Philosophy

Department Office
Nichols Hall 363
(707) 664-2163
www.sonoma.edu/philosophy/

Department Chair
Andy Wallace

Administrative Coordinator
Angela Follenvaider

Faculty

Joshua Glasgow
Gillian Parker
John Sullins
Andy Wallace

The Philosophical Life

The overall aim of the SSU Philosophy Department is to train and inspire students to became effective ethical agents in the world. The research focus of our faculty covers a range of topics in practical philosophy: environmental ethics; robo-ethics and artificial intelligence; compassion, pro-social emotions and moral psychology; moral theory; philosophy of law; philosophy of race; philosophy of gender; social justice; the good life; and global interdependence. Although students will specialize in one of the four concentrations, they will have ample opportunity to take classes from all the concentrations. Students will graduate with a well-rounded background and training in practical philosophy.

Faculty and Curriculum

At the heart of the philosophy program is the faculty: dedicated teachers and scholars who represent key approaches to philosophy, and who are actively engaged in ongoing research. We have designed the curriculum to provide the major with a contemporary understanding of philosophy.

Career Options

Philosophy majors have interesting career options, which include but are not limited to: law, public policy, medicine and medical ethics, ethical analyst for technology research and design, education (primary, secondary, and post-secondary), international relations, government, and business. Philosophy was recently determined to result in the highest mid-career salary of any major outside of the STEM fields. It is regularly cited by business and industry leaders as a desired major to hire from, as philosophy is excellent training for critical thinking and effective communication.

Advising

Advising begins with an initial advising interview with the department chair. During the following semester the student will choose a regular faculty advisor. See department Administrative Coordinator at department office for details.