By Leigh Dawson
Philosophy, in the sense of critical thinking and structured reasoning, is an essential ingredient for the practice and study of law, according to a graduate of The University of Notre Dame Australia’s School of Law Fremantle, Justin Keogh.
Mr Keogh, an articled clerk at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for Western Australia, says the disciplines of philosophy and ethics, taught to all undergraduate students at Notre Dame as part of the university’s core curriculum, encourage abstract thinking and academic rigour, as well as challenging a person’s understanding of morality.
“While the content of philosophy has some cross-over, particularly in jurisprudence, the skills acquired from its study are critical for identifying the heart of an argument, structuring a coherent response and exploring a viable solution. It goes without saying that these skills are not just relevant to law,” Mr Keogh, also a former Sessional Tutor in the University’s School of Philosophy & Theology, said.
“Ethics (moral philosophy) is even more applicable. An appreciation of ethics is essential for understanding concepts relating to justice, fairness and equality; concepts central to most systems of law. Further, it is this appreciation, sometimes innate, that draws many people to seek out a career in law in the first place.”
Established on the principle of growing each individual personally, professionally and spiritually through its Objects, Notre Dame students have the ability to actively participate in the developing culture of campus life, in the classroom, through volunteering initiatives, religious pursuits and formation, and in a number of student clubs and societies.
“By participating in the campus life you associate with like-minded people; many of whom will become close friends,” Mr Keogh said.
“You enter a space where you can practise the skills you are taught in class in a safe and supportive environment and have the opportunity to create a legacy that will exist on campus long after you leave.”
Dean of the School of Law Fremantle, Professor Doug Hodgson, says Notre Dame’s law students take practical courses such as advocacy, alternative dispute resolution and ethics, where they are taught how to act in the courtroom and ways to deal with ethical challenges that may arise throughout their careers.
“The Law School prepares students for exciting careers in a variety of fields, such as law, politics, government, business and education, through innovative course electives like Aviation Law and Social Media and Law and a host of others,” Professor Hodgson said.
“These are likely significant contributors to the Notre Dame School of Law having a 90 per cent graduate employment rate, according to the 2015 Good Universities Guide. Our graduates lead by example in their careers with confidence, knowing that a Notre Dame degree delivers the ability to think critically; to act justly; and to serve humanity with dignity and charity.”