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Department of Philosophy College of Arts and Sciences

Why Study Philosophy?

Does free will exist? Can computers think? Is there a God? What is the meaning of life? Is abortion morally wrong? Can anyone really know anything at all? By studying such difficult questions, students of philosophy learn to read texts carefully, analyze concepts, draw careful distinctions, recognize hidden assumptions, construct and critique arguments, and explain complex ideas. These are valuable skills for all kinds of professions.

Major in PhilosophyFacultyCareers

What is Philosophy


As a pre-medical student, I truly appreciate how my professors have made the information relevant and personal to my interest in both philosophy and life sciences. They are extremely supportive, kind, and have always pushed me both in my classes and in my outside philosophy endeavors.

– Tanvee Sinha ’21

Latest News

  • In Memoriam: Marjorie S. Price (1947-2024)
    The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Department of Philosophy recently lost one of its longtime faculty members when Dr. Marjorie Price passed away on May 30, 2024. Her final resting place is Temple Sholom Cemetery in Bridgewater, New Jersey.
  • Will AI take over human creativity? UAB philosopher offers insights
    Brainard does not think AI offers a substitute for human creativity at this time. AI has yet to compete with humans’ originality, a particular form of self-cultivation, connectedness and imagination.
  • Discussing philosophy of science with Marshall Abrams
    Marshall Abrams, Ph.D., associate professor in the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Department of Philosophy, teaches about and conducts research on philosophy of science. The College of Arts and Sciences recently sat down with Abrams to discuss philosophy of science, his courses, and his 2023 book titled Evolution and the Machinery of Chance: Philosophy, Probability, and Scientific Practice in Biology.
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