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Slide 1: Rodin's The Thinker
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Slide 2: Class of 2026
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Slide 3: Low
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Slide 4: iStock photo
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Slide 5: Phil Hall
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Slide 6: Nagel
Philosophy at Columbia University
The Department of Philosophy stands out for its ecumenical environment to support research and teaching in all the major subfields of the discipline at the highest level. It teaches lively and innovative sequences of historical and contemporary approaches. Epistemologists often work also in logic and metaphysics, while philosophers of mind frequently work in philosophies of language, cognition, and psychology. Ethics and aesthetics often join with legal, social, and political philosophy. Fields of contemporary research engage the history of philosophy back to Antiquity. While the Department with its specializations testifies to important boundaries between subfields, it encourages a cross-fertilization through debates over common problems: theoretical and practical. The cross-fertilization is evident within the department and without, in the university as a whole. Many members of the faculty of Philosophy are accordingly affiliated with Institutes, Centers, Seminars, and Committees of the University.
Department News
Joseph Karaganis named 2026 Columbia College Valedictorian
Congratulations to Joseph Karaganis! He has been selected by the Columbia College Committee on Honors, Awards and Prizes based on the strength, breadth, depth and rigor of his academic achievements, as well as his intellectual promise, character and achievement outside the classroom.
Professor Jessica Collins receives 2026 Lenfest Distinguished Faculty Award
Professor Jessica Collins is a recipient of the 2026 Lenfest Distinguished Faculty Award. The award recognizes Prof. Collins's long and sustained contributions to the intellectual life of the Department of Philosophy, the joyful and infectious passion for knowledge she imparts upon her students and colleagues, her breadth of teaching and exceptional mentorship, and her unwavering service to the department and the University for over three decades.
Nicole Meily, Director of Academic Administration & Finance, receives 2026 Division of Humanities Award for Community Building & Engagement
Nicole Meily is a recipient of the Division of Humanities Award for Community Building & Engagement. Given annually, the Divisional Awards recognize the essential role that faculty and staff play across the Arts and Sciences. Recipients are selected by divisional deans in consultation with department chairs, and winners are honored during the spring semester. The award recognizes Nicole’s work and dedication to our students, colleagues, and department.