"All Philosophy begins-as the ancient Greeks so well knew-with astonishment and wonder."
-Kurt Reinhart

The study of philosophy makes a contribution to the cultural achievements of society. A wide variety of issues, important for the sustenance and development of individuals and communities, derive from the ancient domain of philosophy. Philosophers analyze and reflect on the following questions: What is the human condition? How can we think and talk about the metaphysical? How do we, and should we, relate to other human beings, animals and the environment? How can we develop an understanding and acceptance of differences regarding gender, race, sexual orientation, world-view, religion, etc.? How can we integrate scientific findings into cultural paradigms? How can we help solve societal and global problems? These and many more important questions are studied from a variety of perspectives and promote, in addition to knowledge of the field, certain intellectual skills and values.

Critical inquiry, intellectual courage and compassionate understanding are values fostered in a philosophical study, These key values enable us to link our past and present cultural paradigms with the future demands of a global society. The aim of the Philosophy Department at McDaniel College is to assist students in the cultivation of clear thought and speech, sophisticated inquiry and comprehension of intellectual concepts and creative and meaningful explorations of ourselves and the world around us.

Feel free to explore the site to learn more about Philosophy and Philosophers:

• A few famous Philosophy majors
• Quotations about Philosophy