Academics

Cornell's philosophy department is home to a distinguished tradition of philosophical research and teaching. Students at every level and in every area of intellectual endeavor find opportunity to engage with great philosophical ideas and problems and develop the critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for advancing our understanding of them.

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Undergraduate Program Graduate Program Faculty Profiles Course Listings

Undergraduate Program

The study of philosophy provides students with an opportunity to become familiar with some of the ideas and texts in the history of thought while developing analytical skills that are valuable in practical as well as academic affairs. It affords the excitement and satisfaction that come from understanding and working toward solutions of intellectual problems.

Graduate Program

The Sage School's graduate program leads to the Ph.D. in philosophy. Its distinguishing characteristics are small classes and a collegial atmosphere in which vibrant philosophical exchange among graduate students, faculty and visiting philosophers is the norm. Graduate students receive individual attention to their work from faculty members. And the intellectual community among graduate students is stimulating and supportive.

Philosophy News

A&S dean Jayawardhana named provost at Johns Hopkins

7/12/2023

Rachel Bean, the Jacob Gould Schurman Professor in the Department of Astronomy and senior associate dean for math and science, has been named interim A&S dean.

A&S honors 23 faculty with endowed professorships

6/21/2023

The professorships are possible because of generous gifts from alumni, parents and friends.

Political philosopher Richard Miller dies at 77

6/16/2023

Remembered as "a remarkable scholar and teacher, a true polymath," Miller was heralded for extending traditional boundaries of philosophy to incorporate the social sciences.

Renowned Political Philosopher, Richard Miller, dies at 77

6/15/2023

Richard “Dick” W. Miller, PhD, Wyn and William Y. Hutchinson Professor in Ethics and Public Life (Emeritus), passed away on 6/9/23 at the age of 77. He is survived by Peggy Dieter (his wife of 41 years) and Laura Miller (his daughter).

Merrill Scholars honor mentors at 35th annual ceremony

5/26/2023

Forty-three student scholars, including nine from Arts and Sciences, were honored at this year’s 35th Merrill Presidential Scholars ceremony on May 23.

Nexus Scholars Program expands research opportunities to 101 students

5/15/2023

This summer, 101 students in the College of Arts and Sciences will take part in groundbreaking research on campus with 61 faculty as part of the Nexus Scholars Program.