Philosophy is a rigorous and analytical investigation into timeless, important, and perplexing human questions, such as:
- What is the nature of consciousness?
- What is the right thing to do?
- What does it mean to really know something?
- What is the meaning of life?
- What is really going on when people try to use language to communicate with each other?
- Do we act freely and responsibly?
- What is the nature of existence?
- Why do we believe what we believe?
- Is there a god? (Do we care?)
As these questions indicate, philosophical concerns are central in the liberal arts. Its emphasis on clear reasoning and its attention to language and logic makes philosophy a particularly good major for students who are thinking about careers in law, business, publishing, and teaching. The Philosophy Department also encourages interdisciplinary majors, for example, psychology and philosophy, philosophy and law, philosophy and the arts, history and philosophy, philosophy and politics.
Scripps College offers cooperative programs in philosophy with The Claremont Graduate University, Harvey Mudd College, and Claremont McKenna College.