Welcome!
Philosophy is, literally, the "love of wisdom." Philosophy courses at Bethany College encourage this love, develop intellectual tools vital to the search for wisdom, and study the best human efforts (past and present) at attaining wisdom. We believe everyone should be a philosopher, a lover of wisdom.
Philosophy deals with basic questions that impact all academic disciplines: what can be known and how it can be known, what it is to be human (human nature and the purpose of human existence), how humans ought to act (right and wrong), what is real and what is good and evil (the nature and purpose of the universe), what can be known about the existence of God and of God's nature. Philosophy courses at Bethany College examine these (and many related) issues from a broad perspective that includes contrasting viewpoints within western culture as well as insights from other cultures. The careful examination of these issues strengthens any major course of study, providing the foundation and breadth needed to use that knowledge in a wise manner. Philosophy requires careful deliberation. It is sometimes described as thought that has been thought out. The intellectual skills vital to the search for wisdom include critical thinking (the ability to examine arguments and claims) and introspection (the ability to examine one's own opinions and way of life). The Philosophy courses at Bethany College, both directly and indirectly, develop and encourage these abilities. Of course, these skills are not just vital to the search for wisdom, but to success in any profession and endeavor.
Oftentimes philosophy professors are stereotyped as skeptical individuals who, because they question everything, don't believe in much of anything. This is not the case at Bethany. Philosophy is taught within the scope of the academic mission of the College, which includes the fostering of Christian faith. Courses are taught with the ideal of integrating faith and learning, but with the recognition that thinking about one's beliefs is crucial to both faith and learning. Thus, philosophy courses at Bethany College are very beneficial to students that are serious about their faith. The Religion and Philosophy department at Bethany College offers a minor in Philosophy, although a contract major is possible, which is a excellent complement to any major. Philosophy students consistently score the highest on pre-graduate school examinations. They are well prepared to continue their education beyond undergraduate studies, whether within their profession or in graduate school.
If you have any questions about Philosophy at Bethany College, please email Professor Yorton: yortonb@bethanylb.edu |
