Introduction

Historically, philosophy has been the academic basis and scholastic root for any body of knowledge. It is not only the study of individual knowledge and life in general, but also encompasses the pursuit of common and fundamental truths about the world, providing the unifying principle and directional nature for  academic disciplines and sciences. The comprehensive and practical nature of philosophy and its study enable us to appreciate the meaningful life and at the same time provide the enriching and broad perspectives of the world around us.

Aims

The Jeju National University Department of Philosophy offers the academic curricula comprised of courses based on the History of Oriental and Occidental Philosophy and the Basic Theories and offers such classes as Logic, Scientific Philosophy, Religious Philosophy, Historical Philosophy, Social Philosophy, Environmental Philosophy, and Art Philosophy. Philosophy majors critically learn these subjects and equip themselves with the ability to make an independent decision and form a rational view of the world through the study of the philosophy courses. The department not only satisfies students’ needs to be well-rounded in the knowledge of philosophy, but encourages them to experiment a variety of programs to put the scholarly subjects into practice in life. For example,  the Department of Philosophy sponsors annual “Minerva’s Feast” week during which the students and faculty organize and participate in forum, special lectureship, play and film festivals, etc. An essay writing program is also run during summer breaks. Other extracurricular activities include a philosophy education club for children and a film club for philosophical discussion to explore the role of philosophical thoughts in life. Faculty and students of the department also collaborate in publishing an annual society journal 『Jeju Sophia』 which is becoming a tradition of uniqueness and creativity for the students.

Careers

Philosophy is said to be the queen of all knowledge subjects, and as such the students are able to choose widely their careers in politics, society, culture, arts, religion, and many other areas. Philosophy majors are particularly suited for the journalism profession as reporters, editors, producers, and broadcasting writers as they are taught to be creative, critical and rational in planning and publicizing  cultural and arts related programs. Secondary school teaching (for example, philosophy and ethics) is another popular career option for the philosophy graduates. For the ever changing society entailing rational judgement and innovative planning, philosophy majors may find the teaching of essay writing attractive for the young people preparing for college entrance. Finally, graduate study is another option for those who wish to pursue academic and research careers.

History

1998

Established College of Humanities Department of Philosophy

1999

Held 1st Philosophy Week “Minerva’s Feast”

Held 1st and 2nd Philosophy Reading Contests

2001

Published 1st Departmental Philosophy Journal 『Jeju Sophia』

Opened secondary school ethics and philosophy courses

Offered summer essay class

Opened‘Children’s Philosophy Class’

2003

Established Graduate College Philosophy M.A. program

2012

Instituted Philosophy Ph.D. program

2013

Department picked as “Outstanding Academic Department”

2015

Selected as “Outstanding Academic Department” in basic preservation subjects area

2016

“Best Academic Department” in basic preservation subjects area

2017

Published 17th issue 『Jeju Sophia』

Held 19th “Minerva’s Feast” Week