Department of Philosophy Mission
The chief concern of the UAH Department of Philosophy is to promote the critical evaluation of the fundamental assumptions that structure the range of human experiences. Questions concerning the nature and extent of knowledge, the character of reality, the foundations of value, and the distinction between correct and incorrect reasoning can only be considered in a disciplined and responsible fashion by moving beyond an uncritical acceptance of "common sense" beliefs and mere opinions. It is the special province of philosophy to articulate these assumptions, to evaluate them, and to propose and defend alternatives, where necessary. Philosophy examines influential historical and contemporary positions on these assumptions and the problems they raise, and promotes the development and refinement of the skills necessary to address them responsibly. This kind of critical reflection is recognized as a crucial responsibility of UAH in its mission statement. As a result, the work of the faculty of the Philosophy Department has a direct and immediate effect upon the university's ability to succeed in its fundamental mission to "foster creative and critical thinking, clear communication, a respect for knowledge and the pursuit of truth, and an engagement in the challenge and pleasure of a lifetime of learning." Moreover, the success of a democratic society depends upon the ability of its citizens and leaders to participate in an informed and serious debate about the issues around which the philosophy curriculum is structured.
Our primary goal is to educate our students in ways that enable them both to understand and to accept their responsibilities as citizens and future leaders and to succeed in their professional lives in any of the various areas for which undergraduate education in philosophy prepares them. Since this goal can only be attained by a faculty that is actively engaged in philosophical inquiry, it is also our goal to promote the active development and dissemination of high-quality research. We therefore expect every member of the department to be actively engaged in the production and publication of original philosophical works. The Department also takes seriously its service responsibilities to the community and therefore promotes educational activities and programs for the university and larger community.