Join Philosophy Club!

Photo courtesy of Knight’s Life Editor, Gillian McDonnell

Free books located within the philosophy department. Go take a look!

Did you know that SUNY Geneseo has a philosophy club?

As Vice President of the club and a philosophy major, I thought that it was only fitting that I write my first article of the semester promoting the club. Every Thursday at 7 p.m. in Welles 111, students from all majors and professors from various departments gather to discuss diverse philosophical topics, engaging in friendly discussions and debates. The philosophy club is a space where students from diverse academic backgrounds can come together, sharing their unique perspectives and areas of expertise. 

Even if you have no prior knowledge, but you have an interest in the subject of philosophy, you are welcome and encouraged to join! Past topics have included religion and contemporary issues, luck and success, morality, nonviolence and civility, Native American philosophy, and much more.

Until recently, the format of the meetings typically began with a short presentation by either a student, professor, or guest speaker, followed by conversation and the sharing of ideas. This year, the club has an entirely new executive board, and the board is looking to make some changes. 

To improve club attendance and build a wider group of participants, we are planning a variety of meeting structures, rather than the typical short presentation followed by discussion. We plan to send a short reading to the club email list prior to that week’s meeting, allowing for even more time for conversation. Ideas for readings and discussion topics from attendees are always welcome. In addition, on days when there is no specific topic, we will have fun, interactive philosophical prompts, philosophy-based games, and activities planned. Discussion topics, prompts, and activities will always be posted on the club’s Instagram and sent out via email prior to the meeting.

In an upcoming event on Friday, Oct. 17th, in collaboration with Geneseo Late Knight, the philosophy club will be hosting what we call an Ethics Slam! This is an exciting event where teams of students will be separated to discuss ethical views on responsibility in protecting the environment when entering the workforce, an important topic of discussion in today’s day in age. 

In addition, Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, is World Philosophy Day! The philosophy club and department are collaborating to host a party where we will share good food and conversation with students and professors within the department. If you have any sort of interest in philosophy, this is a great opportunity to meet the department’s professors and students to get answers to questions you may have, or just meet new people.

Philosophy is a subject that is applicable to all fields of study, as it helps develop critical thinking, argumentation skills, reading comprehension, and problem-solving. There is a reason why philosophy majors, at 75%, are admitted to law school at a higher rate than any other college major.  

Follow the philosophy club on Instagram @geneseo_phil_club to stay updated on future club meetings and events within the department!