Philosophy

Did you know that the “Ph” in Ph.D. stands for “philosophy?” Philosophy literally means “love of wisdom.” Philosophers aren’t afraid to ask big questions and to push all of us to seek answers.

Ask the big questions

The Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies encompasses two disciplines that share a commitment to pursuing the fundamental questions of human existence and to examining the various ways in which the traditions of philosophy and religion have answered these questions.

Let’s get philosophical

The Philosophy program encourages students to think creatively and critically, analyze important texts and issues in the history of philosophy, and bring challenges and contemporary perspectives to that tradition.

The term “philosophy” literally means “love of wisdom,” and courses in philosophy range from considerations of how we should live to the nature of human knowing. The study of philosophy often inspires students to develop a practice of living that informs their lives regardless of career choice.

  • <blockquote class="callout-quote"><div class="callout-quote-text"><p> “My best memories of Monmouth are of being in the classroom. No matter the class, I fell in love with being a student, and I know I’ll always carry that with me moving forward.”</p></div><footer class="callout-quote-footer">Isaac Willis ’18, Philosophy and English double major</footer></blockquote>

Our faculty are active scholars in their fields and provide opportunities for students to pursue scholarly projects in their areas of interest and to engage in the scholarly world beyond the classroom.

Philosophy News

  • Hatch Award Recipients

    Mamary, Simmons receive Monmouth College’s prestigious honors for scholarship, service.
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  • Thompson Lecture

    On March 23, guest speaker Jacqueline Scott will discuss how she has brought together philosophy, feminism and faith.
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  • Addison Cox

    Episode No. 7: Oct. 14, 2022

    Lincoln Laureate Addison Cox ’23 (pictured) discusses three of her favorite novels, winning a conference championship with the track and field team, and discovering her second major.
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  • Religious & Spiritual Life

    FOUNDED IN FAITHAll Are Welcome.

  • By the numbers

    Forget the should.Free the possible.