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B-A-HONOURS in Philosophy at The Graduate School College for Women, Jamshedpur
East Singhbhum, Jharkhand
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About the Specialization
What is Philosophy at The Graduate School College for Women, Jamshedpur East Singhbhum?
This B.A. (Honours) Philosophy program at The Graduate School College for Women focuses on developing critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and ethical awareness. It delves into diverse philosophical traditions, from ancient Indian and Western thought to contemporary global perspectives. The program equips students with skills highly valued across various sectors, addressing the growing demand for nuanced problem-solvers in the Indian market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any stream seeking to cultivate intellectual depth and strong reasoning abilities. It suits individuals passionate about fundamental questions of existence, knowledge, values, and society. Aspiring civil servants, future researchers, educators, and those looking to build a robust foundation for competitive exams or higher studies in fields like law, journalism, or social sciences will find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in journalism, teaching, public relations, policy analysis, and UPSC/state PSC services. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Philosophy graduates are also highly sought after for advanced degrees in Law, MBA, or M.A. in Philosophy, providing a strong base for academic or professional certifications.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Concepts and Critical Reading- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand foundational philosophical theories and texts. Actively engage in critical reading, identifying arguments, assumptions, and implications. Form study groups to discuss complex ideas and practice explaining concepts in your own words. Utilize online encyclopedias like Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy for deeper understanding.
Tools & Resources
Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, Indian Philosophy portals, College library resources, Study groups
Career Connection
Strong foundational knowledge and critical reading skills are crucial for academic excellence and for competitive exams like UPSC, which test analytical abilities extensively.
Develop Robust Essay Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly practice philosophical essay writing, focusing on clear argumentation, coherent structure, and precise language. Seek feedback from professors and peers to refine your writing. Participate in college-level essay competitions to challenge yourself and improve articulation.
Tools & Resources
Writing center support, Grammarly, Peer review sessions, College writing workshops
Career Connection
Excellent written communication is vital for roles in content creation, journalism, policy drafting, and academic research, enabling effective dissemination of complex ideas.
Engage in Debates and Public Speaking- (Semester 1-2)
Join college debate societies or philosophy clubs. Actively participate in discussions, presenting your views logically and respectfully. This builds confidence, enhances verbal communication, and sharpens on-the-spot critical thinking.
Tools & Resources
College debate society, Philosophy club, Public speaking workshops
Career Connection
Strong oratorical skills are essential for interviews, presentations, and roles in public relations, teaching, and advocacy, preparing you for professional interactions.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Interdisciplinary Connections- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek out connections between Philosophy and other disciplines like Sociology, Political Science, Economics, and Literature. Take Generic Electives strategically to broaden your perspective and understand how philosophical concepts apply to real-world issues. Read articles from various academic journals.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals (JSTOR, PhilPapers), Interdisciplinary seminars, Guest lectures
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary understanding makes you a versatile professional, highly valued in think tanks, research organizations, and policy-making bodies in India that require holistic perspectives.
Participate in National-Level Philosophy Seminars/Conferences- (Semester 3-5)
Attend and, if possible, present papers at regional or national philosophy seminars and conferences. This exposes you to advanced research, current debates, and helps in networking with scholars and peers from other institutions across India.
Tools & Resources
UGC-sponsored seminars, University departmental conferences, Research paper writing guides
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to research opportunities, postgraduate admissions, and potential mentors. Presenting enhances your profile for academic and research-oriented careers.
Undertake Research Projects and Dissertations- (Semester 3-5)
Engage with faculty to identify interesting research topics and contribute to ongoing projects or pursue a minor research project. This hones research methodology, independent study skills, and prepares you for master''''s level dissertations or thesis work.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology workshops, Faculty mentorship, Plagiarism check software
Career Connection
Research experience is invaluable for academic roles, positions in research institutes, and for competitive postgraduate programs both in India and abroad.
Advanced Stage
Prepare Rigorously for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 6)
Focus on General Studies, current affairs, and optional subjects for UPSC, JPSC, or other state PSC examinations. Regularly solve previous year''''s papers, join mock test series, and consider coaching if needed. Philosophy is a popular and scoring optional subject for many civil service aspirants.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/JPSC previous year papers, Coaching institutes, Current affairs magazines, Online test series
Career Connection
This direct preparation streamlines your path into prestigious government services in India, offering stable and impactful career opportunities.
Build a Professional Digital Presence- (Semester 6)
Create a professional LinkedIn profile showcasing your academic achievements, projects, and skills. Engage with philosophical discussions online, share insightful articles, and connect with professionals in fields of interest. This helps in personal branding and job search.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional blogs/websites, Online portfolios
Career Connection
A strong digital presence is crucial for job searches, professional networking, and establishing credibility in the modern Indian job market across various sectors.
Seek Mentorship for Career Guidance- (Semester 6)
Identify and connect with alumni or faculty members who have pursued careers relevant to your interests (e.g., civil services, law, journalism, academia). Seek their advice on career paths, skill development, and networking strategies specific to the Indian professional landscape.
Tools & Resources
Alumni network portals, Faculty office hours, Career counseling services
Career Connection
Mentorship provides invaluable insights, guidance, and potential leads for internships or job opportunities, helping you navigate your career transition effectively.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 pass from a recognized board (general university admission criterion)
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC-1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies, Natural Resources and Associated Problems, Ecosystems and their functions, Biodiversity and its conservation, Environmental Pollution and control measures |
| CC-1 | Indian Philosophy I | Core Course | 6 | Nature of Indian Philosophy, Carvaka School of Thought, Jainism: Anekantavada, Syadvada, Buddhism: Four Noble Truths, Ksanikavada, Nyaya: Pramanas, God, Liberation, Vaisesika: Padarthas, Atomism |
| CC-2 | History of Western Philosophy I | Core Course | 6 | Early Greek Philosophy: Thales, Anaximander, Plato: Theory of Forms, Knowledge, Aristotle: Causation, Form and Matter, Descartes: Methodic Doubt, Cogito Ergo Sum, Spinoza: Substance, Attributes, Modes, Leibniz: Monadology, Pre-established Harmony |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective I (from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 6 | Subjects vary as per choice from Psychology, History, Political Science, etc. |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC-2 | English Communication / MIL Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Theories of Communication, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Grammar and Vocabulary, Non-verbal Communication |
| CC-3 | Indian Philosophy II | Core Course | 6 | Samkhya: Prakrti, Purusa, Evolution, Yoga: Ashtanga Yoga, Cittavritti Nirodha, Mimamsa: Sabda, Apurva, Dharma, Advaita Vedanta (Sankara): Brahman, Maya, Atman, Visistadvaita Vedanta (Ramanuja): Brahman, Jiva, Jagat |
| CC-4 | History of Western Philosophy II | Core Course | 6 | Locke: Empiricism, Primary and Secondary Qualities, Berkeley: Subjective Idealism, Esse Est Percipi, Hume: Skepticism, Causality, Self, Kant: Critical Philosophy, Transcendental Aesthetic, Kant: Transcendental Analytic, Categories, Kant: Moral Philosophy, Categorical Imperative |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective II (from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 6 | Subjects vary as per choice from Psychology, History, Political Science, etc. |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-5 | Ethics | Core Course | 6 | Nature and Scope of Ethics, Moral and Non-Moral Actions, Theories of Morality: Kantian Ethics, Utilitarianism, Moral Responsibility, Rights and Duties, Virtue Ethics: Aristotle, Indian Ethics (Karma, Dharma) |
| CC-6 | Logic I (Western) | Core Course | 6 | Nature of Logic, Deductive and Inductive Reasoning, Categorical Propositions, Square of Opposition, Categorical Syllogism: Rules and Fallacies, Symbolic Logic: Truth Functions, Truth Tables, Methods of Induction: Mill''''s Methods, Proof of Validity (Formal Proof of Validity) |
| CC-7 | Philosophy of Religion | Core Course | 6 | Nature and Scope of Philosophy of Religion, Proofs for the Existence of God: Ontological, Cosmological, Teleological, Problem of Evil, Religious Language: Cognitive, Non-Cognitive, Moksha and Nirvana, Karma and Rebirth |
| SEC-1 | Critical Thinking | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Identifying Arguments and Conclusions, Deductive and Inductive Reasoning, Common Fallacies in Reasoning, Cognitive Biases and Heuristics, Problem Solving and Decision Making |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective III (from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 6 | Subjects vary as per choice from Psychology, History, Political Science, etc. |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-8 | Social and Political Philosophy (Western) | Core Course | 6 | Nature of Social and Political Philosophy, Social Contract Theories: Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Justice: Plato, Aristotle, Rawls, Democracy, Liberty, Equality, Authority and Power, Rights and State |
| CC-9 | Logic II (Indian) | Core Course | 6 | Nature of Indian Logic, Anumana (Inference), Pramanas: Pratyaksha (Perception), Upamana (Comparison), Pramanas: Sabda (Testimony), Arthapatti (Postulation), Hetvabhasa (Fallacies of Inference), Buddhist Logic: Apoha theory, Jain Logic: Syadvada and Nayavada |
| CC-10 | Contemporary Indian Philosophy | Core Course | 6 | Swami Vivekananda: Practical Vedanta, Mahatma Gandhi: Satyagraha, Ahimsa, Sri Aurobindo: Integral Yoga, Evolution, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan: Intuition, Religious Experience, J. Krishnamurti: Freedom from the Known, B.R. Ambedkar: Annihilation of Caste, Dhamma |
| SEC-2 | Yoga Philosophy (or Art and Culture) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Patanjali Yoga Sutras: Core Principles, Ashtanga Yoga: Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, Samadhi, Types of Yoga: Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective IV (from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 6 | Subjects vary as per choice from Psychology, History, Political Science, etc. |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-11 | Continental Philosophy | Core Course | 6 | Phenomenology: Husserl''''s Method, Existentialism: Kierkegaard, Sartre, Heidegger, Hermeneutics: Gadamer, Ricoeur, Structuralism and Post-structuralism, Foucault: Power/Knowledge, Discourse, Derrida: Deconstruction, Différance |
| CC-12 | Philosophy of Science | Core Course | 6 | Nature of Scientific Inquiry, Scientific Method: Induction and Deduction, Falsification: Popper''''s Philosophy of Science, Theory-ladenness of Observation, Realism vs. Anti-Realism in Science, Kuhn: Paradigms and Scientific Revolutions |
| DSE-1 (Option A) | Philosophy of Mind | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Mind-Body Problem: Dualism, Materialism, Identity Theory, Functionalism, Eliminative Materialism, Consciousness: Qualia, Hard Problem, Intentionality, Mental Causation, Artificial Intelligence and the Mind |
| DSE-2 (Option A) | Philosophy of Language | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Meaning, Reference, Sense, Speech Acts: Austin, Searle, Ordinary Language Philosophy, Analytic Philosophy: Frege, Russell, Wittgenstein: Language Games, Holism and Indeterminacy of Translation |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-13 | Philosophy of Art / Aesthetics | Core Course | 6 | Nature of Art and Beauty, Aesthetic Experience: Croce, Dewey, Theories of Art: Mimetic, Expressive, Formalist, Artistic Creation and Interpretation, Indian Aesthetics: Rasa Theory, Dhvani Theory, Art and Morality |
| CC-14 | Philosophy of Education | Core Course | 6 | Nature and Scope of Philosophy of Education, Idealism and Education, Naturalism and Education, Pragmatism and Education, Existentialism and Education, Critical Pedagogy and Social Justice |
| DSE-3 (Option A) | Political Philosophy (Indian) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Kautilya: Arthashastra, Statecraft, Gandhi: Swaraj, Ahimsa, Satyagraha, Ambedkar: Social Justice, Democracy, Equality, Nehru: Secularism, Democracy, Lohia: Four-pillar State, Decentralization, Sarvodaya, Integral Humanism |
| DSE-4 (Option A) | Feminism | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Patriarchy and Gender, Liberal Feminism: Equal Rights, Radical Feminism: Patriarchy as Root Cause, Marxist Feminism: Capitalism and Gender, Postmodern Feminism: Deconstruction of Gender, Intersectional Feminism, Ecofeminism |
