Characteristic of philosophy is the critical examination of systems of thought found in the historical tradition as well as engaging the fundamental challenges of the contemporary world. Accordingly, the study of philosophy leads to an intimate acquaintance with a multitude of different world views and ways of thinking, and for this reason promises to broaden one’s intellectual horizon. To this end, students will learn to compare and contrast opposing points of view and contradictory positions while also learning to judge the validity of such rival approaches via critical investigation of their arguments and counter-arguments.

The philosophy department in Bielefeld places its emphasis on areas of study that are most relevant to, and meaningful for, the contemporary practice of the art. Research in the department is for this reason oriented especially on the following areas of practical and theoretical philosophy:

Theoretical Philosophy	Practical Philosophy
- Philosophy of Mind	- Political Philosophy
- Philosophy of Science	- Ethics
- Philosophy of Language	- Action Theory
- Epistemology	- Philosophy of Justice

 

Studying philosophy in Bielefeld emphasizes a systematic approach, and also places special value on conceptual clarity and rational argument. The interpretation of classical texts belongs to such philosophical understanding as well. The goal of the department is to simultaneously promote the investigation of the history of ideas along with the development of independent answers to issues in contemporary philosophy.

The department intends to appeal, in particular, to students whose interests lie in areas of inquiry such as the philosophy of mind, history and philosophy of science, political philosophy in history and the present, ethics and action theory.  

 

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Profile of the Philosophy Department