Research - Philosophy

Young Asian man with glasses looking through a book in front of a wall of bookshelves while a woman behind also browses the books.

The Department of Philosophy is a centre of research excellence. We have a wide-ranging and successful postgraduate programme. We are also home to the Nottingham Centre for Social Philosophy.

In the REF 2021, the panel graded over 80% of the department's publications internationally excellent, including over 40% rated as world leading.

'The Thinker' by Rodin - image shows a bronze statue on a marble plinth of a man resting his chin contemplatively upon his hand. The background shows a pale stone courtyard with a line of columns along one wall

Clusters

Research specialisms within the Department

Two female students working together on a piece of work in front of a computer

Projects

Explore our research projects

Diverse group of young people sat outside talking on a sunny autumn day beneath trees.

Networks

Research centres, networks and collaborations

People

Find an expert in a specific research area

Events

Research seminars, talks, and conferences

Female undergraduate student selecting a book from a shelf in Rutland Hall, University Park

Degrees

Research and study programmes

I like to compare philosophy with physical exercise: you need to be disciplined, focused, to have good stamina, and practise it daily. As with regular exercise, you soon see the benefits in students – their minds clearer, their arguments sharper, their insights keener. They slowly become intellectually fit, capable of stronger arguments, able to move heavier ideas – that’s why I like teaching it.

Ian James Kidd, Assistant Professor

Find out more about research ethics

Full REF 2021 information