Philosophy Major

When the Apostle Paul was in Athens, he spoke with Epicurean and Stoic philosophers. Christians today continue that conversation, and some Christians have been remarkable philosophers in their own right (e.g., Augustine and Aquinas). Philosophy resembles mathematics, in its rigor and clarity; history, in its sensitivity to people and ideas across cultures and ages; and literature, in its concern for articulate expression.

Philosophy is about the rigorous structuring of ideas and articulate expression, which is exactly what Amelia Dobbs ’14 loves. “The classes are usually in a small setting, and the professor sets up the topic with contextual history and previous beliefs,” she says. “The professors guide the conversations but allow us to come to our own conclusions.”

Classes are structured to challenge students in their own belief while providing a foundation of sound, biblical understanding. Students will take classes introducing them to Islam, Buddhism and Church history so they may gain a better understanding of Christianity.

As for Amelia, studying philosophy is anything but boring. “My major excites me because it never shows a dead end,” says Amelia. “I’m learning to go beyond just accepting a person and learning to engage in true dialogue.”