Philosophy and Economics, MA (Hons)

Philosophy has been central to Western intellectual life for over 2,500 years, shaping our understanding of the world and human interactions. It equips individuals with essential skills for addressing profound questions through clear, systematic thinking, emphasizing argument, critical inquiry, rigorous reasoning, and precise expression.At the University of Edinburgh, with its rich history—including alumni like Adam Ferguson and Sir William Hamilton—the philosophy department is one of the UK's largest, hosting prominent speakers and offering programs that cover foundational Western philosophy while allowing specialization. Economics examines the incentives influencing decisions by individuals, businesses, governments, and societies, analyzing outcomes such as economic fluctuations, growth, unemployment, and crises. Together, studying philosophy and economics develops skills for engaging in debates, fostering deep philosophical insight and quantitative expertise.