The Department of Philosophy is closely associated with the Department of Gender and Social Justice our staff administrates both programs and many of our faculty teach in both areas. For more information on the Gender and Social Justice Department visit their website
Philosophy addresses some of the most fundamental and difficult questions there are, such as:
- What is the nature of the human mind?
- What makes knowledge trustworthy?
- What are the standards of good reasoning?
- What is a just society?
- What is the best way to live?
Philosophy as an academic discipline attempts to answer these questions with a combination of creativity and analytical rigor.
News
Prof. Katy Fulfer Receives Distinguished Teaching Award- Honourable Mention
Katy Fulfer received an Honourable Mention from the University’s Distinguished Teaching Award committee. Congratulations Katy!
Philosophy mourns the loss of Distinguished Professor Rolf George
Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Philosophy Rolf George passed away on April 28th, 2025.
Donations in memory of Rolf George can be made to Support Waterloo or via cheque payable to the University of Waterloo. Please indicate in the open field online or on the cheque memo that your gift is in memory of Rolf George. Your contribution will help support the study of philosophy in tribute to Professor George’s enduring legacy.
New Publication from Katy Fulfer and Kim Hong Nguyen
The new publication, We Can Do Better: Feminist Manifestos for Media and Communication
Features a chapter by Katy Fulfer and Kim Hong Nguyen. Chapter 12: When White Feminists Become Mean Girls: Calling White Feminists In to Stop Gaslighting, Gatekeeping, and Girlbossing