LLP On Philosophy and Critical Thinking

Engaging Students in how Philosophy is Related to our Everyday Lives
By Amauri Barnes

Dr. Shannon Hayes

Do you know the definition of Philosophy? According to Dr. Shannon Hayes, “Philosophy is many things,
but all above it is an activity that is taking place whenever people are calling into question pre-established traditions, norms, and values: engaging in pursuit of truth and wisdom for their own sake: and turning with openness and curiosity to the mystery of being”.

Philosophy comes from the Ancient Greek words for “love of wisdom.” It is the search for truth based on reason rather than religious teaching. Dr. Hayes has been at TSU since Fall of 2019. Philosophy is a required course for most pre-med students to graduate because Science and Philosophy share the tools of logic, conceptual analysis, and rigorous argumentation.

Philosophy is important on a college campus because it prepares students to be open minded and think logically in the workplace. The impact this course has on students varies, but all are of positive aspects. For some they are introduced to a field of study that speaks to their longstanding questions and concerns. Those students, especially, benefit from working on a minor in philosophy. For others, the experience is one of frustration and confusion, explained Hayes.

Across the board, students have found it engaging and interesting to participate in class discussions related to topics of philosophy. There have not yet been any events, however in the Spring “we look forward to opening the world of philosophy to more students on campus interested in the subject to engage with us,” said Dr. Hayes.

Overall, there are many takeaways in philosophy, but the ones most important to Hayes are quoted in the following: “In Philosophy we engage timeless questions about human existence. What is the meaning of life? What is the nature of reality? What does it mean to be a good person? I hope my students come away from the course knowing that they are and always have been philosophers, and that they have just as much right and responsibility to answer these questions as anyone else.”

That statement from Hayes was beautiful and very impactful. After reading this article. I leave you with one question to answer: whether it’s now or later in life, what is Philosophy to you?

Spring 2024 classes taught by Dr. Hayes: