The Core Program in Philosophy

It is the judgment of the Department that the best introduction to philosophy for the undergraduate is a study of the three major periods of Western thought - namely, the classical, the medieval, and the modern. Reflected here, moreover, is a division that is more than chronological; the courses represent markedly different approaches to the philosophic enterprise, each of which demands detailed and careful treatment. An acquaintance with dominant themes of each of these periods is felt to be fundamental for advanced study in any field and for a liberal education in general. Such a program, finally, accords with the special identity of Fairfield University, its tradition and values.

Each student takes two semesters of philosophy. The first course is PH 10 - Introduction to Philosophy; the second course is selected from one of the Modern Philosophy options numbered from PH 100 to 199.