Philosophy — from the Greek words for philo (to love) and sophia (wisdom), combining to ‘love of wisdom’ — is the study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language.
Massey University Philosophy offers diverse ancient and contemporary traditions in philosophy emanating from different parts of the world. Among the department’s specialities are philosophical views and approaches from North America, Europe, Asia, and the Pacific. Our faculty make contributions to the study of Buddhist and ancient Greek philosophy, and contribute to key debates in areas such as indigenous conceptions of justice, sex and sexuality, religion, and reasoning. Alongside world-leading scholarship in logic and perception, the department offers unique opportunities to study how philosophical traditions — whether ancient or emerging, local or remote — can engage with contemporary issues of great concern in the world. Faculty are currently doing work to address issues of healthcare ethics, environmental justice, populations, and consumption.