Philosophy

Philosophy Programs

The ONU Department of Philosophy and Religion offers several programs: a major in philosophy, an interdisciplinary philosophy and religion major, and a minor in philosophy.

Philosophy Major:
The major in philosophy requires a minimum of 44 hours beyond Phil 100, including the following courses: 234; two of the following (237, 238, 340); the two courses in the history of philosophy sequence (102, 202); and either 480 or 483. With departmental approval, a maximum of three courses in religion may be applied to the philosophy major.

In addition to major requirements, the student must complete the general education courses (60 to 65 hours) required of all Arts and Sciences students graduating with the Bachelor of Arts degree. This leaves the student with 60 to 70 free elective hours which the student may use according to his or her particular interests and career goals. Students should select elective courses with the same care used in choosing a major. The department recommends that students consider a couple of options in selecting elective courses: (a) a second major, for example, history or literature along with the philosophy major; or (b) a minor in another subject. However one chooses to use the elective hours, it is important to remember that careful planning will enrich one's program of studies while at ONU and increase the options available upon graduation.

Philosophy Major With Prelaw Emphasis:
The major in philosophy with a prelaw emphasis includes all of the requirements for the philosophy major with the following core courses for prelaw students: Phil 234 , Phil 238 , and Phil 320 or Phil 351. more information

Interdisciplinary Philosophy and Religion Major:
For many years the department has offered a combined philosophy and religion major. This major consists of 44 hours chosen from philosophy and religion courses with the approval of the student's advisor. This major provides a greater choice of courses and thus more flexibility in one's schedule than the philosophy major. Student interest and career objectives are reasons for some students' choice of this option. Selection of courses is subject to approval by the department and must include 480 or 481 or else 483 or 484.

Philosophy Minor:
For students who have other majors or specific career objectives requiring a non-philosophy major but who also have an interest in the study of philosophy, the philosophy minor is a means of meeting that interest. The minor in philosophy requires a minimum of 28 hours in philosophy, including 234 and two of the following (102, 202, 237, 340).

Philosophy Minor With Prelaw Emphasis:
A minor in philosophy with a prelaw emphasis includes all of the requirements for the philosophy minor with the following core courses for prelaw students: Phil 234, Phil 238, and Phil 320 or Phil 351.

The discussion of the academic study of philosophy (What Is Philosophy?) focused on its nature and value as an undergraduate major or minor. Most students, however, have interests and goals that lead them to choose majors and minors in other subjects. For those students good reasons exist for their taking some elective courses in philosophy. Students planning to pursue professional careers can broaden their understanding of western culture and the formative factors of thought that shape our modern world. Moreover, there are philosophy courses which are relevant theoretically or practically to professions such as business, law, and medicine. For these and other professions here are some valuable courses beyond general introductions.

Journalism and Communication. Introductory to intermediate courses in logic and ethics are highly relevant. Philosophy of language should enhance understanding of communication, and philosophy of science should cast light on some of the technical subjects with which many people in journalism and communication must deal. Beyond this, political and social philosophy can deepen one's understanding of society and social institutions. Other courses, such as aesthetics, philosophy of law, and philosophy of religion, are highly desirable for those with related special interests.

Pre-medicine and Other Health Professions. Extra work in the general area of ethics should be useful. Philosophy of mind, with its emphasis on understanding the human person, is valuable. Philosophy of science may yield a better understanding of-and even a greater capacity for-the integration of medical research with medical practice. Philosophy of religion can lead to a better understanding of many patients and numerous others with whom physicians work closely. Aesthetics and the history of philosophy may enhance the common ground practitioners can find with patients or colleagues who are from other cultures or have unusual orientations or views. Philosophy of medicine and medical ethics are obviously of direct relevance.

Pre-business. Courses in the general area of political or social philosophy are valuable background for executives and managers, particularly in understanding social institutions such as corporations, unions, and political parties. Classes in logic and decision theory may contribute greatly to the capacity to analyze data and select plans of action. Both ethics (particularly business ethics) and philosophy of mind may benefit business people in conducting many of their day-to-day activities.

Pre-engineering. Logic and philosophy of science are highly relevant to engineering. Ethics, including political or social philosophy, is also valuable for careers in this field. Epistemology should interest engineering students who want to enhance their understanding of human knowledge in general and of the growth of scientific knowledge in particular.

Pre-seminary. Philosophy of religion has the most obvious relevance for pre-seminary students, but they should also find a number of other courses, including ethics, philosophy of mind, and history of philosophy, of special value. Historically, philosophy has influenced religion, just as religion has influenced philosophy. Philosophy of art, philosophy of literature, and philosophy of history can also play a unique role in creating the breadth of perspective needed for the clergy.