Logic / Philosophy

Course summary

Philosophy deals with questions that are profound, intellectually challenging, complex, and important for humanity. Offered at both Higher and Standard Levels as part of the IB Diploma, the emphasis of the course is very much on ‘doing’ philosophy and pupils will develop their critical and analytical thinking skills, and learn to reason and argue effectively. Students take modules on what it is to be human, ethics, political philosophy and the philosophy of religion, and explore in detail Plato’s ‘Republic’. All pupils produce a piece of coursework that involves responding philosophically to a non-philosophical stimulus of their own choice. Higher-level candidates also take an additional paper, which requires them to reflect on the nature of philosophy itself and how philosophy can contribute to our thinking about technological and environmental issues. Philosophy graduates are in demand for their ability to analyse critically. This is a transferable skill that is useful in law, finance, journalism and the civil service. Philosophy graduates also find their way into teaching and management consultancy. A philosophy degree is a good foundation for further study.