Philosophy

Philosophy uses reason to reflect upon the most basic and profound questions that human beings can ask.

Does life have a meaning? Is there a God? What is truth? How ought one to live one's life?

Philosophy calls on the power of reason to investigate the world and ourselves, but it is far more than an intellectual exercise. As a philosophy student, you’ll learn to think and write critically about society’s very foundations — from the conceptual building blocks of the arts and sciences to the ideas that underlie modern social and political institutions.

Not only will you become a sharp thinker and persuasive writer, the study of philosophy is excellent preparation for graduate and professional school. In fact, philosophy students are more successful in being admitted to law and medical schools than students from almost any other field.

What Will I Learn?

  • Develop the ability to think critically and clearly, and to demonstrate this ability through the analysis and writing of well-reasoned argumentative essays.
  • Become familiar with some of the major figures, ideas, and arguments in the Western philosophical tradition.
  • Engage in formulating your own ideas and developing the skills necessary to articulate these ideas.
  • Develop the ability to consider opposing views and to assess the logic inherent in these views.
  • See that philosophical theories underlie political systems, scientific theories, controversies in law, and indeed in theories about every aspect of reality.
  • Develop a sense of intellectual integrity and a commitment to truth, as distinct from what is merely fashionable, popular, or politically convenient.

Visit the University Catalog:

Learn about degree requirements and coursework for the Philosophy major and minor.

Learn which Dearborn Discovery Core requirements are fulfilled by taking Philosophy courses.

 

Making the Most of Your Major

There are opportunities to develop skills and connect with others interested in philosophy beyond the classroom. Check out the Philosophy Major Map to get a more detailed, year-by-year view of how you can learn, engage, network and transform your community and prepare for life after graduation.

Get Involved

Join the Philosophy Club (a student run organization that sponsors talks and discussions on a variety of philosophical issues), the Pre-Law Association, or any of a number of student organizations on campus.  Explore all UM-Dearborn student organizations on VictorsLink.

Get Real World Experience

Internshipsresearch, and study abroad opportunities are available for philosophy students. Attend the American Philosophical Association’s Midwest Meetings. Talk with your professors to learn more.

Plan for Life After Graduation

Philosophy prepares students with the skills necessary in the modern workplace. Work a Humanities/History internship into your schedule to gain professional experience. Career Services offers assistance with job searching, resumes, interviews or graduate school applications.

General Program Information

Philosophy Faculty

Imran Aijaz

Associate Professor of Philosophy

Joseph Kirkland

Leo Lecturer III in Philosophy

Daniel Little

Professor of Philosophy

Kriszta Sajber

Assistant Professor of Philosophy

Velimir Stojkovski

Assistant Professor of Philosophy

Daniel Yeakel

LEO Lecturer III in Philosophy