Nov 06, 2024  
University Catalog 2023-2024 
    
University Catalog 2023-2024 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Department of Philosophy


Information about the Department of Philosophy

Office

Engineering and Technology A432
Phone: (323) 343-4180
Fax: (323) 343-4193
E-mail: gcarlis2@calstatela.edu
Advisement E-mails: philba@calstatela.edu or philma@calstatela.edu
Website: Department of Philosophy

Chair

David Pitt
E-mail: dpitt@calstatela.edu
Phone: (323) 343-4180

Overview

Philosophy engages students in thinking about the fundamental questions of human life-life’s meaning and the ways in which we understand the world and our place in it. Philosophy students read and discuss writings of the world’s great thinkers, both in the history of philosophy and in the contemporary arena. Studies include ethics, political and social thought, logic, theory of knowledge, philosophy of science, philosophy of art and film, philosophy of law, philosophy of religions, metaphysics, feminist philosophy, philosophy and race, biomedical ethics, existentialism, postmodern thought, philosophy of language and philosophy of mind.

Those who study philosophy are valued by employers, graduate schools and professional schools in a wide range of fields for their analytic skills, their clear thinking and writing, their creative imagination, and the broad base of their background and knowledge. Philosophy is an appropriate field of study for students hoping to attend law school.

An undergraduate major can be taken in Philosophy with either of two options: General and Prelaw. An undergraduate minor in Philosophy with General and Prelaw options is available for students majoring in other fields.

The Master of Arts degree in Philosophy offers students a broad background in both the history of philosophy and contemporary thought. The program is designed to accommodate various student goals, for example, preparation for further graduate study or for community college teaching, as well as self-enrichment. In some specific areas of philosophy, career opportunities are available in institutions engaged in basic research.

Philosophy students have many opportunities to interact informally with faculty members and to work with each other. There is a student Philosophy Club and a student journal, Philosophy in Practice.

The Faculty

Professors: Mohammed Abed, Mark Balaguer, Talia Bettcher,  Richard Dean, David Pitt (Chair), Michael Shim
Associate Professors: Foad Dizadji-Bahmani, Katie Howard
Emeriti: Sharon Bishop, Donald R. Burrill, Ann Garry, Ricardo J. Gomez, Henry R. Mendell, Sheila Price, Kayley Vernallis

Programs

    Degree - UndergraduateDegree - MinorDegree - Graduate

    Courses

      Philosophy (Graduate)Philosophy (Undergraduate)