Languages and Linguistics Concentration

Philosophers have always seen language as a fundamental expression of our humanity, and so the study of language has had a central place in all philosophical inquiry. In fact, philosophy since the beginning of the 20th century has been defined by what has been called the “Linguistic Turn.” Your foundational studies in logic and the history of philosophy will allow you to deepen your interest in language as you study key issues and theories in linguistic theory. The languages and linguistics concentration, thus, will prepare you for further study in logic and linguistics, give you theoretical support in your work as a translator or as a teacher of foreign languages or ESL. It will also strengthen your language skills for careers in journalism or publishing.

Languages and linguistics is one of four required concentration options for philosophy majors.

Learn more about the linguistics major/minor in the languages and linguistics department ➔

COURSES FACULTY

Why study philosophy (languages and linguistics) at Gordon?

The distinctive backgrounds and expertise of Gordon’s Political Science, History and Philosophy Department faculty will provide you with wide-ranging exposure to the major movements in the history of philosophy. You’ll study figures like Socrates, St. Augustine and Kierkegaard, and issues like the problem of suffering and what it means to live a good life. You will also engage with a community of Christian scholars who will introduce you to a life-long dialogue on crucial contemporary questions. This grounding in the foundational issues and figures will prepare you to complete your major with a concentrated area of study that reflects your specific interests and career goals.

What careers can I pursue by studying philosophy (languages and linguistics)?

The study of the fundamental elements of philosophy will improve your ability to think and write clearly, uncover hidden assumptions, explain complexity, make connections and evaluate and construct strong arguments. These critical thinking and writing skills are essential preparation for any further study or vocation. In conjunction with your area of concentration, your philosophy degree will prepare you for graduate work or employment in areas such as:

Law
Business
Government and Public Policy
Publishing
Conflict Mediation
Theology
Ordained Ministry
Philosophy teacher or professor

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Go the extra mile!

Every philosophy major will complete their program with an internship or final research project appropriate for their concentration. For students who wish to pursue honors in philosophy, recommended for any student thinking of pursuing graduate studies, the capstone course will focus on developing and writing an honor’s thesis that will be defended before the department and prepared for publication in an appropriate scholarly journal.

If you are interested in cross-disciplinary issues, build on your philosophy studies and explore these interests through the Kenneth L. Pike Honors Program. As Pike Scholars, Gordon philosophy students have pursued interdisciplinary study in topics such as environmental ethics, religion and society, and combinations of politics, philosophy and economics. Attend and submit your papers to undergraduate research conferences; join the Philosophy Club; learn about fascinating topics through the Center for Faith and Inquiry's visiting scholars’ lectures, which are often philosophical in nature. And our proximity to Boston affords you the opportunity to take advantage of lectures and resources there.