In both Philosophy and Religious Studies, students learn to grapple with the great questions of human existence, explore the world's various systems of belief, and examine their own values. As a result, students develop valuable skills in critical thinking, reading, and writing, and they learn how to use these skills to solve realworld problems.The Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies also sponsors a number of public lectures, conferences, workshops, and publications to encourage the ongoing discussion of religious, philosophical, and ethical issues.