Philosophy

Philosophy is the study of fundamental questions on the nature of what is and what ought to be: What is a good life? What is the nature of reality? What makes us human?

In Emory’s Department of Philosophy, you’ll gain a broad foundation in areas like ethics, metaphysics, aesthetics, and epistemology that will prepare you to pursue a wide variety of career directions as well as for advanced study.

Examples of Classes at Oxford

Introduction to Logic

An introduction to principles of correct reasoning, with emphasis on formal and informal techniques for evaluating arguments. Students learn how to identify, analyze and evaluate arguments, both in academic texts and popular media; apply fundamental principles of deductive and inductive reasoning; and develop skills in writing, speaking about, and critiquing arguments.

Ancient Greek and Medieval Philosophy

This is an introduction to the principal figures and topics of ancient Greek and medieval philosophy. The course focuses on the development during these periods of philosophical about the nature of the human self and/or soul, humanity’s place in the cosmos, and the relationship between these and the conceptions of knowledge and the good life.

History of Political Philosophy

Humans — to paraphrase Aristotle — are political animals, and the study of social and political philosophy is, fundamentally, the study of how human life ought to be organized. You’ll get a broad introduction to the way philosophers have approached this topic, from ancient writings on the life in the polis, through modern liberal political philosophy, up to theories of power in the mid-20th century.

Example of Major Classes

Introduction to Ethics

What’s the best way of life? Is there a relationship between happiness and morality? What is the nature of ethical reasoning? Explore these fundamental questions through the lens of major philosophers.

Love and Friendship

Examine the significant philosophical reflection on the nature of romantic love and non-romantic friendship.

Topics: 19th Century Philosophy

This course provides an overview of Nietzsche’s thinking, including the question of truth, the death of God, the power of interpretation, woman and misogyny, morality and the critique of Christianity, the free spirit, and self-creation and autobiography.

Study Abroad in Philosophy

Emory-Tibet Partnership

Clare Barnes 19C, philosophy and religion double major with a sustainability minor, explored new ways of learning and thinking while vising a Tibetan monastic community in India, a study abroad experience she participated in through the Emory-Tibet Partnership.

Philosophy remains the most radical form of interrogation I've found, but we are, fundamentally, beings of response, only one of which is interrogation, which leaves philosophy haunted by moments for which it cannot fully account.
John T. Lysaker
Professor of Philosophy

Department of Philosophy