.png&w=1920&q=75)
BA-HONOURS in Philosophy at City College
Kolkata, West Bengal
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Philosophy at City College Kolkata?
This Philosophy Honours program at City College, Kolkata focuses on developing critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and ethical awareness through the study of diverse philosophical traditions. The curriculum, set by the University of Calcutta, integrates Indian and Western philosophical thought, offering a holistic perspective relevant to understanding complex societal issues in India and globally. It emphasizes logical inquiry, moral reasoning, and socio-political analysis.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students with a keen interest in fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, and reasoning. It attracts fresh graduates seeking entry into academic, research, or civil service careers, as well as individuals aiming to enhance their analytical skills for fields like law, journalism, or public policy. Strong reading comprehension and argumentative skills are beneficial prerequisites.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths in academia, teaching, civil services (UPSC, WBPSC), journalism, and social work. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program fosters intellectual rigor, ethical leadership, and problem-solving abilities crucial for growth trajectories in NGOs, think tanks, and content creation roles within Indian companies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Reading & Comprehension Habit- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with foundational philosophical texts by allocating dedicated time daily. Practice summarizing complex arguments and identifying key concepts. Participate actively in classroom discussions to clarify doubts and articulate your understanding.
Tools & Resources
Calcutta University Library (physical & online resources), Swayam NPTEL (for supplementary lectures on core topics), Peer study groups
Career Connection
Strong comprehension and articulation skills are vital for any career, especially in research, civil services, and content writing, enabling you to grasp and communicate complex ideas effectively.
Master Logical Reasoning and Argumentation- (Semester 1-3)
Focus intensely on formal and informal logic papers. Practice identifying fallacies, constructing valid arguments, and critiquing philosophical positions. Utilize online logic puzzles and exercises to hone analytical precision.
Tools & Resources
A.V. Gangadharan''''s ''''A Textbook of Logic'''', Irving Copi''''s ''''Introduction to Logic'''', Online logic puzzles (e.g., Critical Thinking.org), Debate clubs
Career Connection
This skill is indispensable for competitive exams (UPSC/SSC), law, and any role requiring critical decision-making and persuasive communication, such as policy analysis or journalism.
Engage with Indian Philosophical Traditions- (Semester 1-4)
Delve into the rich heritage of Indian philosophy beyond syllabus requirements. Attend workshops or lectures on Vedanta, Buddhism, or Jainism. Compare and contrast Indian and Western approaches to core problems, writing short analytical essays.
Tools & Resources
Online courses on ''''Ancient Indian Wisdom'''' platforms, Texts by S. Radhakrishnan, M. Hiriyanna, Local philosophical societies in Kolkata
Career Connection
Cultivates a unique perspective highly valued in academia, cultural studies, and roles promoting cross-cultural understanding, relevant for global think tanks and educational initiatives.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Ethical Dilemmas & Applied Philosophy- (Semester 3-5)
Choose SEC and DSE papers focused on Applied Ethics or Contemporary Issues. Research real-world ethical quandaries in India (e.g., environmental ethics, bioethics, social justice). Write opinion pieces or case studies from a philosophical perspective.
Tools & Resources
Journals of Applied Philosophy, Ethics case study databases, Participate in college seminars on current affairs
Career Connection
Develops the ability to analyze and contribute to public policy, NGO work, social activism, and ethical consulting, fields with growing demand in India.
Network with Academics & Explore Research- (Semester 4-5)
Attend guest lectures, departmental seminars, and inter-college philosophy fests. Engage with professors for guidance on advanced topics and potential research areas. Consider assisting a faculty member with a minor research project or literature review.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards for events, Faculty office hours, Researchgate/Academia.edu profiles of scholars
Career Connection
Builds academic connections crucial for higher studies (MA, PhD) and opens doors to research assistantships or entry-level positions in think tanks.
Develop Academic Writing & Presentation Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Regularly write essays, term papers, and critical reviews, seeking detailed feedback from instructors. Practice presenting philosophical concepts clearly and concisely in class. Join debating or public speaking clubs to refine oral communication.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL for academic writing guidelines, Grammarly for proofreading, College debate societies
Career Connection
Essential for success in higher education, competitive exams, journalism, content creation, and any professional role requiring clear and structured communication.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Civil Services / Higher Education- (Semester 5-6)
Begin focused preparation for UPSC Civil Services Exam (Philosophy optional) or entrance exams for MA/PhD programs. Solve previous year papers, join relevant coaching classes if feasible, and structure your study plan around the advanced syllabus.
Tools & Resources
UPSC previous year question papers, Institutes like Vajiram & Ravi (for philosophy optional), Mock tests for MA Philosophy entrances (e.g., JNU, DU)
Career Connection
Directly prepares for highly coveted government jobs and academic careers, which are significant pathways for Philosophy graduates in India.
Undertake a Comprehensive Dissertation/Research Project- (Semester 6)
Choose a specialized topic from your DSEs or an area of personal interest. Conduct thorough literature review, formulate a clear research question, and write a high-quality dissertation under faculty supervision. Aim for original analysis.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Project MUSE (through university access), Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, Faculty mentors
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases independent research capability, critical thinking, and advanced writing skills, enhancing profiles for postgraduate studies, research roles, and even policy analysis.
Explore Interdisciplinary Applications & Internships- (Semester 5-6)
Look for internships with NGOs working on human rights, ethics, or social justice. Explore opportunities in publishing houses or media companies for editorial roles. Connect philosophical insights with current socio-political or technological trends.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, LinkedIn for internship searches, NGO directories in Kolkata, Academic departments of other disciplines for interdisciplinary projects
Career Connection
Broadens career horizons beyond traditional academia, preparing graduates for diverse roles in advocacy, content management, public relations, and ethical advisory positions in India''''s dynamic economy.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 examination pass with 50% marks in aggregate and 45% marks in the subject or related subject at the previous qualifying examination, or 55% marks in the subject at the previous qualifying examination.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHL-A-CC-1-1-TH | Outlines of Indian Philosophy - I | Core | 6 | Introduction to Indian Philosophy, Carvaka, Jainism, Buddhism, Nyaya (Pramanas) |
| PHL-A-CC-1-2-TH | Outlines of Western Philosophy - I | Core | 6 | Origin of Western Philosophy, Plato (Theory of Forms, Knowledge), Aristotle (Causality, Form and Matter), Descartes (Method, Mind-Body Dualism), Spinoza (Substance, Attributes, Modes) |
| AEC-1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Introduction to Environmental Studies, Natural Resources, Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution |
| GEN-1 | Generic Elective - I | Generic Elective | 6 | Selected from another discipline |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHL-A-CC-2-3-TH | Outlines of Indian Philosophy - II | Core | 6 | Samkhya (Prakriti, Purusha), Yoga (Ashtanga Yoga), Vaisheshika (Padarthas), Mimamsa (Sabda), Advaita Vedanta (Brahman, Maya) |
| PHL-A-CC-2-4-TH | Outlines of Western Philosophy - II | Core | 6 | Leibniz (Monadology, Pre-established Harmony), Locke (Empiricism, Primary & Secondary Qualities), Berkeley (Esse est percipi), Hume (Impressions, Ideas, Causality), Kant (Critical Philosophy, Categories) |
| AEC-2 | English Communication / Modern Indian Language (MIL) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Grammar and Composition, Reading Comprehension, Formal Writing, Oral Communication Skills, Language Usage |
| GEN-2 | Generic Elective - II | Generic Elective | 6 | Selected from another discipline |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHL-A-CC-3-5-TH | Indian Ethics | Core | 6 | Karma and Rebirth, Dharma (Pravritti, Nivritti), Purusarthas, Niskama Karma (Bhagavad Gita), Jain Ethics (Anuvrata, Mahavrata) |
| PHL-A-CC-3-6-TH | Western Ethics | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Ethics, Moral and Non-moral Actions, Hedonism (Mill), Deontology (Kant), Virtue Ethics (Aristotle) |
| PHL-A-CC-3-7-TH | Psychology | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Psychology, Methods of Psychology, Sensation and Perception, Learning (Classical, Operant), Memory |
| SEC-A-1 | Skill Enhancement Course - I (Choices: Applied Ethics / Critical Thinking / Human Rights, Gender and Environment) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Ethical Dilemmas, Environmental Ethics, Gender Justice, Human Rights Foundations, Logical Reasoning |
| GEN-3 | Generic Elective - III | Generic Elective | 6 | Selected from another discipline |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHL-A-CC-4-8-TH | Philosophy of Mind | Core | 6 | Mind-Body Problem, Dualism (Substance, Property), Materialism (Behaviorism, Identity Theory), Functionalism, Consciousness |
| PHL-A-CC-4-9-TH | Social and Political Philosophy - I | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Social Philosophy, Individual and Society, Social Class and Caste, Theories of Justice (Rawls), Democracy |
| PHL-A-CC-4-10-TH | Logic | Core | 6 | Nature of Logic, Categorical Propositions, Truth-Functional Logic, Proofs of Validity, Fallacies |
| SEC-A-2 | Skill Enhancement Course - II (Choices: Value Education / Digital Literacy / Swachh Bharat / Yoga) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Ethical Values, Digital Safety, Waste Management, Yoga Philosophy, Civic Responsibility |
| GEN-4 | Generic Elective - IV | Generic Elective | 6 | Selected from another discipline |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHL-A-CC-5-11-TH | Indian Epistemology and Metaphysics | Core | 6 | Pramanas (Perception, Inference, Testimony), Theories of Truth (Satkhyati, Asatkhyati), Concept of Self (Atman, Anatman), Reality (Brahman, Jagat), Liberation (Moksha, Nirvana) |
| PHL-A-CC-5-12-TH | Western Epistemology and Metaphysics | Core | 6 | Sources of Knowledge (Rationalism, Empiricism), Justification of Belief, Mind-Body Theories, Problem of Free Will, Reality and Appearance |
| DSE-A-1 | Discipline Specific Elective - I (Choices: Philosophy of Religion / Applied Ethics / Contemporary Indian Philosophy) | Elective | 6 | Proofs for God''''s Existence, Religious Language, Bioethics, Environmental Ethics, Gandhi, Tagore, Aurobindo |
| DSE-A-2 | Discipline Specific Elective - II (Choices: Philosophy of Mind / Feminism / Aesthetics) | Elective | 6 | Consciousness, Self, Gender and Society, Theories of Art, Beauty and Experience, Feminist Epistemology |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHL-A-CC-6-13-TH | Philosophy of Language / Contemporary Western Philosophy | Core | 6 | Meaning and Reference, Theories of Truth, Analytic and Synthetic, Wittgenstein (Early and Later), Existentialism (Sartre, Heidegger) |
| PHL-A-CC-6-14-TH | Socio-Political Philosophy - II | Core | 6 | Rights and Duties, Liberty and Equality, State and Sovereignty, Globalization and Justice, Secularism |
| DSE-B-1 | Discipline Specific Elective - III (Choices: Philosophy of Science / Environmental Philosophy / Logic) | Elective | 6 | Scientific Method, Falsificationism, Climate Change Ethics, Symbolic Logic, Modal Logic |
| DSE-B-2 | Discipline Specific Elective - IV (Choices: Analytical Philosophy / Metaphysics / Epistemology) | Elective | 6 | Language and Reality, Mind and Body, Free Will and Determinism, Knowledge and Justification, Skepticism |
