Philosophy has been taught at the University of Pennsylvania since 1755, when the bachelor of arts degree was first offered. The first teacher of philosophy was William Smith, Provost of the newly founded Academy of Philadelphia. At that time, logic, metaphysics, moral philosophy, and natural philosophy formed the core of the College curriculum.
Philosophy at Penn
Tribute to Hilary Putnam, C’48, HON’85
Jonathan D. Moreno is the David and Lyn Silfen University Professor at the University of Pennsylvania where he is one of sixteen Penn Integrates Knowledge professors. At Penn he is also Professor of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, of History and Sociology of Science, and of Philosophy.
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Professor Jennifer Morton awarded the 2023 Grawemeyer Award in Education
December 9, 2022
Congratulations to Professor Jennifer Morton, the 2023 recipient of the Grawemeyer Award in Education! This is an incredibly prestigious honor, that recognizes Dr. Morton’s work on the ethical sacrifices made by first-generation and low-income university students.
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Department History
Philosophy has been taught continuously in the University of Pennsylvania and its predecessors since 1755, when the bachelor of arts degree was first offered. The first teacher of philosophy was William Smith, first Provost of the newly founded Academy of Philadelphia. The various branches of philosophy, which included logic, metaphysics, moral philosophy, and natural philosophy, formed the core of the College curriculum.