Philosophy majors consider the questions at the core of human experience - the nature of reality, the extent of human knowledge, the basis of moral and ethical thought and behavior, the resolution of conflict, and the origin of belief. Students may also choose an optional emphasis in religious studies.With support from the Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Hume Bryant Lectureship in Ethics Endowment, philosophy students have the opportunity to join the Ethics Bowl debate team that travels to regional and national competitions. In partnership with the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, the department administers the Frate Fellowship in Bioethics, allowing students to confront ethical challenges in a real world hospital setting while working with nurses, doctors, and medical administrators. Faculty-led Study USA courses include Environmental Ethics that travels to the Washington D.C. area.<br><br>KEY BENEFITS<br>Philosophy majors clarify their own beliefs, develop a basis for ethical decisions, and formulate a coherent approach to life. They learn how to think logically, analyze problems, assess proposed solutions, communicate clearly, conduct research, and think creatively and imaginatively. The Department of Philosophy and Religion has particular strengths in ethics, supported in part by the Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Hume Bryant Lectureship in Ethics Endowment.