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Tom Wheeler '10 Tom came from Seattle, Wash., to study at GMC. He will graduate in spring 2010 with a double major in philosophy and environmental studies. Why did you choose GMC? I remember choosing GMC because I was excited at the prospect of an "environmental liberal arts college." While I took a risk coming here (some 3,000 miles of a risk), the school has exceeded all my expectations. Why do you/should someone study philosophy? Philosophy's roots are in philia and sophia, the "love of wisdom." I have always been interested in philosophy, though I didn't know it at the time. I have been thinking about the whys/hows since a very early age. I think the proof of philosophy's influence/importance comes from the fact that most major branches of study in college (the sciences, economics, psychology) all are derived from philosophy. It is the root of knowledge. What was your favorite philosophy class? My favorite class has been Ethical Theories with Joe Markowski. My ethical thought grew greatly in that semester. Favorite philosophers/works of philosophy? Animal ethics/continental philosophy/Albert Camus. Any advice for philosophy majors? Take all and any philosophy classes offered. As I think back upon my time here, the experiences/classes I have cherished most have been philosophy classes. What are your plans for the future? What will you "do with" your degree? Most likely law school, but don't be surprised if I become a judge or a political philosopher. Are you doing/have you done a senior thesis in philosophy? I am writing a paper for my environmental studies major on the ability of animal advocates to bring cases in court. This is a topic that my interest in philosophy drove me to.
