Philosophy is the careful, in-depth study of humanity’s most basic ideas, presuppositions, and beliefs.
With the goal of first understanding who we are, how the world is, and how we conceive the world, philosophy seeks to then challenge those conceptions and why we hold them. Courses within this major welcome and celebrate a diversity of opinions, with students encouraged to examine why they hold certain views and learn to think critically about these views. Students leave the major with a new lens through which to view our world and the people in it.
Jeanne Beliveau – Academic Administrative Assistant
7 Andrews Road
Hedge Hall
Phone: 207-786-8204
jbelive2@bates.edu
Philosophy majors at Bates have gone on to successful careers that require finely tuned critical thinking skills and the ability to craft complex arguments. These fields vary from science to government to economics. In addition, graduates have continued their education at medical school, law school, or other graduate schools, where their strong foundation in philosophy gives them a much-needed perspective on our world.
of 2020-2024 Humanities graduates are employed and/or attending graduate school
The Philosophy department at Bates cultivates an atmosphere that is inclusive and makes room for historically underrepresented perspectives. Courses emphasize both the history of philosophical thought and the striking innovations, insights, and relevance of contemporary philosophy. The curriculum goes beyond the historical lineage of philosophy, which can be traced back through Europe and Ancient Greece, to highlight marginalized voices and approaches that help us understand humans across all identities. Many courses focus on non-Western approaches to philosophy, taking into account how oppression has influenced and determined the nature of philosophical questions.
Faculty members in the Philosophy department at Bates have published articles in renowned journals and overseen ethics departments at major hospitals. They are active philosophers and scholars who work tirelessly to explore and contribute to their areas of interest, whether that’s philosophy of film, metaphysics, or biomedical ethics.
In the Student Center for Belonging and Community, first-generation Bates students mentor their younger peers, providing guidance on everything from academics to internships to social life.
Bates is embarking on a $45 million project to update two key athletic facilities and construct a new fitness and well-being center. A gift of $10 million from Jon W. Brayshaw ’90, P’25 and Jocelyn Stoddard Brayshaw ’88, P’25 has brought the college a vital step closer to construction. The new facility will be named the Stoddard Fitness and Well-Being Center.
February on campus saw sports successes, several large snowfalls, and our annual Winter Carnival — a week of events celebrating the joys of the chilly season.
