Philosophy

Western State Colorado University Philosophy minor provides students with an understanding of the history of philosophy, an exploration of diverse worldviews, and the tools to examine the complex, unexamined assumptions underlying contemporary society.  The Philosophy minor emphasizes development of logical and analytical skills, affording students the intellectual ability to theorize, articulate, and support sophisticated philosophical perspectives.

Why study philosophy at Western?

A minor in philosophy is both a practical endeavor and a life-enriching experience.  For many, the liberal arts university experience will, unfortunately, be the only place where thinking for the sake of thinking is supported and encouraged.  But with a philosophy minor, graduates will be more likely to keep thinking once they leave academia, and bring their ideas to fruition in whatever field they choose.  Not only will they understand why education matters, but they themselves will matter in the world. 

The philosophy minor at Western State Colorado University was specifically designed to complement any major that Western State Colorado University offers. Given that philosophy as a discipline allows individuals to see the world from varied perspectives and helps to provide rational approaches to evaluate ideas, a minor in philosophy deepens the value of a liberal arts education itself by providing the tools needed to understand and appreciate the relationship among the fields of study available at Western State Colorado University. 

For those considering graduate school, a minor in philosophy helps sharpen verbal and analytical skills needed for the GREs, LSATs, and GMATs.  Most importantly, however, philosophy provides exposure to the theoretical discourse in which graduate work engages.

Outside of academia, a philosophy minor helps develop real-world, professional skills.  A background in philosophy enhances communication, argument, and critical thinking skills.  Those with experience in philosophy are better able to understand and classify the content of information presented to them, and are not easily swayed by opinions disguised as facts.  Philosophy also helps individuals to understand key issues in decision-making and problem-solving situations.  It enhances research, investigation, design, and planning skills.  Being well-versed in philosophy enhances the ability to see situations from multiple perspectives, and better define the parameters of the task at hand. 

All of these skills are “transferable,” meaning that they are not career-specific.  Current trends indicate that over a current University graduate’s lifetime, he or she will hold several jobs in several different fields.  Thus, having skills that can move with an individual through any career shifts becomes vital to “real world” success.  Reasoning, researching, planning, and communication are essential to problem solving and clearly presenting ideas.  Whether planning to go into a traditional or non traditional career, a background in philosophy will enhance the knowledge gained in an individual’s specific field of study, and allow the broadest range possible in terms of later career opportunities.