Philosophy in Daily Life: An Ignatian Approach to the Examined Life

July 7-17, 2025 Rose Hill

Non-Credit Course

This is a Community-Engaged Learning course with on- and off-campus experiences and opportunities.

Ancient philosopher Socrates asserted that "the unexamined life is not worth living." Medieval philosopher Thomas Aquinas believed that "the things that we love tell us what we are." The founder of the Jesuits, Ignatius of Loyola, said "that which makes you feel the most alive in what you do is where God is." 

Spending time to unpack, situate and challenge the philosophical self can make daily life more intentional and meaningful. This introductory course surveys major philosophical ideas throughout the ages and asks the question: What does my philosophy of daily life look like, and should it change? We study excerpts of primary texts, reflect on practical examples of philosophy today (culture, music, film, belief systems), engage in Ignatian reflective practices and share our own life lessons. Since this is a Community-Engaged Learning course, we also collaborate with neighborhood partners in and out of class in discussions, service projects and teamwork modules while having fun in NYC. No prior background in philosophy needed.

Skills/Learning Outcomes

Students will:

• Better understand the value of logical thought and civil discourse in daily life.

• Critically challenge and respond to varied philosophical worldviews.

• Sharpen one’s practical reasoning skills in order to make better life decisions.

• Cultivate habits of self-awareness and reflection as a young adult today.

• Transform into a more confident thinker, writer and speaker in daily scenarios.

• Practice key Ignatian teamwork “soft skills” in preparation for college.

Overall Takeaways

Steeped in the Jesuit educational way of proceeding, this course guides high school students to unpack, situate and challenge their thought processes, analytic skills and philosophical worldviews as they prepare for college and young adulthood. We follow the Ignatian model of engaging the head (intellect/curiosity/imagination), heart (beliefs/convictions/values), and hands (contemplation-in-action in daily life).

Instructor Bio

In more than 20 years at Fordham, Robert J. Parmach, Ph.D., has worked to incorporate Jesuit values, teachings, and practices in all of his roles. His positions have included first-year class dean, professor, leader of the Manresa Scholars program, and Global Outreach Service Immersion leader. In his role as the inaugural director of Ignatian mission initiatives in the office of the vice president for mission integration and ministry, Dr. Parmach helps others across the University amplify the core principles of Jesuit education in their work and study.