Philosophy

The Pursuit of Truth

Philosophy explores the questions that have intrigued human beings throughout history: What is the nature of reality? What is truth? How can we know something and be certain of it? What is the nature of God? Do I have obligations to others? What are the foundations of civil society?

Every person is a philosopher of sorts and studying philosophy is a great way to bring out the philosopher in you. A philosophy major or minor is an excellent supplement to any course of study. Philosophy students learn critical and creative thinking skills that serve them well throughout their lives.

Philosophy Is Ideal For Those Who:

Enjoy contemplating deep questions.
Articulate their thoughts well.
Are stimulated by discussion and debate.
Want to broaden and deepen their understanding.
Appreciate critical thinking.

Find Your Career

Philosophy Careers Include: teaching, writing, law, journalism, politics, ethics, bioethics.

Meet the Faculty

Chad Maxson

Dr. Maxson has a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Olivet Nazarene University and is ABD in his second doctorate in Theological Studies from Vanderbilt University. His research area is convergence of French phenomenology and liberation theology around the theme of transcendence. He has additional research interests related to influence of Medieval theological commitments to voluntarism and nominalism on contemporary philosophical and theological thought. He also runs the Tiger Den Dojo, which provides instruction in traditional Japanese ninjutsu. he is the father of twins and resides in Bradley, IL.

Philosophy Faculty

Departmental Honors

Independent research is an integral part of degree programs, especially for students who plan to enter graduate school. Under the guidance of two faculty mentors, students design a two-semester long research project to present to the faculty. Those who pass will receive departmental honors and 4 hours of Master level credit.

Study Abroad

More than a dozen study abroad programs provide the opportunity for learning in other cultural and academic settings.

Study Abroad

Missions Work

Missions in Action (M.I.A.) sponsors student mission trips to serve people living on the continents of Asia, Africa, South America, as well as in the U.S.

Missions in Action

Visit Olivet

The best way to discover all that Olivet has to offer is to schedule your personal, customized visit. Learn how an Olivet engineering degree will shape your future.

Schedule a Visit

Where Are They Now?

Benjamin Geeding studied Music, Philosophy, and Religion while an undergraduate student here at Olivet. After completing a Master of Arts in Christian Thought at Olivet, Ben was accepted at Yale. In 2019, he completed a Master of Philosophy in Religion/Philosophical Theology. In the fall of 2020, he will begin work on a Master of Divinity at Yale.

"The [Theology] department nurtured my academic interests, evoked my vocation to teach, and provided a strong grasp of both theological and philosophical trajectories, concepts, and histories. Specifically, Dr. Lowery and Dr. Frisius pushed me to question theological normatively and personally assisted my intellectual development."

Ben works as Minister of Youth and Pastoral Care at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Darien, CT with his wife, Christine, who is also an Olivet graduate and serves as the Director of Christian Education.

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