Philosophy
What is Philosophy?
There is no one way of defining what Philosophy is. For some, it is a process, a method of thinking and questioning about the ‘big’ questions in life:
• What is knowledge? How do we get knowledge?
• How much, or little, can we be sure of? Can I be sure that things external to me exist? Can I be sure that I exist? If I do exist, what am I? If I exist now, does it follow that I existed this morning and will continue to exist tomorrow?
• What is the mind? Can I be sure that others have minds?
• Am I a being that makes free choices, or am I determined to act?
For others, it is the love of wisdom and the pursuit of wisdom. For all, it is one of the most rewarding, but demanding, subjects to study.
Why study Philosophy?
The approach taken to studying Philosophy at WCGS is two-fold. Firstly, there is the investigation of what philosophers have said throughout the ages on some of the most profound questions about humans, the universe and our place within it. As part of this process, students will know what has been said by academics and what the relevance of their arguments have been and still are. Secondly, there is the development of philosophical skills, such as the ability to identify and construct arguments, the ability to assess the success of arguments and suggest alternatives in light of these successes or weaknesses and the ability to form reasoned judgements about a given position or argument.
What will I get from studying Philosophy at WCGS?
Through studying Philosophy, it will enable you to:
• Gain an understanding of some important Philosophical ideas, their historical presentation and their contribution to modern thought;
• Strengthen your capacity for analysis, reasoning and judgement;
• Spot defects of logic, learn how to put forward a clear argument, gain confidence in discussion. understand views different from your own and help you to counter others' arguments;
• Provide you with an excellent mental training of great value;
• Gain insights into how other subjects work;
• Take part in active teaching methods including vigorous debate.
The department has an excellent record of results at AS and A2 Level, both in terms of A/B% and Value Added scores. In 2006, one student was in the top 5 nationally at A2 and is now studying Philosophy and Theology at Oxford. In 2007, 7 students who studied Philosophy at WCGS went on to read Philosophy at university and 3 in 2008, either as a single or combined honours course. In 2009, 100% of students achieved an A/B at A-Level.
Want to find out more? Speak to Mr Brewer, in the Sixth Form Common Room, Dr Young, in RS2, or Mr. Affleck in RS1.