President’s Welcome
A message from the president of the 341st session of the University Philosophical society: Liam Corcoran.
The University Philosophical Society is the largest active student society in Ireland. With over 10,000 members across Trinity College Dublin, we engage over half of the college population by providing an unparalleled experience in discourse and debate. In a dynamic college environment with a revolving student body, the Phil has maintained an exceptional level of student engagement with events that showcase and empower the most talented students Trinity has to offer.
The Phil's reach and reputation is the product of our members. Based in the GMB, we attract Trinity’s most ambitious and high-achieving students — from law and economics to the arts and sciences. Our flagship weekly debates regularly bring 300 students to chamber every Thursday, featuring our members and frequent collaborators around the college and beyond, including Oxford, Harvard and the European Parliament. Furthermore our Honorary Patronage series brings world leaders, cultural icons, and global innovators to campus, recent honourees including President Joe Biden, Apple CEO Tim Cook, Michael D. Higgins and EU Parliament President Roberta Metsola.
These landmark events are amplified by one of the most influential student-led digital platforms in Ireland. The Phil commands the largest social media presence of any Irish student society, with our content reaching over 2 million viewers across platforms—bringing Trinity’s voice into global conversations.
This all rests on a foundation built over centuries. Founded in 1683, the Phil is the oldest student society in Ireland, with a record of alumni that features Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker, Mary Robinson, David Norris and Leo Varadkar. Our members not only shape the culture and success of Trinity today, but go on to actively shape Ireland’s political, cultural, and intellectual life in the future.
We look forward to seeing you. Welcome to the Phil.
Guest Speakers
Every year, we invite a wide range of public figures to address our members and are named Honorary Patrons of the Society for their outstanding contributions to their field. Members of the University Philosophical Society can attend any of these events for free and hear from these amazing individuals. Over our 340 years, our chamber has welcomed literary greats, leading political figures, actors, athletes, musicians, journalists, and more to the Graduates’ Memorial Building.
Past guests:
Jia Tolentino
Jonathan Anderson
Whoopi Goldberg
Stephen Colbert
Ash Sakar
Bernie Sanders
Sponsorship Opportunities
This year we look to continue to excel with your support. The largest we’ve ever been, the Phil looks to expand our social media production platform to new heights, expand our alumni network with an established fund, develop opportunities to engage our women and gender minority membership, and create stronger ties to cultural institutions across Ireland and abroad.
We’re looking for a sponsor that aligns with our values; developing young talent, shaping national conversations and creating defining college experiences. We offer meaningful partnership opportunities across our events, digital content, and on-campus visibility—ensuring your company is not only seen, but remembered.
For inquires, please contact treasurer@tcdphil.com