Department of History, Philosophy, Politics and Economics
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The professors at PNW have always set clear expectations and shared information enthusiastically and engagingly. Discussion was not only had, but encouraged. Overall, the professors at PNW provided an experience that encouraged engagement and helped build connections.
My learning opportunities afforded to me in PNW's kind and welcoming environment have carried me well through graduate school, all the way to finishing my dissertation, acquiring a Ph.D. in Philosophy and becoming an assistant professor.
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News & Announcements
Purdue University Northwest students earn spring 2025 Dean’s List honors
The Purdue University Northwest (PNW) 2025 spring semester Dean’s List recognizes 1,746 undergraduate students for their academic achievements.
PNW alumni leading change in regional community leadership organizations
PNW graduates are part of the growing number of leaders making an impact in Northwest Indiana, heading organizations like the Regional Development Authority, South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority, Regional Health Systems, Center of Workforce Innovations and Urban League of Northwest Indiana.
Purdue University Northwest’s (PNW) 2025 graduates have poured countless hours into their persistent journeys to earn their degrees. On May 10, the culmination of over 850 candidates’ hard work was celebrated during PNW’s 2025 Commencement.
Important Dates
Aug 29
Fall 2025 Late RegistrationLate registration is the first week of classes – August 25 through 29.
Aug 29
Last Day for 100% Refund for Fall 2025Friday, August 29 is the last day to get a refund for full-term Fall 2025 courses.
Sep 01
Campus Closed: Labor DayThere will be no classes and the University will be closed in observance of Labor Day on Monday, September 1.
Sep 14
Deadline to Submit Fall 2025 Application to GraduateStudents completing their degree requirements in Fall 2025 are required to apply to graduate by Saturday, September 14.
Philosophy Magazine: Symphony of Reason - Spring 2024: Volume IV, Issue 1
The current issue (IV.1) of Symphony of Reason (SOR), PNW’s philosophy magazine, is produced after a one-year (2023) gap. It is, as Dr. Detmer says (in his Foreword), “especially rich in philosophical content.” Divided into six main subsections, it begins with a paper (by PNW student Savannah J. DeBoer) on the ethics of punishment, followed by two philosophical profiles – one each, on western philosophers Jean-Paul Sartre (by Dr. David Detmer) and Kierkegaard (by Prof. Hoon J. Lee).
Next, we have what Dr. Detmer calls a “provocative and enlightening” extended essay by former PNW professor Dr. Renee Conroy – on “aesthetics, the branch of philosophy that historically has dealt primarily with issues concerning the nature and value of art, and of the principles underlying our evaluation and appreciation of works of art.” This is followed by three short essays on abortion (by PNW students Kathleen Nielsen and Kaitlyn Vasilko and PNW alumnus Kayla Vasilko).
After this, Dr. Lee Artz’s critique of Dr. Deepa Majumdar’s essay (in SOR III.1, S 2022) on Mr. Putin’s 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, followed by her spirited reply. Finally, this issue ends with four philosophical poems – one by Prof. Subbarao Majety, and Kaitlyn Vasilko, and two by Kayla Vasilko.