Philosophy  
Department of History and Philosophy.
Lander University
Greenwood, S.C. 29649

What Is Philosophy?

Welcome to Philosophy.     

At some point in your undergraduate career, you might wonder whether it  would be interesting to learn a little about philosophy.  Not many philosophers hazard to define philosophy because as a discipline philosophy is not so much a field of inquiry as it is a vital engagement with all fields of inquiry. Although philosophy is the heart of liberal education, philosophy also investigates the foundations for all disciplines of study.

What is Philosophy About?

     The breadth of philosophy can be suggested two ways.  First, of course, the number of different disciplines in which the Ph.D. (Doctor of  Philosophy) is awarded is not just a historical accident.  In fact, the central divisions of most universities just a century ago were separated into moral philosophy (something akin to the humanities) and natural philosophy (topics including the physical sciences.)
	 
     Second, the breadth of philosophy is shown by a quick glance at the history of science.  Although Pythagoras and Euclid were considered philosophers at the time, they are now thought of as mathematicians.  Heraclitus and Aristotle are generally considered  the first biologists.  Moreover, Galileo and Newton, now identified as physicists, were doing philosophy.  In point of fact, Newton's magnum opus is entitled, Principles of Natural Philosophy.  As well,  Dalton's magnum opus is New Principles of Chemical Philosophy.         In a word, the sciences have mainly derived from philosophy, and this genetic basis helps to explain why philosophy is not usually considered a standard discipline in the usual sense of the word.

 Philosophy at Lander University

     Your study of philosophy will include more than a study of the unification of all human knowledge and practice; your study will also lead to facility with widely diverse and different methods of inquiry.  Undergraduate courses in philosophy are notable in their emphasis upon the acquisition of skills and methodologies for problem-solving in all areas of human endeavor.
	 
     Whether you plan to major in the Humanities, Social Sciences,  Business, Education, or the Fine Arts, your philosophy courses will complement your major by providing the tools for insight, analysis, interpretation, and imagination for your chosen field of study.  Indeed, the study of philosophy is directly sought by professionals in law, medicine, social service, business, public administration, law enforcement, journalism, and foreign service.

Contact Us!

     If philosophy appears interesting to you, you are encouraged to look over the courses offered and discuss your interests with a  faculty member in philosophy.  Feel free to stop by our offices or contact us by e-mail, telephone, or fax.       
	 And welcome to the inquiry called "philosophy."  We look forward to meeting you.

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