The Department of Philosophy at Mary Immaculate College (MIC) is set to host a special conference in celebration of 60 years of Philosophy at the College.
This milestone event will bring together former and current philosophy students from both the Faculty of Arts and the Faculty of Education, along with Philosophy staff and friends, for an evening of talks and dialogue on the relevance and significance of philosophy in today’s world.
The Department of Philosophy was founded in 1978, though philosophy has been taught to those studying at MIC to become teachers since the Academic Year 1964-65. Since then, the Department has expanded to offer a number of undergraduate modules and postgraduate research programmes.
Dr Daniel Vázquez, Head of the Department of Philosophy, said:
“As we celebrate 60 years of philosophy being taught at Mary Immaculate College, we want to celebrate the rich history and legacy of dedication and academic excellence built by previous staff and students and continued by our current and vibrant community in both our Faculty of Arts and the Faculty of Education. Over the past six decades, our staff and students have made significant contributions to philosophy, both in Ireland and beyond, committed to the idea that philosophy is a common good, an essential discipline for teachers of all subjects, professionals of all kinds, and, more generally, for a flourishing democratic and reflective society. This milestone is not just a reflection of our achievements but also a commitment to the future—here's to the next 60.”
Professor Bill Leahy, Dean of the Faculty of Arts added:
“In commemorating this milestone, we reflect on the impact the discipline of philosophy has had on our students, our scholarship, and the wider community here at MIC. Philosophy encourages critical thinking, ethical reflection, and a deeper understanding of the world around us—qualities that remain just as vital today as they were six decades ago. This celebration is a testament to the dedication of our faculty, the curiosity of our students, and the enduring relevance of philosophical inquiry."
The conference takes place on Wednesday 12 March, 2–6.30pm in room G10 in the Foundation Building, MIC Limerick campus. This event is free, but anyone hoping to come is asked to register through the link below.
Click here for more information and to register for 60 Years of Philosophy at MIC conference.
