Philosophy and Humanities Department
MacLean Hall 279, (218) 477-2478
Chair: Theodore Gracyk
Faculty: Joseph Bessie, Marilea Bramer, Randy Cagle, Phil Mouch, Chang-Seong Hong

The study of philosophy develops the ability to solve problems, communicate, organize ideas and issues, assess pros and cons and boil down complex data. It is a reasoned pursuit of fundamental truths, a quest for understanding, a study of principles of conduct. It seeks to establish standards of evidence, to provide rational methods of resolving conflicts, and to create techniques for evaluating ideas and arguments. Philosophy develops the perspective of other individuals and cultures; enhances one’s ability to perceive the relationships among various fields of study; and deepens one’s understanding of the varieties of human experience. People trained in philosophy are prepared for many tasks—they can cope with change, or even move into new careers more easily.

Philosophy is an excellent second major or minor to accompany a major in any other discipline. The Minnesota State University Moorhead curriculum makes it possible to start a major in philosophy as late as the beginning of the junior year. Philosophy courses enhance understanding of communication and society (journalism); examine moral and legal reasoning (pre-law); and create a greater capacity for the integration of medical research and ethics (pre-med/ health professions). Courses are also available in the areas of general ethics, logic and philosophy of science (pre-engineering), and philosophy of religion (pre-seminary).

People trained in philosophy enter teaching professions (at all levels), medicine, law, computer science, management, publishing, sales, criminal justice and public relations. Most fields employ people educated in philosophy. Minnesota State University Moorhead’s Philosophy Department guides students to become clear thinkers and good writers, skills valued in all professions. The generalist approach of philosophy gives graduates the ultimate in flexibility, the capability to adapt to changing ideas and technologies, and a framework of reason to guide one’s personal life.