Facts & figures
Philosophy
- #2 in Australia
- #25 in the world
- 2020 QS World University Rankings
Facts & figures
Philosophy is about learning to think rigorously for yourself so you can defend your positions with considered reasons and cogent arguments. The study of philosophy improves an individual's ability to speak and write clearly, logically and convincingly. These broad skills, along with capacity for independent thought, are highly transferable, powerful aids to success in any profession.
In philosophy we ask deep, often counter-intuitive questions, and don’t mind if they lead to further, even more difficult questions. We encourage critical reflection and debate.
We are highly regarded for our research and teaching as well as our breadth and diversity. The Department of Philosophy at the University of Sydney is home to leading thinkers in a wide range of areas of philosophy, and we offer a rich and varied array of units taught by dedicated and enthusiastic scholars whose outstanding research informs their teaching at every level.
Philosophy formulates and explores questions of fundamental importance to us as human beings. For example: What is consciousness? Are we free agents? What makes an action right? What makes an action wrong? What is truth, and how can we come by it? How should we form beliefs about the world? Is it possible for machines to think? Studying philosophy will equip you with a disciplined capacity for critical analysis and dramatically enhance your communication skills.
*Available to all students studying the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Economics and Bachelor of Visual Arts, as well as all combined Bachelor of Advanced Studies degrees.
The Department of Philosophy offers critical thinking workshops for International Baccalaureate (IB) students.
In the interests of public health and to ensure the safety and wellbeing of students and staff during the current COVID-19 health alert, we have decided to postpone the March 20 and 27 Critical Thinking workshops
We apologise for any inconvenience.
If you would like more information or to enquire regarding future workshops, please feel free to contact us.
E | toner.stevenson@sydney.edu.au
P | +61 2 9351 2271
The aim of the David Harold Tribe Philosophy Award is to promote interest in philosophy and to help the recipient further their education, enabling them to develop their insights and to advance the general public’s understanding of philosophy.
Applications close Friday, 30 October 2020 at 4 p.m.
The award will be in the sum of $20,000 payable as a one-off payment
TERMS OF THE AWARD
This award is for an original published book, published not earlier than five years before the closing date by a person normally resident in Australia during the three years prior to the submission of the work
Anderson Fellowships are bestowed through a bequest of the estate of John Anderson (1893-1962), influential Australian philosopher and Challis Professor of Philosophy at the University of Sydney from 1927 to 1958.
The Anderson Bequest funds travel and expenses up to $17,500, consisting of $2500 airfare and $2500/week living allowance. Anderson Fellows will be provided with office space, library borrowing rights and other resources.
Anderson Fellows are expected to be present at the University of Sydney for the duration of their Fellowship and to make a substantial contribution to the academic life of the Department of Philosophy through collaborative research and contributions to the teaching program.
For further information, please contact our Research Support Officer.
Professor Peter Anstey
Professor Rick Benitez
Professor David Braddon-Mitchell
Dr Carl Brusse
Professor Mark Colyvan
Professor Moira Gatens
Emeritus Professor Stephen Gaukroger
Professor Paul Griffiths
Dr Brian Hedden
Professor Duncan Ivison
Professor Alexandre Lefebvre
Dr Kate Lynch
Associate Professor David Macarthur
Professor Kristie Miller
Dr Dalia Nassar
Associate Professor Luke Russell
Professor Nick Smith
Professor Anik Waldow
Undergraduate coordinator
Professor Rick Benitez
Honours coordinator
Dr Sam Shpall
Higher Degree Research coordinator
Professor Peter Anstey
The Deparment of Philosopy's seminars are moving online. If you would like to sign up for the Department's seminar series, please follow the link below.
Learn more about the University’s advice regarding COVID-19 here.
Sign up for the Sydphil mailing list and receive notifications of upcoming seminars.