You are in the official 2002-2003 General Catalog
for California State University, Fresno.
Department of Philosophy
Department of Philosophy
The College of Arts and Humanities
ROBERT D. MALDONADO, Chair
Music Building, Room 102
(559) 278-2621
Music Building, Room 102
(559) 278-2621
http://www.csufresno.edu/Philosophy/
Faculty
Robert D. Maldonado, Chair
Terry R. Winant, Adviser
Karen Bell, Prelaw Adviser
Ann E. Berliner, Religious Studies Adviser
Pedro Amaral
Otávio Bueno
Ann E. Berliner
Donald N. Blakeley
Warren L. Kessler
James Slinger
The Department
Philosophy is one of the fundamental domains of human thought.
It grows out of basic life questions, including questions of ethics,
religion, politics, and science. The study of philosophy has had
an historic role in the core of sound education, because it helps
sharpen skills of careful, independent thinking and aids people
of all ages in defining their most important values and beliefs.
The examination of great philosophical ideas, and the emphasis
on clear reasoning and personal development that are involved
in philosophy serve as a strong foundation for life, regardless
of one's career objectives.
The Department of Philosophy offers students the following opportunities
for a rich and rewarding undergraduate experience: the traditional
B.A. philosophy major, the prelaw option, the religious studies
option, and the philosophy minor. The department provides ample
opportunity for individual attention and student participation
in its activities, e.g., Philosophy Club, symposia, colloquium,
etc.
The Prelaw Option emphasizes analytical skills, ethics,
and values courses. Law schools seek a broad general education
background and do not recommend any specific major. Students who
enjoy philosophy and are interested in law should find this option
an excellent way to combine their interests.
The Religious Studies Option offers objective methods for
exploring the vast and complex human experience known as religion.
This study is done with an appreciation for the variety and diversity
of religious beliefs and expressions. This option provides students
with an academic approach to religion in personal, social, historical,
and global contexts.
Faculty and Facilities
The department has a diverse and well-trained faculty with special interests ranging from logic and scientific method to existentialism and philosophy of religion. All members of the department share the conviction that the best way to teach philosophy is through an intense but sympathetic interchange between the teacher and the student. Our conference room is a pleasant and frequently used meeting place for students and faculty.
Career Opportunities
The undergraduate major provides an excellent foundation for
a variety of professional careers as well as for graduate study
in philosophy. Students who complete a major in philosophy develop
analytical, critical, and communicative skills which are demanded
by law schools, seminaries, and training programs in government
and business. Thus, graduating majors are often in a competitive
position for occupations that at first glance are not obviously
related to the study of philosophy. In fact, people who have majors
or minors in philosophy can be found in almost all areas of endeavor,
from medicine, law, and the ministry, to teaching, social work,
and fine arts.
Philosophy Courses