What's the meaning of life? How do we know we actually exist? As a philosophy
student, you'll ponder these and other cosmic mysteries.
"Philosophy makes of you a writer and a good critical thinker with analytical
skills," says Lawrence Udell Fike, Jr. He is chair of the philosophy department
at Yakima Valley Community College in Yakima, Washington. "It puts a healthy
pressure on students to develop their abilities as listeners, readers, writers
and speakers."
Philosophy programs vary, so check course offerings carefully. Some
programs deal with the history of philosophy and classical studies, while
others lean heavily toward ethics or other aspects of the discipline.
High school preparation for philosophy should include foreign languages,
mathematics, science, literature, writing and history. Extracurricular
activities should include student government, newspaper work, debate or athletics.
John Justice, a philosophy professor at Randolph-Macon Woman's College
in Virginia, says reading is the most valuable activity.
"Socrates liked to hang out in the agora, the ancient equivalent of our
malls," says Fike. "Kant stayed at home and read. Plato, Aristotle and Sartre
wrote plays. Tracking social changes, doing volunteer work, working in a hospital
can be valuable."
He also recommends vigorous exercise. "I run several miles a day and as
a student I did it with a note sheet in my pocket. I'd run through arguments
mentally, and when I got stuck, I'd pull out the sheet to get back on track.
This can be a great way to do philosophy and get fit, too!"
Aside from tuition and books, philosophy majors can expect few other
expenses. "The American Philosophical Association encourages student participation
at its conferences. I take students on hiking and camping trips. Your coffee
bill might get pretty steep. I've heard Voltaire drank 20 cups a day," says
Fike.
Links
Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Teachers
-- Post-Secondary
Philosophy -- A Brief Guide for Undergraduates
Published by the American Philosophical Association
Philosophy Departments
List of departments throughout the United States