About

The University of Maine “advances learning and discovery through excellence and innovation while addressing the complex challenges of the 21st century through research-based knowledge.” Philosophy is at the heart of this mission. Our major is very flexible, so students can explore areas of philosophy that particularly interest them while they learn the fundamentals of the philosophical tradition. Logic and the history of philosophy are key to understanding how and why to do philosophy. The curriculum is especially strong in ethics and political philosophy. Our courses tend to be smaller, and all encourage discussion and active learning.

Philosophy not only broadens students’ horizons, but helps them better understand themselves and their own values and goals. Philosophy is especially effective in developing students’ analytic and writing skills through courses that cover the 2,000-year history of philosophy — from Plato and Aristotle to the latest 21st-century developments. Department members are committed to expanding the diversity of philosophical voices in our courses, events and research.