BA (Philosophy Major)

As a result of completing this program, students should be able to:

• analyze and interpret arguments
• identify valid and invalid arguments
• justify beliefs with reference to standards of proof
• apply ethical reasoning to contemporary life
• situate culturally-specific beliefs in a philosophical context
• describe major philosophical trends and assess their strengths and weaknesses
• apply historical understanding to key philosophical questions
• evaluate information for its relevance and reliability 
   

Honours BA (Philosophy Major)

As a result of completing this program, students should be able to:

• analyze and interpret arguments
• analyze and interpret  key texts in the history of philosophy
• identify valid and invalid arguments
• justify beliefs with reference to standards of proof
• evaluate and apply the rules of evidence
• apply deductive reasoning to the analysis of natural language arguments
• demonstrate a critical and sceptical attitude toward knowledge claims
• evaluate contemporary ethical claims with reference to the history of philosophy
• apply ethical reasoning to contemporary life
• apply ethical reasoning in a professional context (e.g., business, health)
• situate culturally-specific beliefs in a philosophical context
• identify theoretical assumptions at work in other disciplines
• discuss significant debates and changing practices within the profession of philosophy
• describe major philosophical trends and assess their strengths and weaknesses
• identify multiple possible explanations for perennial philosophical questions
• apply historical understanding to key philosophical questions
• evaluate information for its relevance and reliability
• plan and conduct research that is accurate, thorough, and broadly based
• communicate research results clearly and effectively (orally and written)