BA Global Development and World Philosophies

Philosophy has been a significant activity in every society for several thousand years.

It is a basic aspect of all human cultures to ask “big questions” about the fundamental nature of reality, about what it is to be human, what constitutes a good life, beauty, justice, knowledge, and how to confront and resolve ethical quandaries.

The BA World Philosophies combined degree is one of the only programmes in the world to provide the opportunity to ask these questions and examine answers from a global, cross-cultural, and decolonial perspective. This degree offers rigorous training in the epistemological standpoints, moral philosophical approaches, metaphysical systems, and socio-political thought of a range of Global North and Global South traditions in dialogue with each other. Because of this, the BA World Philosophies programme at SOAS is truly unique and state-of-the-art.

In addition to the ability to think critically and rigorously, studying philosophical traditions from Asia, Africa, the Middle East in dialogue with Continental European and Anglophone traditions enables you to take a broad and comprehensive view of the world and to think more deeply, sensitively, and insightfully about humanity, (in)justice, ethics, and real-world problems.

Why study BA World Philosophies combined degree at SOAS?

• SOAS is ranked 15th in the UK for Arts and Humanities (QS World University Rankings 2023)
• SOAS is ranked 6th in the UK for employment outcomes (QS World University Rankings 2023)
• BA World Philosophies scored above sector in the following categories: teaching quality, learning opportunities, assessment & feedback (NSS 2024)
• We are home to the world’s first ever Decolonising Philosophy Curriculum Toolkit and Handbook
• Our average 20/21 Graduate Outcome Departmental score is 82.85% (HESA)

Graduates from the Department of Religions and Philosophies develop the skills to analyse and communicate ideas in a clear, and comprehensive manner. A degree in philosophy is highly regarded by employers of many kinds. Philosophy teaches the student how to analyse and communicate ideas in a clear, rational and comprehensive manner.

Students of philosophy learn solid argumentation skills and critical analysis: they learn how to learn, how to think, and how to communicate their ideas effectively and persuasively. Graduates develop into well-rounded, mature, thoughtful and articulate employees. The skills of vision, creativity and analytical power being developed through the study of philosophy are key proficiencies which are valuable in many careers and are transferable to a wide range of sectors and roles

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