Philosophy: Philosophy Home

Philosophy plays a central role in a liberal arts education, as an integrating discipline across the curriculum. Training in philosophy develops the student's ability to explore and critically reflect upon the most fundamental questions about human beings and society, the universe, and God. By focusing on its own history, philosophy acquaints students with the intellectual foundations of Western civilization. By enabling students to become reflective, critical and articulate about their own beliefs and values, philosophy makes an essential contribution to the education of individuals, whatever their vocational plans, and to the development of the community.

The major aims of the Department of Philosophy are:

• To contribute to the general education of students through our place in the core curriculum.
• To provide majors with a grounding in the history of philosophy, and a wide range of contemporary approaches and sub-disciplines, sufficient to prepare them for graduate studies.
• To be active and successful scholars whose work, both as teachers and researchers, commands the respect of our peers.