Department of Philosophy

The department offers a wide range of courses covering the principal historical periods and major individual thinkers in our philosophical tradition, as well as the basic problem areas and most important movements in contemporary philosophy. The program of study is aimed not only at providing a sense of our intellectual history and an understanding of the perennial problems concerning human existence and its place in the universe, but also at fostering the student’s capacity for critical thinking about the intellectual, moral, social and political, aesthetic, and religious dimensions of experience. A number of specializations are open to majors in philosophy, and a number of joint majors are available with other departments.

Because the study of philosophy places an unusually strong emphasis on conceptual analysis and logical argumentation, on precise formulation and critical assessment, it can greatly improve thinking and writing skills and promote effective communication. It is thus of special value not only to those pursuing a general education but to preprofessional students as well.