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What do Philosophy majors do when they graduate?

by Professor Matt Silliman

When a student rather pointedly asked me this question in class recently, my first impulse was to reply with the old riddle: "What do 800-pound gorillas eat?" The answer to both questions, of course, is "Whatever they want!"

I suspect the question, and the student, deserve a less flippant answer. Philosophy students do tend to do well at the many sorts of careers they undertake after graduation. Certainly the disposition and ability to think critically and systematically, read rigorously, construct effective and nuanced arguments, write clearly, question intelligently, and converse respectfully are the marks not only of an accomplished philosophy student, but of any capable and well-balanced person.

These qualities are valuable for both old and new reasons. Traditionally, the study of philosophy is at the heart of liberal learning because it addresses directly the various facets of the task of freeing the mind (and thus the person) from illegitimate constraints – from arbitrary external authority and coercion, and from internal confusion and error. This liberation, I believe, would be valuable in and for itself, even if it were of little significance in the matter of earning a living.

However, the skills and habits of philosophy acquire a new poignancy under the volatile conditions of contemporary economic life. Technology and work now change so rapidly that college graduates can expect to change careers – not just to different jobs but to completely different fields – two or three times during their working lives. The best preparation for this brave new world is to cultivate systematic learning and creative imagination themselves as a basic orientation toward life. Not only is such a life rewarding and enjoyable for its own sake, but it positions them well to perceive opportunities and make sound decisions in pursuing their material survival and comfort.

Many students come to college expecting to major in the field they intend to pursue as a career. This strategy often backfires, for it misunderstands both the central purpose of a college education and the nature of the modern workplace. I sometimes joke with my students that I know the secret of happiness – find out what matters to you so much that you would spend your life at it if you could do anything you chose, then get someone to pay you to do it – but I am not only joking. One step worth considering in your pursuit of happiness is to join the other budding 800-pound gorillas and study philosophy.