Is Philosophy or Political Science Better for Law School?

//

Jane Flores

When it comes to law school, students often debate between choosing Philosophy or Political Science as their undergraduate major. While both subjects have their own unique benefits, the question remains – which one is better for law school? Let’s delve into the details and find out.

Philosophy for Law School

Philosophy is a subject that teaches students to think critically and logically. It emphasizes on analyzing and evaluating arguments, which is an essential skill for law students. Moreover, philosophy covers a range of topics such as ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, and logic – all of which are relevant to the study of law.

One of the biggest advantages of studying philosophy is that it trains students to articulate their thoughts clearly and concisely. This skill is particularly useful in law school where students are expected to write long essays with complex arguments.

Pros:

  • Develops critical thinking skills
  • Teaches clear communication
  • Covers relevant topics like ethics and logic

Cons:

  • Less emphasis on political systems and institutions
  • Not directly related to legal practice
  • May require extra effort to connect philosophical concepts with legal theories.

Political Science for Law School

Political Science is a subject that focuses on political systems and institutions. It covers topics such as government structures, public policy, international relations, and political ideologies – all of which are directly related to the study of law.

Studying Political Science can provide valuable insights into how laws are created and enforced in different societies. It can also help students understand the political influences that shape legal decisions.

Pros:

  • Covers relevant topics like government structures and public policy
  • Directly related to legal practice
  • Provides insights into political influences on legal decisions

Cons:

  • Less emphasis on critical thinking and logic
  • May not develop skills in clear communication and argumentation
  • May not cover certain philosophical concepts that are relevant to law.

Which One is Better for Law School?

The answer to this question ultimately depends on the individual’s personal interests and strengths. Law schools often look for students who have a diverse academic background, so both Philosophy and Political Science can be valuable choices.

However, if you are interested in developing critical thinking skills and learning how to articulate your thoughts clearly, then Philosophy may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you are interested in understanding political systems and institutions, then Political Science may be a better fit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Philosophy and Political Science have their own unique benefits for law school. It’s important to consider your personal interests and strengths before choosing one over the other. Regardless of which major you choose, remember that law school requires hard work, dedication, and a passion for justice.