Philosophy

Cole Hall Promenade with Segal Statues. Sun is shining and casting shadows through the promenade

Philosophy is the rational inquiry into our most basic beliefs and values. Socrates famously said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” This examination involves seeking answers to questions about truth, ethics, justice, consciousness, the body, freedom, technology, art, and so on. The answers philosophers offer are grounded on evidence, reasoning, and argument. By studying philosophy, students not only learn to think deeply about their own lives and communities, students develop powerful, cognitive transferrable skills that pay off in a variety of professions.

Make a Gift

The Classics and Humanities Department is committed to supporting students and providing quality lectures and presentations for both the campus and community. Your gift to the Classics and Humanities Department will help support scholarships or events sponsored by the department.

To give online, please type in “Classics and Humanities Department” in the “Gift Designation” field below.

Make a Gift

Philosophy for Lunch

A group of people sit around a square of tables, reading books and talking.

Join us in the Fall of 2026 for Philosophy for Lunch—every Thursday, 12PM–1PM. Check the calendar for each week’s topic and location!

What is Philosophy for Lunch?

P4L is a weekly event at which students, professors, and other philosophy enthusiasts close-read and discuss a few great passages of philosophy. The themes are different every week. Add the following to that paragraph: Recent sessions have focused on A.I., feminist philosophy, music, animal ethics, self-knowledge, and so on.

Who’s invited?
No preparation or previous knowledge of philosophy is needed. Everyone is welcome!

Should I bring anything?
Bring a beverage, and if you’re hungry, bring your actual lunch. There will be pizza.

Read The Montclarian’s feature about Philosophy for Lunch, here.

Three students sit in a classroom, two hold books, one is speaking

Philosophy Club

The Philosophy Club—run by philosophy majors—is a place of passion and curiosity, where students are welcome to explore a variety of topics in a fun, relaxed, and collaborative way. Come by and get a feel for our community. It will leave you with a new perspective on life. The club meets every Thursday, at 1:30PM, Schmitt Hall, Room 242.The club has recently discussed topics such as love, authenticity, Reddit, money, the Marvel universe, the self, art, knowledge, truth, and the question—”What is a sandwich?”

Professor Tiger Roholot in front of class speaking with screen visible next to him. Students are turned to him and listening

Major and Minors

Careers

Philosophy prepares students to think critically and creatively, communicate clearly, and approach complex problems from multiple perspectives — skills that are valuable across a wide range of careers and industries. Whether pursuing careers in technology, law, business, education, activism, government or public policy, philosophy students develop adaptable skills that prepare them for a rapidly changing world. The philosophy major is also exceptional training for many post-graduate paths, such as philosophy itself, law school, or social work.

By studying philosophy, students develop cognitive transferable skills that pay off in a variety of professions—transferable skills such as 

• Logical Reasoning 

• Analysis 

• Abstract Conceptualization 

• Problem-Solving 

• Creative Thinking 

• Clear and Persuasive Writing 

• Mental Dexterity 

• An Ability to Assess Different Perspectives and Frameworks 

• Information Management

The national median salary of Philosophy graduates is higher than most other majors in the humanities and social sciences, and higher than many other majors that you might expect to pay better. Do the comparisons yourself at this Payscale link.

Which professions do philosophy graduates pursue? 

• Technology 

• Business 

• Law • Publishing 

• Government 

• Advertising 

• Journalism

• Teaching 

• Sales 

• Human Resources 

• Public Relations 

• Activism 

• Public Policy, and so on

Our Faculty

1/

In the News

Contact Us