Introduction
Philosophical thinking is nothing less than the core of a liberal education.
Philosophy enriches thought, imagination, understanding, and experience as a whole.
By studying philosophy, students confront questions and problems both theoretical and practical about themselves and their relation to the world. Grinnell is an excellent place to study philosophy. The department offers courses in philosophy, logic, and ethics at the introductory level. In addition, because every faculty member has an area of philosophical expertise, students can take a variety of upper-level courses designed to look at the traditions and problems of Western philosophy from ancient Greece to the present day.
The major also places an emphasis on writing. You will be encouraged to debate philosophical viewpoints and form your own ideas. You will also investigate the philosophical problems permeating other disciplines, such as law, science, religion, feminist theory, and literature.
Original works are discussed in their historical context to give you an opportunity to trace the origin and development of philosophy from its distant past to the present.
Because the philosophy major is solidly grounded in the liberal arts, you will leave Grinnell with a broad education whether you choose a career or graduate school. You will enjoy interdisciplinary study, and you will work with faculty who are interested in you and the quality of your work.
The study of philosophy contributes to the pursuit of almost any career. Job titles among graduates include assistant attorney general for the State of Iowa, a hospital physician, professor of public administration at George Washington University, senior engineer at Russell Resources, Inc., operations producer at NBC Sports, and co-editor of The New York Times Book Review.
Upcoming Events
Philosophy Major Open House
Wednesday, February 22. 4:15. Location TBA.
Philosophy Spring Colloquium
Wednesday, February 8 - Wednesday, May 2. See here for more details.
Contact Us
Phone: 641-269-3157
Fax: 641-269-4414
Mail: Steiner Hall, 1120 Park Street, Grinnell, IA 50112
