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BA in Philosophy at Maharaja Purna Chandra (Autonomous) College
Mayurbhanj, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is Philosophy at Maharaja Purna Chandra (Autonomous) College Mayurbhanj?
This Philosophy program at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College focuses on cultivating critical thinking, logical reasoning, and a nuanced understanding of fundamental human questions. It delves into diverse philosophical traditions, from ancient Indian and Western thought to contemporary issues, preparing students for intellectual pursuits and ethical leadership. In India, philosophical inquiry is increasingly valued in diverse fields requiring analytical and ethical decision-making.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for curious minds seeking to explore foundational questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, and mind. It''''s suitable for fresh graduates aspiring to careers in teaching, research, civil services, or journalism. It also benefits individuals looking to enhance their analytical and argumentative skills, providing a robust intellectual framework for any profession requiring deep thought and ethical judgment.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect strong analytical and problem-solving skills, highly valued in India''''s competitive job market. Career paths include academia, civil services (UPSC/OPSC), journalism, law, and ethical consulting. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15+ LPA in relevant sectors. The program provides a solid foundation for further studies, including MA, MPhil, and PhD.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Philosophical Concepts and Logic- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with introductory texts and lectures on Indian and Western philosophy and formal logic. Practice deductive reasoning exercises and actively participate in class discussions to solidify understanding. Form study groups to debate complex ideas and clarify doubts, building a strong conceptual foundation early on.
Tools & Resources
Russell''''s ''''Problems of Philosophy'''', Copi''''s ''''Introduction to Logic'''', Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Develops analytical rigor and clear argumentation, essential for any career requiring critical thinking, research, or persuasive communication, including civil services or academic roles.
Enhance Academic Writing and Communication- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing precise and coherent academic writing skills through regular essay assignments and philosophical argument construction. Seek feedback from professors on your papers. Participate in debates and presentations to refine verbal communication, essential for conveying complex philosophical ideas effectively.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Purdue OWL, Philosophy journals (e.g., Journal of Indian Philosophy), College writing center
Career Connection
Crucial for research, teaching, journalism, and any role requiring articulate expression and logical presentation of ideas, boosting employability in various sectors.
Cultivate Interdisciplinary Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond the syllabus, explore readings that connect philosophy with other disciplines like psychology, political science, and literature, as many GE courses facilitate. This broadens your perspective and allows for richer philosophical analysis. Join college clubs focused on current affairs or humanities discussions.
Tools & Resources
The Economic and Political Weekly (EPW), Psychology Today, TED Talks on humanities, College debate societies
Career Connection
Fosters a holistic intellectual approach, making you adaptable and insightful for diverse roles in policy analysis, social work, or interdisciplinary research.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Ethical Dilemmas and Applied Philosophy- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in discussions, seminars, and projects related to applied ethics (e.g., environmental ethics, bioethics) and social-political philosophy. Analyze contemporary Indian societal issues through a philosophical lens. Consider joining NGOs or local community initiatives to understand real-world ethical challenges.
Tools & Resources
Ethics & International Affairs journal, Local NGOs focusing on social justice/environment, Documentaries on ethical issues
Career Connection
Prepares you for roles in ethical consulting, journalism focusing on social issues, public policy, and leadership positions requiring moral discernment and decision-making.
Deep Dive into Specialization through Electives- (Semester 3-4)
Carefully select Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) that align with your philosophical interests, whether it''''s symbolic logic, philosophy of science, or existentialism. Utilize online courses or workshops to gain deeper insights into chosen areas, building specialized knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Coursera/edX philosophy courses, Specialized philosophy forums (e.g., Reddit''''s r/philosophy), Advanced textbooks in DSE areas
Career Connection
Develops expertise in specific philosophical domains, which can be leveraged for advanced academic pursuits, specialized research, or analytical roles in think tanks.
Network with Faculty and Attend Guest Lectures- (Semester 3-4)
Actively engage with your philosophy professors for guidance on research interests and career paths. Attend guest lectures, departmental seminars, and conferences (if organized) to gain exposure to different philosophical perspectives and network with scholars, broadening your academic horizons.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards for events, University seminar series, LinkedIn for academic connections
Career Connection
Provides mentorship, opens doors to research opportunities, and helps identify potential career paths, particularly in academia or research institutions.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Independent Research and Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
Identify a specific philosophical problem or theme that deeply interests you and work towards a robust research paper or dissertation (if part of curriculum or for MA application). This involves extensive reading, critical analysis, and original argumentation. Seek faculty mentorship for this capstone project.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Project MUSE, Online research databases, Reference management software (e.g., Zotero), Academic advisors
Career Connection
Develops advanced research skills, crucial for postgraduate studies, academic careers, policy analysis, and any role requiring in-depth investigative and analytical abilities.
Prepare for Post-Graduation and Career Pathways- (Semester 5-6)
Start preparing for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, OPSC, NET/JRF, or entrance exams for MA/MPhil. Tailor your resume to highlight analytical, ethical reasoning, and communication skills. Explore internship opportunities in journalism, publishing, or NGOs to gain practical exposure.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/OPSC previous year papers, Online coaching platforms (if applicable), Career counseling services, Internship portals
Career Connection
Directly links academic learning to specific career outcomes, preparing you for immediate employment or advanced education, significantly enhancing placement prospects.
Develop Advanced Language and Argumentation Skills- (Semester 5-6)
Engage in advanced textual analysis of complex philosophical works, focusing on identifying underlying assumptions and evaluating arguments. Practice constructing nuanced counter-arguments and defending your own positions in formal and informal settings, honing your persuasive abilities.
Tools & Resources
Classic philosophical texts (Kant, Wittgenstein), Debate clubs, moot court (if interdisciplinary), Workshops on advanced rhetoric
Career Connection
Refines advanced communication and critical reasoning, making you a strong candidate for roles in law, advocacy, public relations, and high-level strategic planning.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 pass or equivalent examination from CHSE, Odisha or other recognized boards.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 156 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHIC1 | Indian Philosophy-I | Core | 6 | Introduction to Indian Philosophy, Carvaka School, Jainism: Anekantavada, Syadvada, Buddhism: Four Noble Truths, Ksanikavada, Nyaya Vaisesika: Pramanas, Padarthas |
| PHIC2 | Logic and Scientific Method | Core | 6 | Basic Logical Concepts: Proposition, Argument, Inference, Categorical Propositions: Quality, Quantity, Distribution, Categorical Syllogism: Rules, Figures, Moods, Informal Fallacies: Relevance, Ambiguity, Scientific Method: Hypothesis, Observation, Experimentation |
| AECC1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies, Natural Resources: Renewable and non-renewable, Ecosystems: Structure, function, types, Biodiversity and its conservation, Environmental pollution and control measures |
| VEC1 | Indian Constitution | Value Added Course | 4 | Constitutional development in India, Preamble, Salient Features, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union and State Government |
| GE1 | Political Theory | Generic Elective | 6 | Introduction to Political Theory, Concepts: State, Sovereignty, Power, Rights: Natural, Moral, Legal, Liberty: Negative and Positive, Justice: Theories and Dimensions |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHIC3 | Indian Philosophy-II | Core | 6 | Sankhya: Prakriti, Purusa, Evolution, Yoga: Astanga Yoga, Cittavrtti Nirodha, Purva Mimamsa: Dharma, Sabdapramana, Advaita Vedanta: Brahman, Maya, Moksha, Visistadvaita: Ramanuja''''s critique of Maya |
| PHIC4 | Ethics | Core | 6 | Introduction to Ethics: Moral and Non-moral actions, Normative Ethics: Deontology, Consequentialism, Virtue Ethics, Meta Ethics: Cognitivism, Non-cognitivism, Applied Ethics: Euthanasia, Capital Punishment, Animal Rights, Theories of Punishment: Retributive, Deterrent, Reformative |
| AECC2 | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Introduction to Communication, Types of Communication, Grammar and Vocabulary, Writing Skills: Paragraph, Essay, Report, Oral Communication: Presentation, Group Discussion |
| VEC2 | Personality Development | Value Added Course | 4 | Self-awareness and Self-esteem, Goal Setting and Time Management, Communication Skills: Verbal and Non-verbal, Stress Management and Emotional Intelligence, Leadership and Teamwork |
| GE2 | General Psychology | Generic Elective | 6 | Introduction to Psychology: Nature and Scope, Methods of Psychology: Observation, Experimentation, Sensation and Perception: Vision, Hearing, Attention, Learning: Classical, Operant, Observational, Motivation and Emotion: Theories, Types |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHIC5 | History of Western Philosophy-I (Ancient and Medieval) | Core | 6 | Pre-Socratic Philosophers: Thales, Anaximander, Heraclitus, Socrates: Socratic method, Virtue is Knowledge, Plato: Theory of Forms, Ideal State, Aristotle: Causality, Form and Matter, Ethics, Medieval Philosophy: St. Augustine, St. Thomas Aquinas |
| PHIC6 | Philosophy of Religion | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Philosophy of Religion, Origin of Religion: Animism, Fetishism, Manaism, Foundations of Religious Belief: Reason, Faith, Revelation, Problem of Evil: Logical, Evidential, Religious Language: Cognitive, Non-cognitive theories |
| PHIC7 | Social and Political Philosophy | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Social and Political Philosophy, Political Ideologies: Liberalism, Marxism, Socialism, Equality: Types and Dimensions, Justice: Distributive, Procedural, Rights and Duties: Natural, Moral, Legal |
| SEC1 | Logical Reasoning | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Inductive and Deductive Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning: Analogies, Classification, Non-Verbal Reasoning: Series, Mirror Image, Analytical Reasoning: Puzzles, Blood Relations, Decision Making and Problem Solving |
| GE3 | Principles of Macroeconomics | Generic Elective | 6 | National Income: Concepts and Measurement, Consumption and Investment Functions, Money: Functions, Demand, Supply, Inflation: Causes, Effects, Control, Fiscal and Monetary Policies |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHIC8 | History of Western Philosophy-II (Modern) | Core | 6 | Rationalism: Descartes (Methodic Doubt), Spinoza (Substance), Leibniz (Monads), Empiricism: Locke (Tabula Rasa), Berkeley (Esse est percipi), Hume (Skepticism), Kant: Critical Philosophy, Synthetic A Priori Judgments, Post-Kantian Idealism, Analytic Philosophy beginnings |
| PHIC9 | Psychological Foundation of Human Behaviour | Core | 6 | Introduction to Psychology: Schools of Thought, Methods in Psychology: Experimental, Correlational, Sensation and Perception: Sensory Modalities, Gestalt Principles, Learning Theories: Classical Conditioning, Operant Conditioning, Motivation: Theories of Needs, Emotions: Components |
| PHIC10 | Continental Philosophy | Core | 6 | Phenomenology: Husserl''''s Epoché, Intentionality, Existentialism: Kierkegaard, Heidegger, Sartre (Freedom, Anguish), Hermeneutics: Gadamer, Ricoeur, Post-structuralism: Foucault, Derrida, Critical Theory: Frankfurt School |
| SEC2 | Critical Thinking | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Concept and Importance of Critical Thinking, Elements of Thought: Purpose, Question, Information, Standards of Critical Thinking: Clarity, Accuracy, Precision, Arguments: Analysis, Evaluation, Fallacies in Reasoning |
| GE4 | Social Psychology | Generic Elective | 6 | Introduction to Social Psychology: Scope and Methods, Social Perception and Cognition, Attitudes: Formation, Change, Measurement, Conformity, Obedience, Compliance, Group Processes: Cohesion, Conflict |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHIC11 | Philosophy of Mind | Core | 6 | Mind-Body Problem: Dualism, Materialism, Functionalism, Theories of Mind: Identity Theory, Behaviorism, Consciousness: Nature and Explanations, Personal Identity: Criteria and Theories, Artificial Intelligence and the Mind |
| PHIC12 | Contemporary Indian Philosophy | Core | 6 | Swami Vivekananda: Practical Vedanta, Universal Religion, Mahatma Gandhi: Satyagraha, Ahimsa, Sarvodaya, Rabindranath Tagore: Religion of Man, Education, Sri Aurobindo: Integral Yoga, Evolution of Consciousness, S. Radhakrishnan: Intuition, Idealist View of Life |
| PHIDSE1 | Symbolic Logic | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Basic Concepts: Variables, Constants, Operators, Truth Functions: Truth Tables, Tautology, Contradiction, Quantification: Universal and Existential Quantifiers, Formal Proofs of Validity: Rules of Inference, Axiomatic Systems: Properties, Consistency, Completeness |
| PHIDSE2 | Environmental Philosophy | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Nature and Scope of Environmental Philosophy, Anthropocentrism vs. Non-anthropocentrism, Deep Ecology and Shallow Ecology, Eco-feminism: Connection of women and nature, Environmental Ethics: Rights of nature, Future generations |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHIC13 | Problems of Philosophy | Core | 6 | Epistemology: Nature of Knowledge, Justification, Sources, Metaphysics: Reality, Being, Existence, Substance, Causality: Constant Conjunction, Necessary Connection, Free Will and Determinism: Compatibilism, Incompatibilism, Personal Identity and Self |
| PHIC14 | Philosophy of Language | Core | 6 | Nature of Language: Origin and Function, Theories of Meaning: Denotation, Connotation, Use, Reference and Description: Russell, Strawson, Speech Acts: Austin, Searle, Ordinary Language Philosophy: Wittgenstein |
| PHIDSE3 | Existentialism | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Kierkegaard: Stages on Life''''s Way, Subjectivity, Nietzsche: Will to Power, Superman, Heidegger: Dasein, Being and Time, Sartre: Existence precedes essence, Freedom, Bad Faith, Camus: Absurdity, Revolt |
| PHIDSE4 | Bioethics | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Nature and Scope of Bioethics, Biomedical Ethics: Principles (Autonomy, Beneficence), Informed Consent: Components and Challenges, Euthanasia: Voluntary, Non-voluntary, Arguments, Organ Donation: Ethical and Legal Aspects |
