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Philosophy (PL)

Professors: J. A. Buckley, C. R. Bukala, S.J., H. J. Gensler, S.J., B. A. Wirkus, J. B. Miller (Acting Chair); Associate Professors: W. L. Langenfus, E. W. Spurgin, M. J. Ortega, S. M. Kaye; Assistant Professors: W. M. Bichl, S.J. (Assistant Dean), E. P. Thomson, P. J. Mooney, T. Nlandu, D. Taylor, J. R. Gunderson; Instructor: J. McWeeny

Philosophy helps us understand ideas that have profoundly influenced world civilizations, develop an outlook on life that is broad, coherent and reflective, and deal with ideas logically and critically. Every educated person needs at least a basic understanding of philosophy, since it serves as a framework for all knowledge. At Jesuit schools, philosophy has always had a special place; indeed, the Jesuit Order was founded by a group of philosophy students led by St. Ignatius of Loyola, who completed an M. A. in philosophy. A strong background in philosophy is a mark of those educated in Jesuit institutions.

The University Core requirement in philosophy consists of three courses taken in sequence: PL 101, an introduction to philosophy; a 200-level course on some period of the history of philosophy; and a 300-level course chosen from a variety of philosophical topics. Since philosophy is rarely taught in high school, PL 101 is needed to introduce the nature of philosophical thinking and the skills required for further in-depth studies. The history of philosophy courses explore specific historical periods, approaches, and movements. They focus on a related group of thinkers (such as existentialist, ancient Greek, or African) and their worldviews. They also emphasize how ideas develop over time, how historical context affects us, and how different thinkers interact. The 300-level courses investigate philosophical questions that emerge from other disciplines. They focus on questions such as “Is there a God?”, “How are scientific theories established?”, or “What is the moral status of specific business, scientific, or social practices?”

Major and Minor Requirements

A philosophy major prepares students for graduate work leading to college teaching, or for professional schools in areas such as law, medicine, religion, or social service. A philosophy major also is a solid basis for any broad program of humanistic studies. A minor in philosophy can complement almost all other areas of study which raise questions about values or methodology, including law, business, education, and the sciences.

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