, moral values, aesthetic experience, and the human self. Philosophy is therefore a good choice for a second major or minor to compliment a variety of different majors. In addition, as a Core course, philosophy can teach analytic and problem-solving skills that help students to succeed in college and in continuing adult life.
Philosophy is a worthwhile activity simply for the personal enlightenment that it can provide. But the Philosophy program also strives to impart the general skills that are crucial for most professions. Philosophy students learn how to read and understand abstract thinking and sophisticated reasoning. They also learn to think critically, developing their own views and expressing their opinions persuasively in speech and writing. These skills are sought by employers in almost any profession.
Philosophy courses do not need to be taken in a rigid sequence. Any philosophy course should improve philosophical abilities. However, the courses are classified by the difficulty of the reading involved and the amount of philosophical training and background required.
Philosophy courses at Level 1 and Level 2 may be used to meet part of the college's Core requirements in Humanities: Cultural Heritage.
The philosophy major consists of a minimum of 23 credit hours, at least two of which must be at Level 3. No more than two courses at Level 1 may count toward the major. Students majoring in philosophy will design a program of courses with the assistance of a philosophy faculty advisor based on the student's interests, academic needs, and future plans. A second major is recommended to compliment the philosophy major. Also, it is recommended that students design an Independent Study and/or a Departmental Thesis to pursue areas of individual interest and to synthesize their philosophical thinking with their second major area of study. Students majoring in philosophy who intend to pursue graduate study in philosophy are advised to take German and/or French through the level of 102. |
Philosophy Minor
A minor in philosophy requires a minimum of 17 credit hours, with no more than two courses at Level 1. The minor program is designed by the student with his or her faculty advisor to meet the student's academic objectives.
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