Philosophy
exploring not
what to think, but how
The aim of the Philosophy Department is to guide students in developing philosophical knowledge and skills which will be directly applicable as they navigate the world at large. The most important goal of the department is to prepare students for life after graduation by focusing not just on academic content, but on building a “tool kit” of life skills. Rooted in the enlightenment concept “dare to think”, the Philosophy Department explores not what to think, but how, including a combination of important academic and applied skills work, largely in the fields of epistemology and metaphysics.
To study philosophy is to forge connections between ideas and test if these connections are both logical and reasonable. The best way to explain the study of philosophy is through a sports analogy. If we equate organized sports (football, hockey, lacrosse, etc.) to traditional academic coursework (math, science, languages, etc.) studying philosophy is the equivalent of going to the gym. When you work out your muscles, you are engaging in a demanding (and sometimes uncomfortable!) process to promote future growth and strength, which is rewarding in itself, and will also enhance performance in your sport. Studying philosophy follows the same principle; it poses more questions than answers, and feels like a constant struggle, but leads to profound mental growth and maturation. Our Philosophy Department currently offers a trimester-long introductory course in which we will grapple with questions of ethics, logic, existence, reality, and what it means to be human, as we strengthen and condition our minds for all other endeavors.
Philosophy At Salisbury:
The academic life at Salisbury is motivating. The teachers, coaches, and mentors at Salisbury are exceptional. They bring passion and expertise into their intimate classroom settings. Collaboration, innovation, problem solving, creativity, and civic responsibility are just some of the principles that guide Salisbury School’s educational model. Most importantly, these men and women partner with you each day and always with the highest expectations.
Dean of Academic Life Sarah Mulrooney