Philosophy

The Course

Cambridge University has an especially distinguished place in the history of 20th-century philosophy. It was here, in the early years of the century, that Bertrand Russell, G.E.Moore, Ludwig Wittgenstein, Frank Ramsey and others developed the analytic style of philosophy that is now prominent throughout the world. The Faculty of Philosophy at Cambridge retains a strong commitment to this analytic style, though this does not preclude active study and teaching of the history of philosophy from Socrates to Nietzsche, and of such subjects as aesthetics and political philosophy.

Students who come to Cambridge to study philosophy take the Philosophy ‘Tripos’, or course. This is divided into three parts - Part IA, Part IB, and Part II - each of which takes a year; so a student can progress through all three during an undergraduate course. As with many Cambridge courses, it is also possible to take each part separately, and thus combine the study of philosophy with that of another subject.

More information is available from the Philosophy Department's website at www.phil.cam.ac.uk.

Studying Philosophy at Clare

Applicants for admission to Clare to study Philosophy have to compete for places against all other applicants for admission to Clare. The College tries to aim for an overall Arts-Science balance, and there is no quota of places for philosophy students. We usually make between one and three offers in Philosophy each year. The Director of Studies ensures that students have supervisions in addition to the lectures and seminars organised by the Faculty.

Admissions Requirements and Interviews

Offers for studying Philosophy at Clare are based on A2 level (or equivalent qualifications). A typical offer would be A*AA at A2 level or 7,7,6 (40+ overall) in the IB or the equivalent in other educational systems. No particular A2 level subjects are required. Offers are made after applicants have been interviewed and taken a short written test. This test lasts for one hour and is intended to be an aptitude test; it is not a test of an applicant’s knowledge of the subject.

Fellows in Philosophy

Dr Tim Lewens (right) Senior University Lecturer in History and Philosophy of Science. His research lies in the Philosophy of Biology and Medical Ethics.
Professor Tim Smiley Emeritus Professor of Philosophy.