Philosophy

Philosophy is a systematic reflection on the basic questions that have excited human curiosity and that are the object of profound concern: where we come from, what we ought to do, what we may hope for, who we really are.

As such, the study of philosophy leads students to a healthy critique of personal and social beliefs, prejudices, and presuppositions by confronting the diversity of views that is so conspicuous in the history of philosophy, thereby preparing them to develop their choices in a pluralistic society.

Moreover, as philosophy is value-oriented, it complements those departments that in this regard are necessarily "neutral." Like literature and art, but in a unique manner, it is capable of developing in a person a more sensitive, more appreciative attitude toward life. By its breadth, it can compensate for the specialization that is more and more required by the needs of our scientific age. In fact, inasmuch as philosophy takes all human experience for its province, it can easily constitute the integrating principle in a student's entire intellectual life.

For students who desire to make philosophy their life work, the undergraduate curriculum offered at Spring Hill can be the first major step toward acquiring competence in philosophy necessary for those who would teach it or, through research and sustained reflection, seek to push forward the frontiers of human understanding. For most students, however, philosophy is profitable inasmuch as it can give valuable background and support for specialized work in various fields such as law, history, literature, theology, as well as the social and the natural sciences. In fact, students who have no intention of making a career of philosophy may very well choose to major in it as a good foundation for any career, and above all, as an excellent preparation for a richer, more human existence. Such students may prefer to double major in philosophy and some other field. A double major is quite practical, and the departments concerned will work out the details in such a way as not to overburden the students who accept this challenge. In any event, students may deepen their understanding of the great questions and augment their powers of reflection by electing one or more courses in philosophy over and above the general requirements of nine to twelve semester hours.

Spring Hill College, as an institution of higher learning, draws its ultimate inspiration from its commitment to religious values. In the language of the Jesuit tradition, the College is committed to "the service of faith and the promotion of justice," which grows out of the Christian gospel. With the view that faith is not simply one isolated area of human experience and reflection but, rather, is the expression of a life vision from which all thought and action flow, the College considers a critical reflection on faith an integral part of its curriculum.

The fundamental rationale of the theology core requirement is to introduce students to serious, critical reflection on questions of ultimate meaning and transcendence. Courses range from the study of world religions and the human experience of faith to an exploration of sacraments, liturgy, and sacred scriptures. Students, regardless of religious affiliation, are challenged to a deeper understanding of their own religious experience and the religious heritage of Western civilization.

For students interested in a broader understanding of theological questions or in preparation for some form of church ministry, there are several special programs: a minor in theology, a major or double major, and a major with a concentration in a particular area of ministry: youth, liturgical, social or catechetical (religious education). Special programs for adult students offer a certificate in theological studies, a lay-ministry certificate (see the Continuing Studies part of this Bulletin for the T.I.P.S. program), as well as the graduate theology degrees and certificates (see Graduate section of Bulletin). In addition to regular course offerings, a complete introduction to Catholic faith and practice is offered by the RCIA program, sponsored jointly with Campus Ministry.