Department of PhilosophyPhilosophy 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.
-
Penn Ethics Bowl Team Qualifies for Nationals
December 1, 2025
Penn Ethics Bowl Team (coached by Sam Fritz) has qualified for nationals! After coming in third place behind William and Mary and Yale, Penn will be competing in St. Louis in March at the Intercollegiate Ethics Bowl National Competition. Over 300 teams compete nationally, and only 36 teams make it to the national competition. Congratulations!
Read more »more news
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.