Philosophers at Wesleyan approach our subjects with tools from a range of traditions of inquiry, and we offer a wide variety of perspectives on the deep and perplexing questions that are central to the study of philosophy.

We divide our courses into three levels (introductory, intermediate, and advanced) and three broad subject areas (historical, value, and mind and reality). Introductory classes are suitable for all students, including prospective majors. Intermediate classes tend to have prerequisites or in other ways may be unsuitable for first-year students. Advanced classes are typically aimed at majors in philosophy and other relevant disciplines. Historical courses focus primarily on philosophical texts, whether within a period, across periods or traditions, or by a single philosopher. Courses in the value area primarily address ethical, political, aesthetic, cultural, or religious practices and norms. Mind and reality courses look at issues related to language, mind, reasoning, knowledge, and the nature of reality. The three subject areas are by no means mutually exclusive.

There are two tracks within the Philosophy major ? the general philosophy track and the social justice track.

The general philosophy track allows students to be exposed to a range of issues and approaches from various historical periods in both the East and the West.

The social justice track recognizes that philosophers since antiquity have not only asked questions about what social institutions are needed to achieve justice, but have also worked as social reformers to promote social justice. Philosophical methods of conceptual and contextual analyses and careful argumentation provide important tools for grappling with real world injustices. The social justice track allows students to develop their philosophical skills to address questions of human rights, equality, and social responsibility.