Image(s) courtesy History of Science Collections, University of Oklahoma Libraries; copyright the Board of Regents of the University of Oklahoma.
A Note for Pre-Law Students
The skills and habits of reasoning required in the study and practice of law are more similar to those skills and habits used in philosophy than to those used in any other single disciple. Some of these are:
- careful, critical reading of texts
- analysis of arguments
- construction of arguments
- refutation of arguments
- gathering of evidence
- precise and clear writing
- understanding of ethical principles
The LSAT places emphasis on correct reasoning. Courses in logic and critical thinking are especially recommended for students who are interested in pursuing a career in law. But every philosophy course will help in the improvement of reasoning skills. Philosophy majors are routinely among the very top scorers on the LSAT (see here and here).
The study of philosophy will promote one's understanding of the nature of law, of government, and of the theories behind ethical and legal reasoning.
Law school admission records indicate that philosophy majors were more likely to be admitted to law schools than all other humanities majors and business students, and more likely than almost all social scientists. Our majors routinely apply and are admitted to law schools.
Students who are pre-law or studying for law-related professions are recommended to take one or more of the following courses:
- Introduction to Logic
- Critical Reasoning
- Ethical Theory
- Introduction to Social and Political Philosophy
- History of Social and Political Philosophy
- Environmental Ethics
- Epistemology
- Philosophy of Law
