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The School of Athens, by Raffaello Sanzio. Plato and Aristotle are in the center, and many other ancient Greek philosophers are on the edges.

Academic Advisor

Namita Goswami
HH 248; X3102

A study in Philosophy provides students with an awareness of basic assumptions, an appreciation of ethical reasoning, and the power of logical analysis. These abilities are valuable in every academic endeavor. With appropriate work in related fields, the study of Philosophy prepares students for continuing education in law, theology, humanities, journalism, research, management, and a variety of graduate programs. Philosophy is best described as the complex of the following disciplines: logic, the study of correct or valid reasoning; ethics, the study of morality and value; aesthetics, the study of the nature of beauty and art; epistemology, the study of knowledge; and metaphysics, the study of the most general categories and principles in terms of which humankind understands the universe.

The close associations among these disciplines are made apparent upon in-depth investigation of a wide variety of philosophical issues. With its emphasis upon clarity and logical rigor on the one hand, and upon breadth and generality on the other, philosophy not only cultivates a critical and analytical perspective but also provides for a comprehensive world view. In this way, a study of Philosophy enables people to deal more thoroughly with the complex problems facing civilization. In support of the liberal arts and sciences mission of ISU, the Department of Philosophy participates in the Foundational Studies program, the University Honors program, and the Gender Studies program.