Bring Back The Minor in Philosophy

By Edward H. Winkler, Colonel, US Army Retired

Until relatively recent times one the requirements for graduation from Fordham College was a minor in philosophy. In earlier times the study of philosophy was a major achievement in acquiring a liberal education. A student needed to earn the right to study philosophy. At Fordham, the philosophy minor was considered a hallmark of a Jesuit education and based on the idea that an educated person had studied philosophy. In 1966 when I became a senior, my classmates and I were proud to wear the philosophy gowns to our philosophy classes.

This is no longer the case, and I believe it is a great loss to the character of Fordham College, and more importantly, to the current Fordham College students.

There is one reason for this and that is the need for critical thinking. Philosophy is particularly suited as a vehicle for learning critical thinking. Philosophy and philosophers are diverse and often their views and thoughts are contradictory. Many of the writings concern the unknowable, such as the existence of God, and philosophers are equally adept at presenting convincing arguments in support of their positions. This is also correct on a more practical level. For example, how does Aquinas develop the idea of a Just War, while Thoreau would rather go to jail then pay the poll tax for the Mexican War? We can only compare Adam Smith with Karl Marx, never reconcile their views. Looking at these questions and attempting to arrive at an answer requires thought.

Other subjects of philosophy have more practical applications. Logic and ethics are two areas useful in everyday life. Two subjects that seem to be underutilized by politicians and business, among others.

Regardless of practicality, philosophy requires thought and critical thinking. By studying philosophy, with its vast number of topics, and its varying degrees of practicality, or impracticality, the student is required to think and learn. Through this process the true goal of a liberal education is achieved, namely, not to learn only information, but more importantly, to learn how to learn.

To this end, requiring a minor in philosophy would be a significant step in helping Fordham College graduates make a difference.