Philosophy

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The study of philosophy has, as it's primary aim, the cultivation of wisdom and understanding regarding the most basic and foundational elements of human experience (e.g., the nature and structure of reality, knowledge, and values), pursued through the application of rational argument and critical thinking. This program constitutes an excellent liberal arts foundation for students planning to pursue university studies in philosophy, law, education, communications, science, and art, among others.

Program Purpose

Graduates will demonstrate (1) basic knowledge and analytical skill in philosophy that will prepare them for transfer to the university and (2) critical thinking skills in AWC’s General Education focus areas.

Learning Outcomes

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• Develop basic critical thinking skills and grasp of the elementary principles of logic and argumentation.
• Recognize the distinctive contributions made by major philosophers and philosophical traditions down through history.
• Articulate the contents of their thinking and reasoning through written prose, with appropriate attention to and concern for the conventions and principles of composition and argumentative discourse.
• Identify the basic parts of arguments (i.e., premises and conclusions) as well as to distinguish an argument from a non-argument (e.g., an assertion, explanation, disagreement etc.).
• Recognize the differences between inductive and deductive argument forms.
• Evaluate the soundness/cogency of an argument by looking for problems of ambiguity, false premises, faulty assumptions, and structural invalidity (both formal and informal).
• Make connections between major philosophers and their particular writings and ideas.
• Describe how the ideas of one philosopher were both influenced by and subsequently impactful on other thinkers.
• Explain the unique contributions made by the major philosophers in the formation and development of the central branches of philosophical study (i.e., logic, epistemology, metaphysics, ethics, etc).
• Construct and advance, in writing, an original thesis, defining and clarifying key terminology, as well as providing true evidence that supports the thesis and renders it plausible.
• Anticipate and respond to potential objections to one’s thesis, as well as explain why alternative views are questionable and implausible.
• Obey conventional rules of grammar, syntax, and spelling, in addition to conforming one’s writing to a consistent set of style guidelines, citing any and all sources, and having a clear and logical arrangement of ideas.
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Open the program map above to view the recommended classes to complete the program. You can also print the program map using the button above.

Transfer Information

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