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

Philosophers inquire into structures that form the basis of all that exists, the ways we can justify our claims to knowledge, and the values and goals that guide individuals and society.

Allegheny's Philosophy program pays particular attention to the question of the values and goals that ought to guide individuals and society by exploring lived experience and analyzing the social world. More specifically, courses examine the relationship between society and science through a study of the values that have challenged and have fostered scientific activities and technological developments. Courses also examine ethics as a personal ideal as well as democracy and economic development as global and multicultural ideals.

Students who successfully complete a major in Philosophy should be able to:

• Read and comprehend arguments in their primary sources (in translation, as necessary);
• Demonstrate an understanding of the methodologies employed in philosophical inquiry, as well as the cultural and historical origins of those methods;
• Engage in a critical analysis of the legitimacy and limitations of the knowledge these methodologies elicit;
• Appreciate the role of cultural and historical context in the development of philosophy, and appreciate the ethical issues created by the culture and the dominant philosophies of the modern and contemporary West;
• Articulate their own thoughts and ideas relevant to philosophical inquiry orally and write essays that are clear and well structured, exhibiting command of the preceding abilities.