Chair's Welcome
Welcome to the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies at East Tennessee State University and thank you for visiting our website!
The history of philosophy can be traced back well over 2,000 years. Ours is a discipline that is centrally concerned with the fundamental nature of reality, knowledge, values, and the human condition. Are things the way they appear? What can we know with certainty, if anything? What makes an action morally praiseworthy or blameworthy? How can we each find meaning and purpose in the modern world? These give just a flavor of the kinds of questions that preoccupy philosophers. If you’ve ever found yourself contemplating such deep questions, you should consider studying with us.
Our department offers B.A. and B.S. degrees with three distinct concentrations: Philosophy;
Religious Studies; and, Justice, Ethics and Law. We also offer minors in philosophy,
religious studies, ethics, and humanities. We offer a wide range of courses both at
introductory and advanced levels, and host a regular schedule of invited guests and
speakers. We have scholarships available to Seniors and through the University Research
Honors Program.
Our students develop excellent communication skills, creative thinking skills and
(especially) critical thinking skills. These are qualities that employers value highly.
As such, an undergraduate degree in Philosophy provides a foundation for success across
a wide range of careers and professions. Our former students have excelled in medicine,
law, business, public service, teaching, and much more besides.
Majoring in philosophy will give you an advantage in the job market, but also provide
you with a greater appreciation for the origins of the most influential ideas in human
history. You’ll gain insights that will improve personal decision-making and prepare
you to contribute to your community in meaningful and lasting ways. We’re also confident
you’ll have fun. Confronting new ideas, and examining them carefully, in a safe and
welcoming environment, is an exciting way for anyone to spend time in college. For
all the reasons I’ve outlined, I hope you’ll consider joining us. If you have questions,
about our programs, scholarships, or courses, or about whether you can be sure that
you’re not a brain in a vat, please don’t hesitate to email me.
Sincerely,
Department Chair