Philosophy and Religious Studies

Within the Philosophy and Religious Studies major, students complete a common core of required courses and then concentrate in either discipline. The major encourages critical inquiry, empathetic understanding, multicultural exploration, and examination of our most fundamental questions and concerns. What are the foundations of knowledge? How should we conceive of ultimate reality? What is the right thing to do, and what does it mean to promote individual well-being and social justice? How do human beings conceive of and construct meaning? How do we translate philosophical inquiry and methodical examination of culture into leading a better life?

Philosophy is a systematic investigation of fundamental issues concerning knowledge, reality, ethics, and politics. The philosophy concentration at MMC focuses on the history of philosophy from the ancient world through the modern period, along with thematic forms of inquiry that bring philosophical inquiry together with contemporary ethical and political concerns. When he was on trial for his life for having practiced philosophy, Socrates famously said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” To do philosophy is to live the examined life to enhance self-knowledge, but also to promote the flourishing of the communities we live in.

The Religious Studies concentration emphasizes an interdisciplinary and cross-cultural approach to the study of world religions. Students are encouraged to examine the variety of religious worldviews through various humanistic and social-scientific perspectives. The study of religion builds on historical investigation, textual analysis, and ethnographic observation in order to establish a solid understanding of belief systems around the world. The student is then encouraged to explain and interpret religion utilizing theories derived from disciplines such as philosophy, psychology, sociology, science, textual criticism, and theology. The academic study of religion explores the range of human experience, setting the stage for encountering other cultures and sophisticated analysis of complex and compelling phenomena.

In bringing these two disciplines together in our curriculum, we are committed to teaching vital skills that will set you apart as you apply for graduate school or enter the job market. As a PHIL/RS major, you will gain the ability to process and comprehend complex information; examine and analyze arguments, beliefs, actions, and practices using sophisticated theoretical models; critically evaluate different positions and perspectives; think outside the box of standard training and pre-professional tracks; and express yourself by debating, discussing, and writing clearly and effectively. These skills are in high demand by employers and graduate schools.

For those interested in pursuing a law-related career, a PHIL/RS major pairs well with the Law and Ethics minor. A prime location in New York City and our interdisciplinary curricular resources provide students with strong preparation for law school. Law school is a gateway to prosperous, fulfilling careers in the justice system, government, business, public policy institutes, think tanks, and many other areas.

Division:	Humanities and Social Sciences
Division Office:	Carson Hall 202
Phone:	646-393-4111
Division Chair:	Jennifer N. Brown, Ph.D. jbrown1@mmm.edu
Administrative Assistant:	Alexandra Dill adill@mmm.edu