Philosopher

Philosophers, historians and political scientists conduct research into the nature of human experience and existence, phases or aspects of human history, and political structures, movements and behaviour. They document and report findings to inform and guide political and individual action.

• exploring (through reasoning) general causes, principles and meanings of the world, human action, experience and existence, and interpreting and developing philosophical concepts and theories;
• consulting and comparing primary sources, such as original and contemporary records of past events, with secondary sources such as archaeological and anthropological findings;
• selecting materials, verifying their authenticity, and researching and describing the history of a particular period, country or region in its economic, social or political aspects;
• conducting research in fields such as political philosophy and the past or present theory and practice of political systems, institutions and behaviour;
• observing contemporary political institutions and their positions, collecting information about them from various sources, including interviews with members of government and political parties or other responsible persons;
• developing theories, models and methods for interpreting and describing the nature of human experience and historical and political events and behaviour;
• presenting findings and conclusions for publication or use by governments, political parties or other organisations and interested persons;
• preparing scientific papers and reports.
• Examples of occupations in this unit group:
• Genealogist
• Historian
• Philosopher
• Political scientist