Minor in Philosophy

Students pursuing a minor in philosophy at Clark can choose one of two tracks. Each track requires six courses in philosophy and is designed to develop students’ intellectual skills and to familiarize them with the fundamental methods of philosophical inquiry. Each track begins with a foundation in critical thinking and practical ethics.

The Great Issues-minor track emphasizes a grounding in the history of philosophy. This track engages the student in the fundamental philosophical questions with which human beings have been perennially concerned: for example, Does God exist? How ought I to live? What is knowledge? Do human beings have free will? Can political authority be legitimated? Is there life after death?

The Enriched-minor track emphasizes advanced work in courses related to students’ majors. This track engages students in the fundamental philosophical questions, which their own major fields raise but do not answer: for example, What is a mind? What is a person? What is the nature of a profession? What is science? What is justice?

Requirements for the Great Issues-Minor Track

• One course in critical thinking/logic (PHIL103, 107 or 110)
• One course in practical ethics (PHIL105, 130, 131, 132, 133 or 139)
• Three courses in the history of philosophy (PHIL141, 142, 143, 145, 148, 154 or 215)
• One advanced elective course (PHIL150+)

Requirement for the Optional Enriched-Minor Track

• One course in critical thinking/logic (PHIL103, 107 or 110)
• One course in practical ethics (PHIL105, 130, 131, 132, 133 or 139)
• One course in the history of philosophy (PHIL141, 142, 143, 145, 148, 154 or 215)
• One elective course, chosen at any level
• Two advanced courses (PHIL150+) chosen to complement the student’s major or pre- professional program.