Philosophy
To do philosophy is to encounter some of the most fundamental questions that can be asked about human existence. Philosophical investigation leads students to recognize the otherwise unnoticed assumptions that, far from standing on the periphery of our daily lives, underpin even our most ordinary ways of interacting with other persons and engaging in human projects. Such assumptions concern, for example, the nature of human knowledge, action, and value. Philosophy challenges students to move beyond uncritical patterns of thought, to recognize problems, and to exchange a more naive world view for a more considered and justifiable one. In doing so, students learn to think in ways that are simultaneously both disciplined and imaginative. Philosophy Department faculty members cooperatively approach these concerns from diverse perspectives, both in studying the works of major philosophers and in their own creative activity. Students are encouraged to join with the faculty in this inquiry and to philosophize creatively on their own. The courses and seminars in the Department are intended to develop the abilities necessary for these activities.
Philosophy Department Offices
Knapp Hall 205
740-587-6387
Events
Philosophy Coffee and
Awards Ceremony
Friday, April 25 at 3:30 pm, Barney Davis Hall, Room 110
Join us for the final coffee of the year. We’ll celebrate the end of the year with an awards ceremony and
delicious appetizers and desserts.
The Titus-Hepp Lecture Series: Humans and Other Animals
Peter Singer
Convocation
"Extending Ethics Beyond the Species Barrier"
November 29, 2007 at 8:00 PM
Swasey Chapel
Colloquium
"Global Poverty: What are our Obligations?"
November 30, 2007 at 3:30 PM
Burton-Morgan Lecture Hall
Martha Nussbaum
Convocation
"Compassion: Human and Animal"
April 3, 2008 at 8:00 PM
Slayter Auditorium
Colloquium
"'Mutilated and Deformed': Adam Smith on the Material Basis of Human Dignity"
April 4, 2008 at 3:30 PM
Burton-Morgan Lecture Hall
Above events co-sponsored by the McGregor Connections Initiative.