"He who knows only his own side of the case knows little of that." Mill
Philosophy is the examination of ideas and the evaluation
of first principles. In addition to studying its own traditional areas
such as ethics, logic, metaphysics and epistemology, philosophy investigates
other disciplines by critically reviewing their foundations and methods.
Philosophy helps us free ourselves from dogmatic or unreflective habits
of mind. It instills habits of intellectual integrity, impartiality,
and rationality. Philosophy enlarges our conception of what is possible
and enriches our intellectual imagination. Accordingly, philosophy is
an essential ingredient of any sound education.
Besides providing individual courses, the Philosophy Department offers a well-rounded minor in philosophy. The minor provides an introduction to ethics, logic, and the history of philosophy. It also helps students develop crucial intellectual skills such as critical thinking, logical reasoning, and conceptual analysis; in short, it helps students learn to think for themselves. Emphasis is balanced between philosophical content and the cultivation of philosophical thinking.
Minne
Hall, Room 329
507-457-5475
What
is Philosophy?
Philosophy
is the quest for fundamental truths. It searches for the most
rational answers to questions such as:
* What
makes an action right or wrong?
* What
is knowledge?
* What
is the nature of the mind?
* Is
there adequate reason to believe God exists?
* Is
abortion or the death penalty ethical?
Why
get a Philosophy Minor?
By asking such
fundamental questions, Philosophy examines the basic assumptions, principles,
and methods used in other disciplines, such as the one in which you
major. It does this to see if those disciplines are justifiably
based. Just as you would want your house built on a firm foundation,
so you would want your major or profession built upon verified, rational
premises.
Philosophy
is also the most direct way to enhance your critical thinking and analytical
skills.
Philosophy
& Information Technology:
The Philosophy Department at Winona State University has the only completely computer-assisted Critical Thinking course in Minnesota. All exams are done in the Department’s Critical Thinking Lab. In this self-mastery course, you work to competence, receiving immediate feedback on your exercises and reviewing and retaking exams until you pass them. Personal tutoring is available in the CT Lab 30 hours per week.
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