The Department of Philosophy and Religion offers programs in two separate disciplines, philosophy and religion. The programs are different but similar in nature. Philosophy explores the most fundamental questions about human life, including the nature and meaning of the basic elements of human experience and the limits of knowledge. The study of religion is in the tradition of the liberal arts, and among the other humanistic disciplines. The course of study encourages a critical approach to religious texts and traditions, emphasizing literary, historical, philosophical, theological and moral inquiries.
The Department of Philosophy and Religion fit together like a hand in a glove. They both ask fundamental questions. Both explore how to live a good life and take seriously the questions that arise in life and try to answer them. They expose and question assumptions and try to find answers and set standards for those answers.
Students of Philosophy will explore the moral and political philosophy, philosophy of logic, philosophy of language, the history of analytic philosophy, ancient philosophy, Kant and Wittgenstein to name a few. Faculty will help students articulate in speaking and writing clearly, in thinking and reasoning clearly and draw connections among the many ideas that abound.
Students of Religion contemplate deeply about topics such as the purpose of life, the nature of reality and our relationships with others. They also will develop skills of careful reading and clear writing as they wrestle with many fundamental questions, as well as a greater respect for others and a firm basis for constructively contributing to solutions for the problems of our time.