Philosophy Major?

Question

What can a person do with a major in philosphy? I know that they can sit and think deep thoughts about unemployment, but what else can they do?

Answer 1

A philosophy degree is a good credential in that it shows you are a good thinker and, most likely, a good writer. The job market for "philosophers" is small, however. Few teaching positions for philosophy are open except maybe part time at junior colleges.

The competition for good faculty positions at major universities is very tough. Unless you attend a reknowned college or have published work that got a lot of attention in philosophical circles, you are unlikely to land a decent job teaching philosophy.

On the other hand, studying philosophy offers some intrinsic rewards that apply in many many aspects of life. I minored in philosophy in undergrad school. I was quite good at it. I enjoyed all my philosophy courses very much. I wound up in education and, then, computer programming. My background in philosophy aided my professional endeavors in both disciplines.

In philosophy, you have to be verbally gifted to successfully explain and critique philosophical concepts. If you learn to do this well, there is much transference value in education in that you will find it easier to communicate ideas to your students.

As a student of philosophy, I had to learn Norwegian Symbolic Logic. This greatly aided my understanding of computer programs.

Studying philosophy is something I have never regretted. When I am bored of reading everything else, I know I can always pick up one of the many philosophical works I have in my personal library and be re-envigorated by reading it.

My suggestion is to minor in philosophy and look seriously at some other major, possibly psychology. But it's only a suggestion. Advertising, many types of writing jobs, and numerous other professions have very successful members who have philosophy degrees.

The best suggestion anyone could give you is to do what you want.

Answer 2

I had two friends that were Philosophy majors. One, eventually went to law school and is now a lawyer for the EPA. The other traveled the world (was an observer for the free elections in South Africa, worked for Habitat for Humanity in South and Central America and spent time at a Tibet Monestary. He may have gotten a law degree too, or is a teacher.

Those guys may be the exception.

Answer 3

I do't know specifially what you can do with it. But there are probably many things. Just like me with an English major. All I needed to get a job was the diploma. It didn't usually matter what my major was. I would think it would show that you are a good thinker (?),problem solver(?). At the very least - intelligent and intellectual.
btw, I once read where someone put on an employment application he was currently "unemployed philosopher".

Answer 4

Become a Priest or teach and I know of nothing else. I have a Major in Philosophy, Theology and Psychology. The Philosophy because the Diocese required it. Totally worthless anywhere except in the academic world and not much good there.

Answer 5

You could be a writer and give intelligent insights for others to follow.

You could get into management and probably do a better job of leadership than someone with an MBA or Engineering degree. I have to put up with THESE clowns at work. I believe you could do better with a Philosophy degree -- better understading of the human animal and human condition.

Answer 6

Sound really smart while sitting around coffee houses.

Answer 7

Duhh be philosophy professors.

Answer 8

They can be college professors, get tenure and sit around with the rest of their tenured buddies and tell each other how intelligent they are and how stupid everybody else is.