Dr. BJ Condrey

In his final chapter of The Problems of Philosophy, titled “The Value of Philosophy,” Bertrand Russell makes a passionate case for the enduring significance of philosophical study, a chapter I encourage and sometimes require all my undergraduate students to read and reflect on. Published in 1912, Russell’s work still resonates today as he argues that philosophy’s true value lies not merely in acquiring concrete answers but in expanding our minds beyond narrow, practical concerns. While I don’t endorse all of Russell’s views in this chapter, it is a thought-provoking and exhilarating read that challenges students to think deeply about the role of philosophy in their lives. This text serves as a powerful springboard for discussions on the relevance of philosophy in life and their future careers.

Majoring in philosophy offers superb preparation for both law school and ministry, as it hones critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and analytical skills—qualities essential for interpreting legal texts as well as texts in theology, philosophy, and ethics. It can also be helpful for guiding moral and spiritual discussions. In fact, philosophy majors consistently perform among the highest on the LSAT, with average scores often surpassing those of students in other fields, underscoring their aptitude for law school.

Of course, there are many other benefits of studying philosophy, but I want to keep this short. Your welcome!