Philosophy
Philosophy is a quest for truth, for ultimate values. As a philosophy major at Fairfield, you'll develop the philosophical habit of mind and ask the questions that lead you toward discovery of those values. This calls for an understanding of the historical and thematic development of moral and intellectual standards that affect our own and other cultures and a critical evaluation of our own experience.
The Fairfield program offers you a broad perspective developed in small classes by teachers who represent the three major currents of philosophical thought today:
- Analytic philosophy
- Existentialism and phenomenology
- Speculative or traditional philosophy
Each tradition is represented in Fairfield University's philosophy program. This variety of perspectives gives a broad outlook to the student. You'll be encouraged to do independent work, to think out and publish your own thoughts on philosophical issues. The rigor of the program will develop confidence and skill within you.
To further these aims, the Department:
- Hosts Socrates Cafe, a bi-weekly gathering of students and faculty who discuss philosophy
- Annually sponsors a series of lectures and, on occasion, seminars for the development of its faculty
- Encourages students to attend lectures and events at other major universities, which are readily accessible because of Fairfield's proximity to New York City and New Haven
- Annually recognizes the highest scholastic average in philosophy attained by a philosophy major through the Carl J. Levantino Award for excellence in the study of philosophy
- Publishes the Fairfield Philosophy Journal, with each issue consisting of student papers selected by a committee of the Department's faculty
- Presents an award in honor of the late Rev. J. Dennis Crowley, S.J., for the best student essay
The Department of Philosophy offers a major and a minor. All Fairfield students take Introduction to Philosophy, which develops an awareness of philosophical issues through study of the great thinkers of ancient and medieval times.
The quest for fundamental values makes the study of philosophy a source of great personal satisfaction and an excellent preparation for a wide variety of careers.
