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Philosophy

The School of Athens (1509–1511) by Raphael, depicting famous classical Greek philosophers in an idealized setting inspired by ancient Greek architecture

Branches of Philosophy

  • Aesthetics: Critical reflection on art, culture, and nature
  • Axiology: Study of the nature of value and valuation, and of the kinds of things that are valuable.
  • Ethics: Involves systematizing, defending, and recommending concepts of right and wrong behavior
  • Epistemology: Study of the nature, origin, and limits of human knowledge.
  • Metaphysics: Study of the most general features of reality.
  • Logic: Study of reasoning and argument. 
  • Mind & Language: Philosophy of language explores the nature, origins, and use of language. Philosophy of mind explores the nature of the mind and its relationship to the body.
  • Philosophy of science: explores the foundations, methods, history, implications, and purpose of science. 
  • Political philosophy: Study of government and the relationship of individuals (or families and clans) to communities including the state.
  • Philosophy of religion: Deals with questions that involve religion and religious ideas from a philosophically neutral perspective (as opposed to theology which begins from religious convictions).
  • Metaphilosophy: explores the aims, boundaries, and methods of philosophy. 

Philosophy

Statue of man with illustrated beard and question marks around him

Image retrieved from https://www.abc.net.au/everyday/how-philosophy-can-help-solve-lifes-big-problems/10888806. 

Students study philosophy by engaging in the pursuit of truth and understanding through rational reflection upon all facets of human experience and concern, including knowledge, reason, reality, faith, and the significance of fundamental moral, social, and aesthetic values. At Felician, students who study philosophy (whether in Humanities Studies or as Philosophy Minors) are: prepared practically and realistically to face the challenges of the 21st century and will be able to:

  • apply critical and analytical problem-solving skills, as these are exercised within the areas of their various philosophical interests;
  • employ written and oral communication while engaging in the interpretation of historically significant philosophical problems and perspectives
  • practice these skills and exercising their knowledge through their coursework, as well as through participation in the wider philosophical community through direct involvement in our annual ethics conference and regular department-sponsored colloquia.

Students who focus on philosophy are also prepared and encouraged to develop personal philosophical perspectives, which, along with the requisite communication and thinking skills, will prepare them for professional careers and the challenges of life. For instance, our unique Focus area within the Humanities Studies major develops the specialized skills and knowledge that prepare our graduates for success in graduate studies and various professional fields. Lastly, integral to the development of our students throughout their careers with us is their awareness of the importance of service, compassion, respect, and social responsibility generally, as personified in the Department’s active commitment to the College’s Catholic-Franciscan mission.