Philosophy

The goal of the Philosophy Department is to work with students to develop the skills of critical analysis, powerful speaking, and clear writing, skills alumni find of singular practical use in a wide variety of careers, and indispensable to their work as responsible citizens. We emphasize the value of philosophical examination for understanding broad issues that concern us all.

Summer Program in Philosophy

The Hamilton College Summer Program in Philosophy (HCSPiP) brings together creative teachers, ambitious undergraduates, and engaging graduate students, for three concurrent, innovative, two-week courses in philosophy.

Students gain experience with new approaches to philosophy, working with outstanding philosophy teachers and a diverse group of students chosen for their desire to learn together. All students in the program participate fully in all three courses. Classes meet daily, Monday through Friday. Evenings contain both structured activities and unstructured time to study and relax with other undergraduate philosophers.

philosophy summer prog — Students vote for a new law in an Athenian assembly during HCSPiP. Photo: Julia Dupuis ’21

Teaching assistants, all current graduate students in philosophy Ph.D. programs, gain experience and serve as a bridge between the faculty and the undergraduates. They are resources both for academic support for the courses and for networking for students thinking about continuing their philosophy studies after college. Teachers have the opportunity to experiment with new pedagogy. All courses are chosen for their promise of innovation and engagement.

All participants are provided with room and board while they are at Hamilton College and receive stipends from the Truax Fund in Philosophy.

In addition to coursework, the HCSPiP provides a one-day Adirondack trip, a July 4 celebration, and other philosophy-related activities.

The program culminates, for faculty, in a conference on pedagogy at which the three instructors of the courses will present their work. At the conference, instructors share their experiences, what they tried and what they learned. Presenters are encouraged to focus on general, transferable pedagogical skills so that the conference will be useful for instructors in a wide range of disciplines.

Program Website