Philosophy and Religion (PHIL/RELG)

Faculty

Butman Professor B. Taylor 

Professor Lytle

Philosophy (PHIL)

Philosophy in the ancient tradition is the love of wisdom. The academic discipline of philosophy embodies such a passion for understanding by exploring the most profound questions regarding these three central issues: metaphysics or reality theory; epistemology or knowledge theory; and axiology or value theory. Philosophy introduces students to the classical world philosophies undergirding many of the basic assumptions of contemporary world culture. In particular, the study of philosophy helps students to develop careful analytic, synthetic, and critical thinking skills.

Religion (RELG)

The study of religion is the study of sacred beliefs about life’s purpose and meaning. This study involves an academic inquiry into the major religions of the world, especially the Bible and the Judeo-Christian religious traditions. Religion courses help many students come to grips with the difference between religious traditions and personal religious heritage. Often this contrast promotes a personal journey and a clearer, deeper understanding of religious values and their import for contemporary life. Study of religion can also aid in developing an understanding of faith capable of supporting all areas of academic preparation and ethical professional practice. It provides knowledge helpful in understanding and respecting the diversity of religious commitments found anywhere in the modern world. Studies in world religions further prepare students to work appropriately and respectfully in the emerging “global village.”

Students interested in pursuing graduate work in theology or entering the ministry are encouraged to design a broad-based academic program of study with the help of a full-time faculty member in that field. No specific major or minor requirements exist for entry into a graduate theology program or seminary but some academic areas and courses will better complement such studies.

Career Options

The value of philosophical and religious studies in preparation for a life well lived can hardly be overstated. In particular, study of philosophy and religion is especially valuable in at least these three ways:

1. As a general liberal arts program, philosophy and religion prepares the student to live a well-examined life, to develop skills for theoretical and practical thinking that are valuable in any career path whatsoever. As such, philosophy and religion as a major or as a selection of classes can enhance one’s ability to take one’s place in society as a well-educated citizen. Further, study in philosophy and religion prepares one for any career where a traditional liberal arts degree is valued.
2. Philosophy and religion also provides an excellent preparation for post-graduate professional study, especially in the areas of law and divinity. The thinking and argumentation skills developed are especially useful to those entering law school. The critical examination of core religious systems of thought is especially valuable for those entering seminary or divinity school.
3. Philosophy and religion is also an excellent preparation for post-graduate academic work in a variety of fields. Obviously, for those wishing to pursue study of philosophy or religion at the master’s or doctoral level, the philosophy and religion major is especially appropriate. Furthermore, those considering further education in a variety of other fields, especially in the humanities or liberal arts fields, will find the philosophy and religion major to be an excellent preparation for academic graduate work in those areas as well.

Philosophy Career Options

In addition to enhancing studies in history, civilization, government, language, and literature, professionals in teaching, research, business, communications, technical support, government, education, and law benefit from philosophical studies by increasing their understanding of the diverse ways in which people determine meaning in, and apply value to, areas of business and social life.

Religion Career Options

Respectful knowledge of the varieties of religious expression can help students secure employment in technical and communication fields where the demand for culturally sensitive employees is rapidly growing. Religion students are successfully hired in sales, technical support, communication, research, business management, education, and teaching fields.

Course Descriptions