Career Profiles: Philosophy

CSULB Department of Philosophy

Philosophy is the study of the fundamental questions about the nature of being, knowledge, right and wrong, and our place in the physical world. Students explore ways philosophy affects other fields of inquiry, such as physics, religion, and computer science. Philosophy challenges students to think rigorously about some of the most profound questions people consider: “What can I know?” “Do human beings have free will?” What are the guidelines for morality?” The study of philosophy teaches students to reason logically and to think analytically and critically; to fine tune skills in argumentation; and to use spoken and written language with clarity and precision. Students are taught to probe deeply into their fundamental knowledge claims, beliefs, and values. Another major emphasis in philosophical study is the teaching of major ideas that have helped shaped civilization. Students are prepared to enter a broad range of career options, to enter professional school, or a graduate program.