Program Overview
The Philosophy major and minor at Lawrence prepare students to think analytically and critically and to write persuasively about any topic via the careful analysis and evaluation of key fundamental questions about the world and our place in it. Students explore topics ranging from how we know anything at all to the nature of a just society while working closely with faculty in small classes. Opportunities for independent research and interdisciplinary study help students connect theory to real-world challenges. Graduates leave with a foundation that supports a wide range of career paths, including public service, education, Ph.D. programs, law school, and other post-graduate programs.
Program Highlights
Think Clearly Across Any Subject
Develop adaptable analytical and critical-thinking skills grounded in identifying, evaluating, and building strong arguments.
Write with Clarity and Persuasion
Strengthen your ability to communicate complex ideas and make compelling arguments across a wide range of topics.
Learn Closely with Faculty
Build meaningful relationships with faculty while applying philosophical thinking across disciplines and areas of human inquiry.
Prepare for Advanced Study
Gain a strong foundation for law school and other graduate or professional programs.
Types of Degrees
Pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy or add philosophy to your studies through a minor.
Advising
At Lawrence, academic advising helps you shape an educational experience that reflects your interests, goals, and aspirations. Your faculty advisor will support you as you plan your path, connect with campus resources and communities, and make informed decisions that prepare you for a meaningful and fulfilling future.
Faculty
Engage deeply and collaboratively with professors who are experts in their field and committed to supporting your education.
Chair(s)
Ingrid V. Albrecht (she/her)
David and Julia Uihlein Professor of Ethics and Associate Professor of Philosophy
ingrid.v.albrecht@lawrence.edu
Areas of Research and Teaching: Normative Ethics, Applied Ethics, Philosophy of Gender and Sexuality (Feminism, Love, and Friendship), Value Theory, and 19th Century Philosophy. Recent publication: “Rules of Disengagement: A…
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Benjamin M. Chan
Visiting Associate Professor of Philosophy
Areas of Research and Teaching: Ethical Theory, Bioethics, Food Ethics, Philosophy of Sport, History of Philosophy Sample Publications: “Jeopardy! and The Stories of Our Lives” in The Philosophy of Ted…
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Ingrid V. Albrecht (she/her)
David and Julia Uihlein Professor of Ethics and Associate Professor of Philosophy
ingrid.v.albrecht@lawrence.edu
Areas of Research and Teaching: Normative Ethics, Applied Ethics, Philosophy of Gender and Sexuality (Feminism, Love, and Friendship), Value Theory, and 19th Century Philosophy. Recent publication: “Rules of Disengagement: A…
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Mark Phelan
Professor of Philosophy
Areas of Research and Teaching: Epistemology, Philosophy of Mind, Philosophy of Language (Production and Comprehension), Cognitive Science, and Social Philosophy. Recent Publications: “Attribution functionalism” Mind and Language (2026); “Norm manipulation…
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Scott Dixon (he)
Associate Professor of Philosophy
Areas of Research and Teaching: Metaphysics, Logic, Philosophies of Language, Mathematics, Music, and Religion. Recent Publications: “Accessibility and Relative Fundamentality“, Philosophical Studies (2026); “Plural Expression and Converse Relations, Analysis (2025);…
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Learning Spaces
Students will read key philosophical texts addressing fundamental questions about the world and our place in it and participate in rich discussions about these texts with faculty and their fellow students in small classes. Students will also have informal opportunities for philosophical conversation with their professors and peers at regularly scheduled lunches.
