Subjects
Philosophy
What makes the Cambridge Philosophy course so special?
Philosophy is the study of problems which are ultimate and very general, and which are concerned with the nature of knowledge, reality, human purpose and morality. In universities it is studied in a manner which lays considerable emphasis on precise and careful argument. Although undergraduates in Cambridge read a wide range of philosophical authors the main aim of the course is not to impart information about which author said what: rather, the aim is that the student should acquire the kind of skill in reasoning which will enable her to solve problems of a philosophical character and to think intelligently about abstract questions generally.
Since Philosophy is not normally taught in schools it is not always easy for students to tell whether they are suited to the subject and whether it is suited to them. It is a good idea, of course, to read some Philosophy books before making a decision about the subject; on the Faculty website is
a list of books which give a good introduction to the subject. More generally, if you enjoy marshalling arguments pro and con, or doing maths, or solving puzzles, or doing comprehension exercises (e.g. in English), or trying to define things, or arguing about rather abstract questions, you may find that Philosophy is the right subject for you.
You can study Philosophy at Cambridge for one, two or three years, and it combines well with a variety of other subjects.
Why choose Newnham for Philosophy?
Newnham has a small but lively community of philosophers and people with an active interest in philosophy and allied disciplines.
The college is conveniently situated just across the road from the Philosophy Faculty.
How many students take Philosophy at Newnham and what options do they choose?
We aim to have one or two students in each year reading Philosophy at Newnham.
Undergraduates are normally expected to write one essay each week, and some idea of the philosophical topics studied can be got from a list of typical essay titles: Is it everyone’s duty to promote happiness? Is justice the same thing as fairness? What is the relation between justice and equality? Is knowledge the same thing as true belief? Must every event have a cause? Is reincarnation a logical possibility? How would you define the word “definition”? What is a law of logic?
How will I be taught at Newnham?
Lectures take place in the Philosophy Faculty, together with Philosophy students from all other colleges. Supervisions (small group teaching) will be arranged by your Director of Studies, and, depending upon the particular topic, may take place at Newnham or at another college.
Can you tell me more about the Philosophy Fellows?
Among the Fellows, apart from the Director of Studies, Dr Sophia Connell (Ancient Philosophy), are: the former Principal, Professor Onora O’Neill (Ethics; Political Philosophy and Philosophy of Immanuel Kant); Professor Liba Taub (History and Philosophy of Science) and Professor Katarzyna Jaszczolt (Philosophy of Language).
What jobs do Newnham Philosophy students go on to do?
Newnham Philosophy students have gone into a great variety of fields after graduating: for example law, management consultancy, banking, secondary school teaching, the civil service, working for NGOs and charities, European Union.
Are there any A-level subjects that are particularly useful?
Some applicants will have taken Arts A-levels, some Sciences and some a combination. Logical disciplines such as foreign and ancient languages, maths and sciences are highly recommended as a preparation for studying philosophy at University. It is not necessary for students to have studied any Philosophy before reading the subject at Cambridge, and Part IA of the Tripos is taught on the assumption that they have not done so. We do hope that applicants will have done some reading on their own, especially because this can help them decide whether Philosophy is the right subject for them.
Can I take a gap year?
Yes. We have no preference about this. However, if you do take a gap year we would like it to be a well-structured and constructive use of your time.
How should I prepare for interview at Newnham?
A good way to prepare, if you are called for interview is to have a look at some philosophical debates, such as the free will problem. Decide what the right answer is and try to defend it from a series of systematic attacks. This is the sort of discussion that is likely to take place. If you have mentioned any philosophers or philosophical works in your personal statement be prepared to discuss them.
Where can I find out more?
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