Studying Philosophy at Kenyon
Philosophers seek to answer the most basic questions about the world and our place in it. In small, interactive seminars that emphasize discussion and dialogue, philosophy students study original works of classical and contemporary philosophers, raising their own questions and constructing new arguments.
Featured Courses
Introduction to Ethics
The key question in ethics is “How should I live my life?” This course explores the question by examining ethical traditions such as honor ethics, Stoicism, Aristotelian virtue ethics, sentimentalism, utilitarianism, Kant’s practical philosophy, Nietzsche’s critique of morality, Buddhist ethics and feminist ethics.
Ancient Philosophy
Ancient Greek philosophy is not only the basis of the Western and Arabic philosophical traditions, it is central for understanding Western culture in general, including literature, science and religion. We focus on Socrates, Plato and Aristotle but also examine the work of the pre-Socratics and the Sophists.
Mind, Perception and Film
This is not a course on film history, theory or aesthetics, nor does it use film to illustrate philosophical ideas. Rather, this course treats film as a phenomenon in its own right, both of this world and otherworldly. We will explore a range of questions on what the magic of film teaches us about who we are
Existentialism
Existentialism is both an expression of humanity’s struggle with the perennial problems of philosophy and a response to the social and spiritual conditions of our times. Among the topics we examine in this course are alienation, authenticity, self-knowledge, belief in God, the nature of value and the meaning of life.
Ascension Hall
Kenyon College
Gambier, Ohio 43022