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I. What is UGC NET Philosophy?

UGC NET Philosophy is a prestigious national-level examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) under the guidance of the University Grants Commission (UGC). It is designed for postgraduate candidates who aspire to become Assistant Professors or pursue advanced research through the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in the discipline of Philosophy.

Purpose of the Exam

UGC NET Philosophy serves two core purposes:

  • Eligibility for Assistant Professorship: Those who qualify are eligible to apply for teaching positions at colleges and universities across India.

  • Award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF): High-performing candidates receive financial support to pursue doctoral research in Philosophy, including stipends and grants for research work.

This exam is more than just a credential—it’s a stepping stone for individuals passionate about exploring the deepest questions of life, logic, truth, morality, and human existence.

What Does UGC NET Philosophy Test?

The exam is structured to assess both theoretical knowledge and analytical reasoning ability across diverse areas of Philosophy. It doesn’t reward rote learning, but rather evaluates the candidate’s ability to interpret, analyze, and apply philosophical thought to real-world scenarios.

Key Areas Covered:

  • Indian Philosophy: Classical schools like Nyaya, Samkhya, Vedanta, Buddhism, Jainism, and their metaphysical, epistemological, and ethical doctrines.

  • Western Philosophy: Thinkers from Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle to Descartes, Hume, Kant, Hegel, Nietzsche, and beyond.

  • Logic: Syllogistic reasoning, symbolic logic, propositional calculus, and inference systems from both Indian and Western traditions.

  • Ethics & Moral Philosophy: From classical frameworks like Utilitarianism and Kantian ethics to virtue ethics and Indian dharma-based morality.

  • Contemporary Philosophy: Modern movements such as Phenomenology, Existentialism, Logical Positivism, Postmodernism, and Analytic Philosophy.

  • Applied Philosophy: Real-world applications in areas such as political theory, gender studies, environmental ethics, social justice, AI ethics, and bioethics.

The exam ensures that candidates are not only well-versed in historical and modern thought but can also engage critically and constructively with philosophical challenges in society.

Why Philosophy Matters in Today’s World

In a rapidly evolving global environment shaped by technological, political, and ecological upheavals, philosophy is more relevant than ever. Far from being abstract, philosophical inquiry provides the intellectual tools to address pressing ethical dilemmas and shape societal progress.

Real-World Applications of Philosophy:

  • Policy and Governance: Ethical frameworks guide fair legislation, public decision-making, and human rights protections.

  • Environmental Ethics: Deep ecological thinking informs sustainability debates and environmental justice policies.

  • Social Equity: Philosophical theories of justice, liberty, and equality underpin activism, public discourse, and affirmative action.

  • Education and Media: Philosophers contribute to curriculum design, critical media literacy, and civic education.

  • Interdisciplinary Research: Philosophy collaborates with AI, neuroscience, psychology, and cognitive science to explore consciousness, reasoning, and ethics in technology.

Why Should You Pursue UGC NET Philosophy?

Whether you aim to teach, research, write, or work in think tanks, qualifying UGC NET in Philosophy opens up a world of intellectual exploration and professional growth. It validates your expertise, enhances your academic credibility, and connects you to a larger philosophical community across India and the world.

UGC NET Philosophy isn't just a test—it’s a journey toward becoming a thought leader, an educator, and a voice of reason in society.

II. Who Should Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

UGC NET Philosophy is ideal for deep thinkers, academic explorers, and those who wish to engage in teaching, research, or interdisciplinary work involving ethics, logic, consciousness studies, or public reasoning.

Whether you dream of becoming a professor, a researcher in cognitive science, a policy advisor, or a philosophical writer, this exam is your gateway into India's most prestigious academic and research institutions.

Who Is This Exam For?

You should consider applying if:

  • You are passionate about abstract reasoning, ethics, and analyzing the philosophical roots of society, knowledge, and human existence.

  • You are interested in teaching Philosophy at the undergraduate or postgraduate level.

  • You aspire to contribute to academic journals, research projects, or policy think tanks.

  • You want to pursue interdisciplinary research in AI ethics, bioethics, education, public administration, political theory, or logic and reasoning.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

To apply for the UGC NET Philosophy exam, candidates must fulfill the following academic and age-related criteria:

1. Educational Qualifications

  • A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Philosophy or related/allied disciplines such as:
    Comparative Philosophy

    Applied Ethics / Bioethics

    Indian Thought / Cultural Studies

    Logic and Cognitive Science

    Interdisciplinary Humanities (with Philosophy core)

📌 Candidates with degrees in areas like Religious Studies, Theoretical Political Science, or certain Sociology/Anthropology specializations may also be eligible if their coursework substantially covered philosophy.

2. Minimum Marks in Post-Graduation

Category

Minimum Percentage

General / Unreserved (UR)

55% aggregate

OBC (NCL) / SC / ST / PwD / Transgender

50% aggregate

Marks must be calculated on the basis of all subjects in the qualifying PG degree.

3. Final-Year Students Can Apply Provisionally

  • Candidates currently in the final year of their postgraduate program may also apply.

  • They must submit their qualifying degree marks within two years from the date of the result.

Age Limit

Fellowship Type

Age Limit

Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)

Up to 30 years

Assistant Professorship (Only)

No upper age limit

Relaxation in Age Limit for JRF (Up to 5 Years): OBC (NCL), SC, ST, PwD, and Transgender candidates Women applicants Candidates with research experience (maximum 5 years) Armed forces personnel with service record

Summary Checklist: Are You Eligible?

✅ Master’s in Philosophy or related subject

✅ Required percentage as per your category

✅ Age ≤ 30 (for JRF) or no age bar (for Assistant Professorship)

✅ Final-year PG students must submit proof within 2 years


III. UGC NET Philosophy Exam Pattern

The UGC NET Philosophy exam is conducted in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format. It consists of two papers held in a single session, without any break between them.

Both papers are compulsory and comprise objective-type multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

There is no negative marking, which means candidates can attempt all questions without fear of losing marks for incorrect responses.

📘 Quick Overview of the Exam Structure

Paper

Subject

Marks

No. of Questions

Duration

Paper I

General Teaching & Research Aptitude

100

50

1 Hour

Paper II

Philosophy (Core Subject)

200

100

2 Hours

Total Marks: 300

Total Duration: 3 Hours (180 Minutes)

Mode: Online (CBT)

Language Options: English and Hindi

Paper I – General Teaching & Research Aptitude (Common to All NET Subjects)

This paper evaluates a candidate’s ability to teach, reason, and conduct research. It’s designed to test general awareness, comprehension, and mental aptitude, not subject-specific knowledge.
Topics Covered in Paper I:
  • Teaching Aptitude – Teaching methods, learner characteristics, evaluation systems.

  • Research Aptitude – Research types, thesis writing, methods of research, steps of research.

  • Reading Comprehension – Analyzing unseen passages for logical interpretation.

  • Communication – Verbal and non-verbal communication, barriers, effective teaching.

  • Reasoning (Logical & Mathematical) – Analogies, syllogism, number series, puzzles.

  • Data Interpretation – Tables, graphs, charts with numerical analysis.

  • ICT (Information & Communication Technology) – Basics of computers, internet, digital education.

  • People & Environment – Environmental issues, development, climate change.

  • Higher Education System – Governance, policies, structure of Indian higher education.

Weightage: Each of the 50 questions carries 2 marks, totaling 100 marks.

Paper II – Philosophy (Subject-Specific)

This is the core paper focused on your postgraduate specialization – Philosophy. It assesses your in-depth understanding of classical, modern, and contemporary schools of thought, along with your ability to apply logic and ethics to real-world issues.

Key Areas Covered in Paper II:
1. Indian Philosophy
  • Orthodox systems: Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Samkhya, Yoga, Mimamsa, Vedanta

  • Heterodox schools: Buddhism (Madhyamaka, Yogachara), Jainism, Charvaka

  • Philosophical concepts: Moksha, Karma, Atman, Pramanas

2. Western Philosophy
  • Ancient: Socrates, Plato, Aristotle

  • Modern: Descartes, Spinoza, Leibniz, Locke, Hume, Kant

  • Contemporary: Hegel, Nietzsche, Sartre, Husserl, Heidegger

3. Logic
  • Classical and symbolic logic

  • Truth tables, logical fallacies, propositional and predicate logic

  • Deductive and inductive reasoning

4. Epistemology & Metaphysics
  • Theories of knowledge: Rationalism, Empiricism, Constructivism

  • Concepts of reality, substance, being, time, space

5. Ethics
  • Normative ethics: Utilitarianism, Kantian ethics, Virtue ethics

  • Meta-ethics and applied ethics

  • Moral relativism, deontology, consequentialism

6. Political & Social Philosophy
  • Justice, liberty, rights, democracy

  • Feminism, postmodernism, identity, caste and social inequality

7. Contemporary & Applied Philosophy
  • Environmental ethics, philosophy of mind, AI ethics

  • Bioethics, global justice, human rights

Weightage: Each of the 100 questions carries 2 marks, totaling 200 marks.

Exam-Day Format Recap

✔️ The entire test is conducted in one sitting (3 hours)✔️ Both papers consist of MCQs only✔️ There is no sectional time limit – candidates can attempt either paper first✔️ No negative marking encourages students to attempt all questions

IV. UGC NET Philosophy Syllabus at a Glance

The UGC NET Philosophy syllabus is a comprehensive exploration of Indian and Western philosophical traditions, logic, ethics, epistemology, applied philosophy, and contemporary issues. It’s designed to assess both depth of understanding and analytical ability.

Below is a topic-wise breakdown of the syllabus to help aspirants understand what they need to focus on.

1. Indian Philosophy (Astika & Nastika Systems)

This section explores the rich diversity of classical Indian thought, including both orthodox (Astika) and heterodox (Nastika) schools.
Key Areas:
  • Orthodox Schools:
    Nyaya (Logic and epistemology)

    Vaisheshika (Atomism and metaphysics)

    Samkhya (Dualism of Purusha and Prakriti)

    Yoga (Patanjali’s eightfold path)

    Mimamsa (Vedic ritualism and interpretation)

    Vedanta (Advaita, Vishishtadvaita, Dvaita)

  • Heterodox Schools:
    Buddhism (Madhyamaka, Yogachara)

    Jainism (Anekantavada, Syadvada)

  • Core Thinkers:
    Shankaracharya, Ramanuja, Nagarjuna, Buddhaghosa, Udayana, Kumarila Bhatta

Focus: Philosophical doctrines, metaphysical positions, and pramana (means of knowledge).

2. Western Philosophy (Chronological Evolution)

This section tracks Western thought from its Greek origins to postmodern developments.

Key Areas:

  • Ancient Philosophy:
    Plato – Theory of forms, justice, ideal state

    Aristotle – Substance, causality, ethics, logic

  • Medieval Philosophy:
    St. Augustine, St. Thomas Aquinas – Faith-reason synthesis, God’s nature

  • Modern Philosophy:
    Descartes – Methodic doubt, mind-body dualism

    Locke – Empiricism, theory of knowledge

    Kant – Synthetic a priori, categorical imperative

    Hegel – Dialectics, absolute spirit

    Nietzsche – Will to power, critique of morality

  • Contemporary Thinkers:
    Wittgenstein – Language games, meaning

    Heidegger – Being and time

    Sartre – Existentialism and human freedom

    John Rawls – Theory of justice, political liberalism

Focus: Rationalism vs. Empiricism, Existentialism, Phenomenology, Analytic traditions.

3. Logic & Epistemology

A crucial part of the syllabus, this unit explores valid reasoning, structure of arguments, and theories of knowledge.

Logic:

  • Indian logic: Nyaya syllogism (5-part inference)

  • Western classical logic

  • Symbolic logic: truth tables, propositional and predicate logic, quantifiers

Epistemology:

  • Theories of knowledge: Rationalism, Empiricism, Constructivism

  • Truth theories: Correspondence, Coherence, Pragmatic

  • Concepts: Belief, justification, certainty, skepticism

Focus: Argument structure, fallacies, knowledge acquisition and justification.

4. Ethics & Moral Philosophy

This unit tests your grasp over normative and meta-ethical theories from both Western and Indian traditions.

Normative Ethics:

  • Utilitarianism – Bentham, Mill

  • Deontology – Kant’s categorical imperative

  • Virtue Ethics – Aristotle’s moral character

Meta-Ethics:

  • Moral realism vs. anti-realism

  • Subjectivism, emotivism, prescriptivism

  • Ethical relativism

Indian Ethics:

  • Bhagavad Gita – Nishkama Karma, Dharma

  • Gandhi – Ahimsa, satyagraha

  • Buddhism – Eightfold path, compassion, right action

Focus: Ethical dilemmas, real-life applications, cultural perspectives on morality.

5. Philosophy of Mind / Cognitive Science

This growing area connects philosophy with psychology, neuroscience, and AI.

Key Concepts:

  • Consciousness – Qualia, intentionality

  • Mind-Body Problem – Dualism (Descartes), Materialism, Functionalism

  • Theories of mind – Identity theory, eliminative materialism

Indian Contributions:

  • Advaita Vedanta – Consciousness as Brahman

  • Yoga – Chitta and its modifications

  • Buddhist Views – Momentariness, no-self (anatman)

Focus: Integrating metaphysics with cognitive and neuroscientific theories.

6. Political & Social Philosophy

This area explores the nature of society, justice, governance, and identity through both classical and modern lenses.

Key Themes:

  • Social Contract Theories – Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau

  • Justice and Rights – Rawls, Nozick, Ambedkar

  • Liberty and Equality – Classical liberalism, socialism, feminism

  • Indian Political Thought – Gandhi’s Swaraj, Ambedkar on caste, Nehruvian secularism

  • Post-Colonial and Dalit Philosophy

Focus: Applying philosophical frameworks to social structures and governance.

7. Contemporary Issues & Applied Philosophy

This is where philosophy meets everyday life and global challenges.

Topics Include:

  • Environmental Ethics – Deep ecology, sustainability, animal rights

  • Bioethics – Euthanasia, cloning, consent, medical justice

  • AI & Technology Ethics – Responsibility, automation, data privacy

  • Global Justice – Human rights, migration, cosmopolitanism

  • Feminist Philosophy – Gender, identity, care ethics

  • Discourse Ethics – Habermas, communicative action

Focus: Ethical reasoning and philosophical frameworks for modern challenges.

V. Career Scope After UGC NET Philosophy

Clearing the UGC NET Philosophy exam—especially with a JRF (Junior Research Fellowship)—unlocks a wide range of intellectually rewarding and socially impactful career opportunities. It opens doors not only in academia but also in think tanks, ethics boards, policy research, and interdisciplinary scientific fields.

Here’s a closer look at where a UGC NET Philosophy qualifier can go:

1.  Assistant Professor / Lecturer (Universities & Colleges)

One of the most direct outcomes of clearing NET is eligibility for faculty positions in:

  • Central and State Universities

  • Private colleges and deemed-to-be universities

  • Liberal arts institutions

Role Includes:

  • Teaching graduate and postgraduate students

  • Supervising research and academic projects

  • Curriculum development and departmental leadership

NET is a mandatory requirement to become an Assistant Professor in India.

2.  Junior Research Fellow (JRF) / Ph.D. Scholar

With a good JRF rank, candidates receive monthly stipends for pursuing M.Phil./Ph.D. in philosophy and related disciplines.

Benefits:

  • Financial support (approx ₹31,000/month + HRA)

  • Access to top universities and research centers

  • Enhanced scope for academic fellowships and international exchange programs

Ideal for candidates interested in original research, teaching careers, and academic publishing.

3.  Ethics Analyst / Policy Advisor

Philosophy graduates—especially those trained in ethics, logic, and political theory—are in demand in:

  • Ethics Committees (bioethics, AI ethics)

  • Corporate social responsibility (CSR) teams

  • NGOs focused on social justice and sustainability

  • Policy think tanks

Use your philosophical training to evaluate complex ethical dilemmas in public health, law, technology, and governance.

4.  Civil Services & Government Think Tanks

Philosophy is a popular UPSC optional subject for Civil Services Examination (CSE), and several NET-qualified scholars have gone on to:

  • Join IAS, IFS, IRS, or IPS

  • Work as policy researchers in organizations like NITI Aayog, PRS Legislative Research, or Centre for Policy Research

Your training in ethics, logic, and analytical reasoning is crucial for public administration and policy development.

5.  Humanities Research & Cultural Institutes

NET/JRF-qualified scholars can contribute to:

  • Post-doctoral research at institutions like ICPR (Indian Council of Philosophical Research), ICSSR, or international cultural fellowships

  • Projects involving comparative philosophy, translation of philosophical texts, or heritage ethics

This pathway blends academia with public humanities and intercultural exchange.

6. Public Intellectual / Columnist / Author

Philosophy graduates are also:

  • Regular contributors to editorials, essays, and public debates on ethical, cultural, and philosophical issues

  • Involved in academic publishing and open-access philosophy content (YouTube, podcasts, blogs)

Combine classical thought with contemporary relevance and shape public reasoning.

7.  AI Ethics Consultant / Cognitive Science Researcher

In the age of artificial intelligence, philosophy of mind, ethics, and logic are central to:

  • AI safety, algorithmic bias, and fairness

  • Cognitive science experiments and brain-computer interface research

  • Collaborative work with data scientists, neuroscientists, and tech firms

Philosophy isn’t just about ancient thought—it’s powering the future of ethical technology.

Bonus Scope:

  • International scholarships (DAAD, Fulbright, Rhodes)

  • Research assistantships in interdisciplinary centers

  • Philosophy-based startups (ed-tech, ethics consulting)

UGC NET Philosophy is not just a credential—it’s a passport to a meaningful, reflective, and impactful career in both classical and cutting-edge fields. With expert mentorship and strategic preparation, aspirants can unlock limitless possibilities.

VI. How We Help You Crack UGC NET Philosophy

At Dr. Sourav Sir’s Classes, we go beyond rote learning and textbook repetition. Our philosophy course is designed to build deep conceptual clarity, analytical sharpness, and exam-smart techniques—everything you need to crack UGC NET Philosophy with confidence.

Here’s how we empower you step by step:

1. Topic-Wise Live & Recorded Classes

We divide the UGC NET syllabus into manageable weekly modules covering:

  • Indian Philosophy (Nyaya, Vedanta, Buddhism, Jainism)

  • Western Philosophy (Plato to Rawls)

  • Logic, Ethics, and Cognitive Science

  • Applied & Contemporary Philosophy

Live interactive classes + unlimited access to recordings on our app—so you can revise at your pace.

2. PYQ Decoding & 10-Year Trend Analysis

We analyze the last 10 years’ question papers to detect:

  • Frequently asked concepts

  • Topic weightage trends

  • Examiner’s logic and framing style

You don’t just practice previous year questions—you learn why they were asked and how to anticipate future ones.

3. Full-Length Mock Tests + Individual Feedback

We simulate the real exam environment with:

  • Time-bound mock tests

  • Unit-wise mini quizzes

  • Detailed performance analytics

  • Personalized feedback sessions

We track your progress, correct errors early, and build exam temperament.

4. Visual Learning Tools

Philosophy is abstract. That’s why we use:

  • Infographics & Mind Maps – for logic, epistemology, Indian darshanas

  • Comparative Tables – Indian vs. Western thinkers, ethical theories

  • Mnemonic Devices & Flowcharts – for better recall

We make complex ideas simple, visual, and memorable.

5. Case Studies & Current Debates

We train you to connect philosophy to the real world:

  • AI & Ethics – Bias in algorithms, human-AI relationships

  • Climate & Environmental Ethics – Deep ecology, ecofeminism

  • Global Justice & Democracy – Rawls, Amartya Sen, Gandhian thought

Stay current with the philosophical dimensions of today’s major debates.

6. Custom 30/60/90-Day Study Plans

Based on your background and exam date, we offer:

  • Structured Timetables

  • Daily Targets & Weekly Trackers

  • Revision Loops & Time Buffers

You never feel lost—our planners give you direction and discipline.

7. 24×7 Doubt Clearance Support

Got a question at midnight? We’ve got you covered:

  • Telegram Groups & Private Mentoring

  • WhatsApp Support Channels

  • Dedicated Faculty Helpdesk via App

You’re never studying alone—we’re with you, every day, every step.

At Dr. Sourav Sir’s Classes, our mission is not just to help you pass—it’s to help you master.Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced aspirant, our hybrid learning ecosystem adapts to your pace, style, and ambition.

VII. Why Choose Dr. Sourav Sir’s Classes for UGC NET Philosophy?

Choosing the right mentor is half the battle won in a subject as deep and intellectually rich as Philosophy. At Dr. Sourav Sir’s Classes, we bring a proven legacy of results, a contemporary learning approach, and a supportive ecosystem that helps you excel both academically and analytically.

Here’s what makes us the preferred choice for UGC NET Philosophy aspirants across India:

1. 15+ Years of Expertise in UGC NET Philosophy Coaching

Dr. Sourav Sir has guided thousands of students with:

  • Concept-centric teaching tailored to Philosophy’s abstract nature

  • Exam-focused strategy based on years of question analysis

  • A unique ability to simplify complex theories from Indian Darshanas to Modern Continental Thought

You get the benefit of wisdom refined over a decade and a half of teaching.

2. Highest Success Rate in NET/JRF Philosophy

Our alumni are now:

  • Assistant Professors in India’s top universities

  • JRF scholars pursuing Ph.D.s in Philosophy, Ethics, Public Policy, and AI Ethics

  • Mentors themselves, guiding the next generation of philosophy scholars

We measure success not by enrollments, but by the academic impact our students create.

3. Updated Content Aligned with Indian & Global Philosophical Trends

We go beyond the syllabus to include:

  • Contemporary debates – environmental ethics, technology & mind, cognitive science

  • Indian perspectives on modern issues – Gandhian ethics, Buddhist epistemology

  • International scholarship – Rawls, Nussbaum, Foucault, and postcolonial thinkers

Stay updated, stay relevant—with content that evolves with time.

4. Offline + Online Learning Flexibility

Choose your preferred mode of study:

  • Offline Classes at our main center in Kolkata

  • Live Online Batches for students across India

  • Recorded Lectures + Notes Access anytime, anywhere

Whether you're a working professional, a full-time student, or a homemaker—we adapt to your schedule.

5. Total Accessibility via Audio-Video App & Telegram Support

Our student support system includes:

  • Mobile App with all video lectures, notes, and quizzes

  • Telegram Groups for peer discussion, real-time updates, and daily questions

  • Doubt-clearing sessions via call/chat for fast resolution

Your learning never pauses—access help and content 24/7.

6. Personal Mentorship & Academic Guidance

Every student gets:

  • 1-on-1 mentorship calls for academic and emotional support

  • Custom progress reviews and performance plans

  • Support for research writing, paper presentation, and even Ph.D. interview prep

You’re not just a roll number—we track your journey and help shape it.

At Dr. Sourav Sir’s Classes, we don’t just prepare you for an exam—we prepare you for a career in philosophy, with the intellectual, ethical, and practical tools to thrive in today’s complex world.

VIII. Important Books for UGC NET Philosophy Preparation

Preparing for UGC NET Philosophy requires a deep engagement with both classical texts and modern interpretations, as well as smart exam-oriented resources. Here’s a categorized list of the most reliable and widely recommended books for a structured and comprehensive preparation journey:

1. Indian Philosophy

Understand the foundational schools of Indian thought—from Vedanta to Buddhism—through these essential works:

  • A Critical Survey of Indian Philosophy – Chandradhar SharmaA compact yet rich exploration of the six orthodox systems (Nyaya, Samkhya, Vedanta, etc.), heterodox systems like Buddhism and Jainism, and their philosophical positions.

  • Outlines of Indian Philosophy – M. HiriyannaClear, concise, and well-structured—great for beginners and advanced learners alike, covering the evolution of Indian philosophical traditions.

  • Indian Philosophy (Vol. I & II) – S. RadhakrishnanA classic two-volume set from one of India’s greatest thinkers, offering historical depth and interpretative insight into Indian schools and thinkers.

These books provide a balanced mix of historical development, metaphysical doctrines, and logical reasoning rooted in Indian traditions.

2. Western Philosophy

From the pre-Socratics to existentialists and analytical philosophers, these books help navigate the Western canon:

  • A History of Western Philosophy – Bertrand RussellEngaging and detailed, this book offers both narrative and critique—great for understanding context and argument styles.

  • Problems of Philosophy – Bertrand RussellA shorter read that focuses on key questions like knowledge, appearance vs. reality, and inductive reasoning—ideal for epistemology and metaphysics prep.

  • Western Philosophy: An Introduction – Donald PalmerA student-friendly book with illustrations, examples, and simplified discussions of key philosophers and debates.

These texts are great for understanding conceptual foundations and philosophical argumentation styles.

3. Logic & Epistemology

These books build the necessary analytical foundation for Paper II’s logic-based questions:

  • Introduction to Logic – Copi & CohenA gold standard for modern symbolic and formal logic—includes truth tables, fallacies, syllogisms, and propositional logic.

  • A Textbook of Logic – A. K. ChatterjeeMore aligned with Indian university syllabi; includes Indian and Western logic perspectives, suitable for NET-specific application.

Critical for understanding syllogistic reasoning, logical structure, and epistemic justifications.

4. Ethics & Applied Philosophy

This section explores moral theory, meta-ethics, and applied fields like bioethics and political ethics:

  • Ethics: Theory & Practice – S. RamasamyCovers Indian and Western ethics, from utilitarianism to Kantian ethics, and includes examples from real-life moral dilemmas.

  • Contemporary Ethics – Harry J. GenslerIntroduces logic-based analysis in ethics, tackling current issues like abortion, war, and environmental responsibility.

  • Existentialism Is a Humanism – Jean Paul SartreA short but powerful exposition of existentialist thought, explaining freedom, responsibility, and subjective meaning.

Essential for Paper II’s questions on moral frameworks, ethical reasoning, and applied ethics in contemporary debates.

5. UGC NET–Specific Preparation Guides

These books help you simulate the exam pattern, track question trends, and practice MCQs effectively:

  • Trueman’s UGC NET PhilosophyOffers concise theory with extensive topic-wise and unit-wise question banks—ideal for revision.

  • Arihant UGC NET Philosophy GuideStructured for quick concept brushing, includes both Paper I and Paper II strategies.

  • Upkar’s Solved Papers & Practice SetsValuable for solving previous years’ questions and model tests with explanations.

These books are tailored for exam-taking strategies, time management, and topic prioritization.

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

Dr. Sourav Sir’s Classes – Kolkata & Online Pan-India📞 Call/WhatsApp: +91 9836793076

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