Philosophy
Overview
Philosophy is the study of some of the most fundamental questions faced by humanity, questions such as: What is truth? What is beauty? Do we know anything other than the contents of our own consciousness? What is the nature of reality? Can we prove that God exists? Which actions are morally right and which are morally wrong? Does life have a meaning?
The application of philosophy to business is emphasized in Bentley's nationally recognized program in business ethics. For more than 30 years, the Center for Business Ethics at Bentley has been a leader in the field of business ethics. The center organizes national conferences on business ethics, publishes research on ethical problems in business, and serves as a clearinghouse for a variety of groups concerned with ethics in business. Philosophy students at Bentley can take several different courses in business ethics, and can participate in other activities the center sponsors. The center provides a unique setting for thinking through the practical business implications of ethical reasoning.
In business, and in every other area of your life, you will make choices that help to determine how you live and who you are. Studying philosophy at Bentley will help you develop the ability to make these choices. As a philosophy student at Bentley, you'll learn to think clearly and critically, to identify and respond to divergent viewpoints, to analyze the moral dimensions of complex situations, and to reason effectively to solve problems.
Bentley places an emphasis on the liberal arts that distinguishes the school from other business programs around the country. While Bentley offers traditional philosophy courses, we also offer philosophy courses with a business slant. For instance, International Business Ethics, Corporate Social Responsibility, Philosophy of Work, and Ethical Issues in Banking and Finance are among the more than 25 courses within the department's curriculum.
Because Bentley is a business school, if you choose philosophy as your major, you'll also have ample opportunity to take business courses. You may choose to minor in a number of business disciplines, such as management, marketing, economics or finance. You can gain a distinct competitive advantage in the job market by combining skills in critical thinking with in-depth exposure to the challenges and practice of business.
