Philosophy The American University in Cairo

Overview

The Philosophy from The American University in Cairo emphasizes the importance of the study of the history of philosophy as the main avenue for both appreciating the plurality of positions it has given rise to and for the sake of cultivating the methodological versatility and patience such pluralism calls for in the 21st Century. 

Accordingly, our program historically gives students a unique opportunity to explore the common roots, interconnections and conceptual boundaries between Islamic and Western schools of philosophical speculation, while at the same time systematically fostering the dialogue between the logical rigor and scientific naturalism advocated by the tradition of Analytic Philosophy, on the one hand, and the depth of systematic accounts of human experience offered in the German Idealist, Pragmatist and Phenomenological traditions, on the other hand.

Learning Outcomes

• Traditions: Students gain an advanced comparative perspective on differing styles, schools and systematic approaches in philosophy; students will acquire an advanced understanding of the manifold philosophical traditions that have emerged in its history.
• Values: Students enhance their ability to recognize, appreciate and assess aesthetic, cognitive and ethical value in human thought and accomplishment. 
• Hermeneutics: Students develop transferable strengths in closely reading and methodologically interpreting the most challenging of the greatest works within the history of philosophy, as well as analyzing and presenting complex arguments and ideas with clarity and impact. 
• Research: Graduates demonstrate an ability to independently conduct original research in the discipline requisite for acceptance within a Ph.D. program in Philosophy (or related discipline) at major international universities - and with tangible benefits in many career paths and walks of life.