About Philosophy

The word philosophy comes from the Greek word philo meaning 'love', and sophia meaning 'wisdom.' So philosophy means 'love of wisdom.' Philosophy courses are about the ultimate nature of things, including knowledge, reality, reasoning, the human mind, religious belief, truth, free will, human nature and democracy, as well as ethical issues in biology, medicine, law, politics, and the environment. The Philosophy Department at Capilano University offers a wide range of first and second-year university transfer courses introducing students to most of these issues.

Philosophy is the activity of creating thoughtful answers to many of our most important questions. Philosophy is excellent preparation for any profession, but the most important reason for studying philosophy is human curiosity about fundamental problems concerning the nature of reality and how we ought to live. As Socrates said, "The unexamined life is not worth living."

Summer 2010 and 2010/2011 academic year course plans now posted - Courses

I think, therefore I earn
Philosophy graduates are suddenly all the rage with employers. What can they possibly have to offer?
Read more here. (guardian.co.uk, 20 Nov., 2007)

In a New Generation of College Students, Many Opt for the Life Examined
"...philosophy is being embraced at Rutgers and other universities by a new generation of college students who are drawing modern-day lessons from the age-old discipline ... The economic downturn has done little, if anything, to dampen this enthusiasm among students, who say that what they learn in class can translate into practical skills and careers."
Read more here. (nytimes.com, 6 April, 2008)

Condensed Critical Thinking courses