Could those deep conversations you love having with friends at 2 AM actually lead somewhere? Well, they can!
The reasons you should study philosophy go far beyond just impressing people at dinner parties.
According to a recent study by PayScale, philosophy graduates rank in the top 25% of mid-career salaries among all majors, with median earnings of £58,000 (source).
But the value of philosophy extends well beyond just the money. It's about developing a toolkit for life that serves you in ways you might not expect. Let's look at why this ancient field of study deserves your modern attention.
10 Reasons Why You Should Study Philosophy in College
Philosophy isn't just for people who want to stroke their chins and look thoughtful. It's for anyone curious about life's big (and small) philosophical questions. Reasons to study philosophy range from practical career advantages to deeply personal growth.
Here are ten compelling arguments for why you might want to consider philosophy courses during your university years.
1. You learn how to really think
One of the best reasons for studying philosophy is that it teaches you how to think, not what to think. Those who study philosophy not only memorise information but also learn to question preconceptions and recognise logical fallacies. Regular exposure to philosophical topics makes critical thinking second nature.
Both in school and in everyday life, you will begin to recognize trends in arguments and find bad logic. From arguments to decisions, this mental toolbox will help you become smarter in all areas. In philosophy, you learn to think through questions thoroughly before giving hasty answers; this skill is rather uncommon.
2. You will become better at expressing yourself
Why learn philosophy? It changes the way you speak. In philosophy, you not only have to write clearly, you also have to think clearly. If you deal with difficult concepts regularly, you will be better at explaining them simply.
Philosophy courses require sensible, persuasive writing. You learn how to express your point of view without superfluous jargon.
The communication skills you learn in philosophy writing will transfer directly to emails, presentations and discussions. Your language will help you to be more precise and articulate. Many philosophy students find that they are suddenly the ones their friends turn to when they need clear explanations.
3. This gives you a feel for everything
The exceptional ability to improve your performance in other subjects is one of many justifications for studying philosophy. Studying philosophy provides analytical tools that can be used in computer science, political science, literature and even many other fields!
The rigorous problem-solving method of philosophy improves your ability to solve difficult questions in any discipline. Philosophy of science allows you to better understand the scientific method. Philosophy of art enhances your enjoyment of the visual arts and literature.
The philosophical thinking skills you acquire allow you to make unforeseen connections between different topics. It's like a mental cross-training program that improves your overall academic performance.
4. You will perform better on standardized tests
Did you know that philosophy students always score high on standardized tests? Studying philosophy will help you perform better on the GMAT, LSAT and MCAT. Philosophy students outperform almost all other majors on these important tests.
Philosophy's demands for analytical thinking and careful reading translate directly to the tests. Philosophy shows you how to deconstruct difficult questions - exactly what is required in these exams.
The critical thinking tools that philosophy provides will help you evaluate competing positions and select the most logical answers. A background in philosophy will give you a big advantage if you want to go to college in the future.
5. You will develop a strong moral compass
Why study philosophy? It makes you think deeply about right and wrong. Philosophy doesn't tell you what to believe, but it helps you figure it out for yourself. Ethics courses explore different approaches to moral issues, such as social justice and animal rights.
You learn to analyze your own values and appreciate other people's points of view. Philosophy students form complex opinions on important issues facing humanity.
You will learn to negotiate moral complexity rather than accept simple solutions. In a professional environment where values are as important as personal decisions, this conscious ethical approach will help you.
6. It opens the door to many careers
Contrary to tired jokes, philosophy graduates have impressive career prospects! One reason to study philosophy is its surprising versatility in the job market. Philosophy graduates are highly successful in the fields of law, business, publishing, administration and engineering. Many employers value the clear thinking and communication skills that philosophy imparts.
A philosophy degree teaches you to analyze problems from different perspectives – a skill needed in any profession. Philosophy students acquire important skills in research, writing and critical analysis. With philosophy, you'll gain transferable skills that will set you apart, whether you pursue graduate or professional studies.
7. You will grasp the concepts that have shaped the world
The past of philosophy is essentially the past of human thought. Studying philosophy will help you to understand, among other things, how our present-day society came into being. You will examine fundamental questions about the nature of reality, knowledge and justice.
Knowledge of the philosophical origins of democracy, capitalism and human rights will provide the background for the arguments of today. Philosophy classes connect you with the greatest historical thinkers. They uncover the roots of our fundamental worldviews.
8. It teaches you to stay humble and curious
Why study philosophy? It reminds you of everything you are missing! Philosophy asks questions that have occupied great minds for centuries. Grappling with profound, unresolved questions fosters intellectual humility. Philosophy encourages you to engage with competing viewpoints rather than rejecting them.
You will become genuinely interested in different points of view. Studying philosophy teaches you to question your own beliefs and to be open to new insights. In both academic and non-academic environments, this mix of humility and curiosity will help you a lot.
As you explore different points of view, our note-taking tool can help you capture these philosophical ideas.
9. It will help you lead a more meaningful life
One of the most private motivations for studying philosophy is the ability to think about what really matters. Philosophy gives you tools to rethink your position in the world. Many philosophy courses deal with questions of the good life, meaning and happiness.
Dealing with these topics helps you to plan your own life better. Philosophy provides a framework for understanding suffering and meaning.
It enables you to formulate your values and follow them. Although the knowledge it imparts is timeless and useful, the subject of philosophy may seem like an unusual source of life guidance.
10. Employers actually love philosophy grads
Reasons you should study philosophy include surprising advantages in the job market. Philosophy majors are increasingly sought after in tech, finance, and consulting. Critical thinking skills are in high demand as routine tasks become automated. Philosophy graduates excel at complex problem-solving across different contexts.
Their ability to understand competing positions makes them valuable in negotiations and team settings. Philosophy teaches you to communicate clearly and persuasively – skills essential for leadership.
Surprisingly, many philosophers end up earning more than those with more "practical" majors. Employers value the unique perspective and analytical toolkit that philosophy provides.
Conclusion
The reasons you should study philosophy extend far beyond the classroom. Whether you choose it as a major or minor, philosophical thinking enriches every aspect of your education and life. Philosophy offers timeless tools for navigating an increasingly complex world.
It teaches you to think clearly, write persuasively, and live thoughtfully. These skills serve you well regardless of your ultimate career path. The value of philosophy isn't just in the questions it asks but in how it transforms the questioner.
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