Philosophy is a critical, self-critical, comprehensive inquiry about knowledge, reasoning, reality, norms, and values. It deals with corresponding problems arising in science, morality, art, literature, religion, and the social and natural worlds. Accordingly, engaging in philosophy can both address curiosity about matters of lasting significance and help us develop skills for dealing intelligently and sensitively with life.
The department offers an undergraduate major and two minors: one in philosophy and one in social justice. It also offers a broad spectrum of courses reflecting the diversity of contemporary philosophical thought, particularly recent developments in applied ethics, non-western thought, comparative philosophy, and bioethics. In addition, members of the department play active and/or leadership roles in interdisciplinary programs including: African-American Studies; American Studies; the DNAP Program; the Honors Program; International Studies; Peace Studies; Religious Studies; and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies.
The department strives above all for excellence in teaching and for the cultivation of an active and supportive milieu for undergraduate study and for professional growth. It supports the scholarly research and professional activities of faculty.