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Philosophy Personal Statement

Since my first introduction to history and politics at school, I have always been enormously fascinated by its concepts and ideas and as such it was my introduction to the political ideologies of fin de siecle Russia which first awakened my interest in philosophical thought

During my first year at Loreto College I was a member of its Philosophy Club, where I was given the opportunity to engage in discussions and debates on a wide range of philosophical issues such as the nature of reality and truth. I had never before viewed existence from that perspective and my thirst for epistemology and awareness of conceptual architecture intensified. Following this I enrolled onto the OCR AS Theology and Ethics course this year to extend my exploration, it has given me insight into the basis of Greek thought, philosophy of religion and ethical theory and practice. This has further ignited my curiosity and desire to pursue philosophy at a higher level

I have valued the opportunity to explore the different schools of thought and it is immensely exciting to analyse and examine existence and its phenomena and thinking about it for myself, challenging basic assumptions and beliefs and developing my own understanding and critical ability. Philosophy to me is much more than just an area of study, it forms a framework for being and dictates all aspects of existence forming political an social ideologies as well as a moral code of conduct

I feel that studying history has been immensely beneficial both as a subject within itself and also because it incorporates the study of philosophical ideas in their social political and economic context

Furthermore, it has allowed me to develop and improve my analytical, evaluative, interpretative and assessment skills. Politics has been enormously helpful in terms of understanding the conflicts and implementation of philosophical ideas and ideological conceptual models in modern society. Amongst these interests I am also beginning to explore more closely spirituality and the deeper values of the mind and soul

As well as pursuing academic goals I have also been trying to develop and learn in other aspects. I am an active member of the community and I enjoy being involved in charities including working in a local Oxfam bookshop in my spare time. I have a keen interest in politics and last year became a member of a political party. Within college I take part in various groups and clubs which give me much pleasure as well as cultivating my mind. Through my participation in the International Politics and Debating societies I have further developed my understanding of international affairs and relations. The Non-Fiction Book Club has also helped me widen my grasp of issues: for example 'Peacemakers' has given me great insight into the political wrangling after the Great War. This term I have set up a Mental Health Awareness and Support group in conjunction with the counsellor to provide more support and encouragement for the students of the college. I like partaking in public speaking and representing my college as I did last year when I visited the concentration camps in Auschwitz alongside the international Jewish community. That experience had a profound impact on me and has left me searching for a lot of answers

I am aware that studying philosophy at university level will be challenging but I believe that I will have the motivation and dedication to pursue it as an activity.

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