Philosophy in the World

Philosophy in the World

The Department of Philosophy has a long and distinguished history of combining research excellence in core areas of philosophy with innovative work at the frontiers of the discipline as this intersects with matters of wider public concern.

We have a decidedly ecumenical outlook, regarding philosophy as a set of approaches and methods that can help us make sense of whatever is puzzling, perplexing or interesting in the world around us, which is why we take pride in maintaining a direct, hands-on connection to that world.

We work with local and regional partners such as the Bluecoat Gallery, Tate Liverpool, National Museums Liverpool, NHS North-West, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, as well as other colleagues and institutions further afield, to find applications for our work and to inspire our thinking and the practices of our communities and the wider world. Work in this vein includes the following projects:

The Psychology and Epistemology of Political Cognition The Psychology and Epistemology of Political Cognition

The Psychology and Epistemology of Political Cognition

How do people form views about contentious political issues such as the costs and benefits of immigration? What about scientific issues that are relevant to public policy such as climate change?

Philosopher-in-Residence Philosopher in Residence

Philosopher-in-Residence

The Philosopher-in-Residence scheme aims to help deliver an exciting programme of situated research through the professional development series “THINKING MATTERS”.

The Integrity Project

The Integrity Project

The Integrity Project investigates the value of integrity, and the price of doing without it.
Donation Research Network Donation Research Network

Donation Research Network

The goal of the Network is to elicit and share boundary-crossing ideas and perspectives on the nature of donation.

Need-Based Justice and Distribution Procedures Needs-based Justice

Need-Based Justice and Distribution Procedures

The objective of the research group is to empirically contribute to establishing a positive and informed normative theory of needs-based justice.

Marriage and the State Marriage and the State

Marriage and the State

In the UK, and in most countries, the state is deeply involved with the institution of marriage. Is this really the best relationship between the state and the institution of marriage, however?

Managing Knowledge of Genetic Relatedness in Donor Conception Managing Knowledge of Genetic Relatedness in Donor Conception

Managing Knowledge of Genetic Relatedness in Donor Conception

What kind of information should donor-conceived people be able to find out about their donor and donor-conceived siblings?

See also our Philosophy and the Future research theme

Our pioneering Philosophy and the Future research theme focuses on the ethical, political, social, metaphysical and spiritual implications of climate change, technological and scientific developments, and emerging forms of social and political interaction. Read more.