Philosophy takes on a whole new meaning when you participate in a live, off-campus?Philosophy Slam?a forum of free expression?sponsored by Jacksonville University?s Philosophy Club. A moderator promotes thought and debate as students express themselves on hot-button issues such as free speech, politics, euthanasia, sexuality, and religion. This unorthodox teaching method is extremely popular and provides a unique format for engaged learning.?

The study of philosophy and religion is a foundational element in a well-rounded liberal education. By developing the ability to write and think clearly, a philosophy major or a minor in philosophy or religion constitutes an outstanding preparation for a wide variety of careers. The JU philosophy program introduces students to the tradition of philosophical reasoning about the nature of the world, the limits of human knowledge and the proper course of human conduct.

The major is offered both as a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts degree. Courses are available in the major areas of the history of Western thought from ancient and medieval philosophy to classical modern philosophy, contemporary continental philosophy and contemporary analytic philosophy.

Also offered are courses in the philosophy of art, ethical theory, applied ethics, logic and political philosophy, as well as periodic interdisciplinary courses with the sciences, social sciences and the humanities. The philosophy department also encourages majors to arrange independent study projects in a specific area of interest.

The department also offers a minor in religion. The courses in religion focus on the critical examination of traditions, doctrines, rituals, literature, and cultures of a wide variety of belief systems. Both critical and survey methods are used in Biblical studies and in the investigation of ancient and modern belief systems of Western and nonwestern peoples. The religious beliefs, traditions, and practices of all peoples are treated with academic respect.