Department of Philosophy
Located in Knight Hall
"It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it."
~ Aristotle (384 BC - 322 BC)
Students who like to think about things and aren't satisfied to limit their education to classrooms often enjoy becoming a part of the Philosophy Department. The curriculum encourages discussion and questions in and out of the classroom setting.
The Department of Philosophy focuses on undergraduate education in the history of philosophy. Most students begin the curriculum with a general introductory course or an introduction to ethics, but the department also offers a full-slate of cross-disciplinary courses that have no prerequisites, such as "Political Philosophy," "Philosophy of Art," "Philosophy of Science" and "Philosophy and Literature."
The core of the philosophy major is a six-course History of Philosophy sequence, which begins with the "Pre-Socratics" and ends with "20th Century Analytic Philosophy." Advanced students choose from a rich offering of seminars concentrating on individual philosophers or specific philosophical topics. Seniors are required to take a comprehensive examination and are encouraged to do independent research under the supervision of a faculty advisor.
The major consists of 30 hours of philosophy courses, including three from the History of Philosophy Sequence, at least one advanced course on a specific philosopher or philosophical topic and formal logic.
Minors
The minor consists of 15 hours of philosophy courses, including two courses from the History of Philosophy sequence.
Special Activities and Programs
The Philosophy Society is a new student organization on campus. Events have included round-table discussions and a group bowling excursion.
The Political Philosophy lecture series combines presentations from Mercer professors with lectures by visiting scholars.