Philosophy, in its traditional sense, is understood as the love of wisdom. In its modern form, philosophy is a search for general theoretical explanations in an attempt to answer certain basic questions: what is real? (metaphysics); what can I know? (epistemology); what should I do? (ethics). Studies in Philosophy will equip students with skills essential for many pursuits, including careers in post-secondary education, law, government, policy-making, and administration.

Why Major in Philosophy at CMU?
Philosophy at CMU – while it explores aspects related to each of the questions of metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics – also involves the ongoing task of rethinking the very idea of philosophy itself. In particular, it investigates the philosopher’s desire for general explanations, and seeks instead to explore philosophies as ways of life. Of special interest is how all of this relates to that peculiar way of life called church. Such an enquiry will approach philosophy historically and contextually rather than as a series of answers to abstract theoretical questions, which suggests that philosophy is best understood in its more traditional sense as the love of wisdom.