To cultivate well-rounded, capable philosophers familiar with both the Anglo-American and European-Continental traditions of philosophy.
To cultivate a solid appreciation of the canonical periods of Western philosophy, emphasizing that contemporary research rests upon a critical appropriation of such traditions.
To enable the student to think clearly, systematically, and critically about philosophical issues.
To encourage students to develop their own autobiographically sensitive and socially responsible approach to philosophical inquiry.
To give students the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of philosophy and to develop this special area of interest in an interdisciplinary fashion.
To cultivate a student’s ability to engage in original philosophical inquiry by offering intensive, closely directed tutorial instruction.
To supervise and support students in producing a scholarly manuscript documenting some degree of expertise and originality in a special area of contemporary research.
To cultivate an appreciation for aesthetic experience as a source of critical insight, existential flexibility, and life-orienting motivations necessary for the full reach and depth of philosophical sensitivity.
To mentor students in gaining professional comportment in formal conference settings.
