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New
cognitive studies track in the philosophy department
By Michael Nataro '06
In fall 2004, the philosophy department created a
new area of concentration, cognitive studies. This field of study within the
philosophy major is the sixth “track” offered by the department. According
to the Rev. James J. McCartney, O.S.A., coordinator for undergraduate
philosophy studies, students in the major choose the track, or field of
study, in which they wish to concentrate. In addition to the
already-existing pre-law track, social and political philosophy and ethics
track, cultural studies track, continental philosophy track and the history
of philosophy track, the cognitive studies track allows students with
interests in the theories of knowledge and the philosophy of science to
pursue a track suited to their needs.
“The new cognitive studies track is a potential
option to any student majoring in cognitive science, psychology or the
natural sciences with an interest in the philosophy and thought behind their
first field of study, said Father McCartney. “This track was initiated for
those students whose interest in philosophy might be related to current
analytical thought and also for those interested in science, especially the
cognitive science major.”
Students in all tracks must take three electives
focused in their desired field of study within the philosophy major. In
addition to the track courses, students must take Introduction to
Philosophy, three history of philosophy courses, as well as either two
senior seminars or one seminar and a senior thesis.
Since the track system was instituted in 2002, the
department has grown from 15 majors to over 60. Dr. Helen Lang, chair of the
philosophy department expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming program. “The
cognitive studies track is one of the most intellectually exciting areas and
it’s one of the coming areas of the 21st century. I’m very proud
the philosophy department can contribute to this program and attain a
partnership with the other departments in cognitive science.” |
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