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Which to drop, geography or philosophy?

I've started on 4 alevels (physics, maths, geography and philosophy) with the intention of dropping to 3. I know I want to pursue physics and so the extra subject is more about getting a good grade/ enjoyment. (preferably an A). I did GCSE geography and almost got a 9, however my enjoyment of the subject can vary depending on subtopic. Overall I find geography to be alright, I dont necessarily dislike it, but I'm not passionate about it either. (Although I do love some good coastal processes!). Philosophy is a new subject I've never done before but seems interesting to me. I like to argue, think about deep things, and my GCSEs in similar subjects where good too. (8 in RE, 8 in English language, 1 mark off a 7 in English lit). Admittedly it is a little hard sometimes, but I'd assume with time and teaching it would get easier, and its an enjoyable kind of difficulty if that makes sense? Like stretching my mind in a fun way. I would obviously continue with the lessons for a couple of weeks or so to get a better feel for them, but if I like them both then I really don't know which one to drop. I want to do well but I dont want to resent the subject because I dont like/enjoy it enough. If I really cant decide in a few weeks time then which one would be best to drop?

Reply 1

Philosophy will likely be the one people will most commonly say 'drop that one', but personally I'd advise keeping at it - understanding how to debate effectively is going to be a huge help in education generally, more so if you move beyond degree level; critical thinking skills, ethics, questioning yourself and others, considering diverse perspectives, communication - all are vital skills within STEM, especially at high levels

Reply 2

there isn’t really any benefit of dropping philosophy over geography or geography over philosophy
but i’d recommend at looking at these joint physics courses
physics and philosophy
and
geophysics
i know you plan on doing a physics degree but if you think you may be remotely interested in physics and philosophy, then drop geography
or if you think you may be interested in geophysics, then drop philosophy

Reply 3

Original post
by Daniel - UOS
Philosophy will likely be the one people will most commonly say 'drop that one', but personally I'd advise keeping at it - understanding how to debate effectively is going to be a huge help in education generally, more so if you move beyond degree level; critical thinking skills, ethics, questioning yourself and others, considering diverse perspectives, communication - all are vital skills within STEM, especially at high levels

thank you, I'll bare that in mind!

Reply 4

Original post
by Iqster
there isn’t really any benefit of dropping philosophy over geography or geography over philosophy
but i’d recommend at looking at these joint physics courses
physics and philosophy
and
geophysics
i know you plan on doing a physics degree but if you think you may be remotely interested in physics and philosophy, then drop geography
or if you think you may be interested in geophysics, then drop philosophy

thanks I'll have a look
Original post
by jencollins
I've started on 4 alevels (physics, maths, geography and philosophy) with the intention of dropping to 3. I know I want to pursue physics and so the extra subject is more about getting a good grade/ enjoyment. (preferably an A). I did GCSE geography and almost got a 9, however my enjoyment of the subject can vary depending on subtopic. Overall I find geography to be alright, I dont necessarily dislike it, but I'm not passionate about it either. (Although I do love some good coastal processes!). Philosophy is a new subject I've never done before but seems interesting to me. I like to argue, think about deep things, and my GCSEs in similar subjects where good too. (8 in RE, 8 in English language, 1 mark off a 7 in English lit). Admittedly it is a little hard sometimes, but I'd assume with time and teaching it would get easier, and its an enjoyable kind of difficulty if that makes sense? Like stretching my mind in a fun way. I would obviously continue with the lessons for a couple of weeks or so to get a better feel for them, but if I like them both then I really don't know which one to drop. I want to do well but I dont want to resent the subject because I dont like/enjoy it enough. If I really cant decide in a few weeks time then which one would be best to drop?

Overall it sounds like you're a lot more engaged with philosophy which I think suggests you should stick with it :smile:

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