Philosophy
Examine life’s biggest questions to think, act, and lead with clarity and purpose.
Why philosophy matters:
Philosophy is the practice of seeking wisdom — of questioning assumptions, examining beliefs, and exploring the nature of truth, justice, and the good life. As both a discipline and a way of thinking, it connects to every field of human activity, from politics and medicine to art, science, and everyday decision-making. Philosophers study the concepts that shape our societies and our personal lives, probing the foundations of knowledge, morality, and existence itself. This intellectual training cultivates skills in critical reasoning, argumentation, and ethical reflection — abilities that are essential not only for addressing pressing social challenges but also for engaging in a thoughtful, examined life. Philosophy graduates are prepared for a variety of paths, including law, government, education, medicine, business, and the arts.
How philosophy is taught at Muhlenberg:
At Muhlenberg, philosophy is global, interdisciplinary, and deeply personal. You’ll explore classical works alongside Africana, Caribbean, and Asian philosophies and connect your studies to contemporary issues in ethics, politics, science, and the arts. Small classes foster open dialogue, and faculty are both accomplished scholars and dedicated mentors who support your growth as a thinker and communicator. You can pursue specialized concentrations in philosophy of science and medicine or ethics, law, and justice and collaborate with faculty on independent research. Opportunities for internships, study abroad, and student-led initiatives extend your learning beyond the classroom. By the time you graduate, you’ll have the intellectual tools and perspective to engage with the complexities of the modern world — equipped not just to understand it, but to help shape it.
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The program offers a broad foundation through introductory, logic, history, ethics, and social theory courses, as well as global perspectives in Asian and Africana philosophy. Students progress to advanced seminars and individualized instruction, often focusing on thematic or interdisciplinary areas. Concentrations allow for targeted study, and all students develop the analytical, writing, and reasoning skills essential for philosophical inquiry and professional success.
Students apply philosophical thinking through research collaborations, internships, honors projects, and campus organizations. Independent studies, seminar discussions, and study abroad experiences deepen engagement with both historical and contemporary philosophical debates. Many students present research at conferences, participate in community-based ethics projects, or connect philosophy to careers in law, medicine, business, government, and education.
Powerful Outcomes
A Muhlenberg education sets you up for success. The liberal arts will hone your ability to think critically, communicate, and problem-solve, skills that are in high demand across all employment sectors.
Philosophy News
Muhlenberg Receives $1M Gift to Establish Endowed Professorship in Political Philosophy
The gift from Tammy Bormann '83 P'16 and Mark Paris '80 P'16, co-chairs of Boundless: The Campaign for Muhlenberg, will be matched by $1 million…
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