the Philosophy Minor Mission Statement
In alignment with the institutional and Humanities’ missions, this minor program is dedicated to the development of students who are capable of rational evidence-based argument, even-handed consideration of diverse viewpoints, informed appreciation for and effective use of various intellectual histories, and ethical yet analytical decisions. This era of rapid technological and media related change, information proliferation, and global interdependence creates ever-changing cultural, economic, and political situations calls for professionals and citizens who can adapt while maintaining informed convictions, results achievable by an education in the Humanities, and Philosophy in particular. To achieve this, the Philosophy Minor commits to utilizing the cooperation of various members of the faculty from diverse traditions and areas of study to challenge students by introducing a wide array of perspectives and methodologies, yet consistent with academically rigorous discourse.
Dr. Jack Byham, Assistant Professor
Office: AIC 327 Phone: 956-326-2632 Email: jack.byham@tamiu.edu
Dr. Byham's general research interests include the history of political philosophy and American politics. Within the field of political philosophy, Dr. Byham is interested in the contrast between the ancients, such as Plato and Aristotle, and the moderns, in particular Hobbes and Locke.
Dr. Jonathan Murphy, Associate Professor and Department of Humanities Chair
Office: AIC 378 Phone: 956-326-2602 Email: JONATHAN.MURPHY@TAMIU.EDU
Dr. Murphy’s research interests lie in Literary Theory and Philosophy, are wide-ranging, and extend from Plato to the present. Dr. Murphy's doctoral research focused on the influence of Greek, French, German, and British Idealism on the American Romantics. His current book project, "At the Tomb of the American Renaissance," examines how the American Romantics wed their metaphysical ideas of America with the geopolitical realities of the nation they inhabited.
William Nolen, Instructor and Coordinator of the Philosophy Minor Program
Office: AIC 324 Phone: 956-326-2660 Email: william.nolen@tamiu.edu
Mr. Nolen's interests lie in researching Plato, the American Transcendentalists, 19th-21st Century Continental Thought, the Legacy of Horror in American Literature, 19th Century Criticism of Western Utopianism, Cultural Studies Focusing on Dystopian and Apocalyptic Texts
Dr. Alfonso R. Vergaray, Assistant Professor and Director of International Leadership
Office: AIC 323 Phone: 956-326-2604 Email: alfonso.vergaray@tamiu.edu
Dr. Vergaray's general research interests in philosophy include Spinoza, liberalism and its critics, issues of freedom and determinism, and liberatory struggles in the Americas..
Recommended Reading:
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TAMIU Killam Library's Philosophy Research Guides!
