Philosophy

The Philosophy program at Hampshire College offers an innovative and student-centered approach to exploring fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and the human condition. Emphasizing critical thinking, analytical skills, and interdisciplinary inquiry, the program encourages students to engage deeply with both classical philosophical texts and contemporary debates. Students have the opportunity to customize their educational experience through a flexible curriculum that fosters independent research, discussion, and collaboration. The program is designed to cultivate rigorous reasoning, effective communication, and ethical awareness, preparing graduates for diverse careers and advanced study in philosophy, law, public policy, education, and other fields. Hampshire’s distinctive emphasis on experiential learning, community engagement, and critical dialogue allows students to connect philosophical ideas to real-world issues and personal experiences. Through small seminar-style classes, faculty mentorship, and hands-on projects, students develop a nuanced understanding of philosophical thought and its relevance to modern society. The program also promotes interdisciplinarity by encouraging connections between philosophy and areas such as social justice, politics, science, and art. Graduates of the Hampshire College Philosophy program emerge well-equipped to think deeply, argue persuasively, and contribute thoughtfully to their communities and professions.

• Love, Sex, and Death
• Philosophy as a Way of Life
• Other Minds
• Moral Philosophy
• The Global War on Terror: New Legal and Philosophical Frameworks
• Ethics, Aesthetics, Politics, and the Concept of Address
• Freewill and Determinism
• Identity Beyond Identity Politics
• Kant and German Idealism
• Philosophy of Education
• Introduction to Metaphysics
• The Philosophy of Ludwig Wittgenstein
• Intro to Political Philosophy: Politics, Recognition and Exclusion
• Contemporary French Philosophy
• Philosophy of Mind
• Philosophy, Relativism and Truth
• Environmental Ethics
• Philosophies of Modern and Contemporary Art
• Science and Religion: The History and Philosophy of an Uneasy Relationship
• The Philosophy & Science of Happiness
• Ancient Philosophy (AC)
• Buddhist Philosophy (SC)
• Feminism and Knowledge (MHC)
• The Greek Period (MHC)
• Kant (UMass)
• The Meaning of Life (SC)
• Metaphysics (UMass)
• Philosophy for Children (MHC)
• Plato (AC)
• Problems in Social Thought (UMass)

Requirements

• Common Application
• An academic paper in English
• Supplemental essay responses
• Current transcripts
• School report, including guidance counselor recommendation
• At least one letter of recommendation from a teacher
• Certification of Finances form
• TOEFL or IELTS score (Minimum TOEFL score of 91 or a minimum IELTS score of 6.5. Predicted grades for IB English A1 or A2, or for A-level English, will also be considered.
• Additional letters of recommendation, up to three

Scholarships

• MacArthur Foundation Grant Making Programs
• American Association of University Women
• Fulbright International Scholarship Program for non-US students

The Philosophy program at Hampshire College offers a comprehensive exploration of fundamental questions concerning existence, knowledge, ethics, and reason. This interdisciplinary program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and the development of a well-reasoned worldview. Students in the Philosophy major have the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of philosophical topics, including ancient philosophy, modern philosophy, ethics, political philosophy, philosophy of mind, and epistemology. The curriculum encourages students to examine contemporary issues through philosophical lenses, fostering a deep understanding of human thought and behaviors. Hampshire College's philosophy program is distinguished by its emphasis on independent research and personalized academic pathways. Students collaborate closely with faculty members, participate in seminars, and often undertake individual projects that challenge them to think creatively and rigorously. The college's progressive approach promotes experiential learning, critical dialogue, and the application of philosophical ideas across various disciplines. Graduates of the program are well-equipped for careers in law, education, public policy, journalism, or further academic pursuits. The college's supportive community and innovative curriculum strive to produce thoughtful, reflective, and socially engaged graduates prepared to tackle complex global issues through philosophical inquiry.