Do you want to study Eastern Philosophy in Hong Kong, grapple with German Idealism while studying in Germany, or learn about American Pragmatism while in the US? You can! The philosophy department at King’s has ties with many high-profile departments around the world, many of which complement our offerings. Even if you are not looking for any specific philosophies, studying abroad will teach you much. In particular, you will learn how philosophy is done elsewhere and how students study it in other countries.
For the full experience, you can spend the whole second year abroad. If you just want to get your toes wet, you can go for one term only. In either case, your studies abroad are fully integrated into your King’s degree. But beyond that, you will personally gain from studying abroad. When you come back, you’ll see the familiar world with different eyes – a truly philosophical experience.
PhilSoc is a student society that runs extra-curricular philosophy and socials throughout the year. We put on student-run reading groups and seminars, which take place either within the Philosophy building or across coffee shops and pubs in London. We organise an annual list of guest speakers, which have featured everyone from Daniel Dennett to Deleuze scholars.
We also run an annual Conference, featuring speakers from all across the country which is a great way to meet new people and get a chance to deliver some of your own philosophy. We also have a journal, Sancte et Sapienter, which publishes student’s work. We’re really fortunate at KCL to have a fantastic faculty who are always willing to get involved with the Society, as well as a fantastic department building where we have both a common room for lively debate, and our own Philosophy Bar for even livelier arguments as the evening goes on.
We also can provide help and advice to philosophy students, whether mixed or single honours, as well as hosting events with the UCL Philosophy Society. We have a really fantastic community that looks to make everyone feel at home and able to make the most of the department.
Once a year the Department visits Cumberland Lodge, a spacious 17th century house in Windsor Great Park. This is an occasion where undergraduate and postgraduate students can meet their lecturers, and each other, in an informal setting.
There is a varied programme for the weekend with a combination of student papers, a visiting speaker, a philosophy-themed pub quiz, informal discussions, impromptu sports games, and ample opportunities to socialize while walking the grounds of the park or lounging in the bar.