University of New England

College: Arts and Sciences

Department: Philosophy and Religious Studies

Contact: Dr. Linda Sartorelli (Chair) lsartorelli@une.edu

Our mission is to expose students to the fundamental, important issues over which reasonable people disagree.  We also seek to help students develop and increase their critical thinking and writing skills. The study of methodology in philosophy creates self reflective, independent thinkers who can contribute to society in both intellectual and practical ways.

Philosophy asks the big questions: Who am I? What is there? What can be known? How should I live? These lead to other questions about the relationship between the mind and the body, appearance and reality, truth and opinion, right and wrong, freedom and determinism, the individual and society, human beings and nature, and God and the world. To ask these questions is to examine our most basic beliefs about human existence and the world we live in. At the same time, philosophy does not provide pat answers, but claims with Socrates that the goal is to live "the examined life." For this reason, the study of philosophy cultivates the skills of clear thinking and effective argumentation.

Religious studies provides an historical and comparative understanding of the world's religious traditions. It examines spiritual beliefs, practices, and rituals in order to understand the importance of religious faith in providing a source of human value and meaning.

The Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies offers courses at the heart of UNE's core curriculum that satisfies the "Explorations" and "Advanced Humanities" requirements. Our courses complement and enhance all fields of study at the University. Courses at the 100/200 level fulfill the Explorations core requirement. A minor in Philosophy is an excellent choice that complements any major. 

All admitted, matriculated students may seek a minor in Philosophy.  Students from all majors are invited to enroll in our courses and to seek a minor in Philosophy.  Students seeking a program of study in Philosophy should choose a major in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Philosophy and/or Religious Studies.

See Undergraduate Admissions

The minor in Philosophy requires the completion of six courses (minimum 18 credits) with the PHI or REL prefix.

Notice and Responsibilities Regarding this Catalog

This Catalog documents the academic programs, policies, and activities of the University of New England for the 2008-2009 academic year. The information contained herein is accurate as of date of publication August 1, 2008.

The University of New England reserves the right in its sole judgment to make changes of any nature in its programs, calendar, or academic schedule whenever it is deemed necessary or desirable, including changes in course content, the rescheduling of classes with or without extending the academic term, canceling of scheduled classes or other academic activities, in any such case giving such notice thereof as is reasonably practicable under the circumstances.

While each student may work closely with an academic advisor, he or she must retain individual responsibility for meeting requirements in this catalog and for being aware of any changes in provisions or requirements.