Department of Philosophy

Philosophy is the analysis and evaluation of the basic assumptions and inferences that we make in formulating arguments: about reality, truth, knowledge, reasoning, human nature, the ultimate goals of life, right and wrong conduct, and public institutions, laws, and policies.

Ultimately, philosophy is concerned with the examination and development of a coherent and rationally defensible view of the world and our place in it. It is a rigorous discipline of "thinking about thinking" (Aristotle's definition) that has been around since the ancient beginnings of recorded human civilization. And it remains a vital part of the intellectual culture of the 21st century world.

Course Descriptions

The OU Pledge is the university’s commitment to providing undergraduate students with the opportunity for meaningful, hands-on learning. Our majors and minors engage in experiential learning through their attendance and participation at our annual Burke Lecture (and other philosophical talks hosted by the Department of Philosophy) and through other opportunities offered by the department, including:

• Philosophy Camp
  
• Our Philosophy for Everyone course
• Ethics Bowl
• Philosophy Club
• Our ethics courses designed for future professionals in the fields of science, engineering, health care, and criminal justice
  
• The Visitor Program for our Ethics in Science and Engineering classes (where a professional scientist/engineer talks with our classes about the realities of ethical decision-making in the workplace)