The College of Arts and Sciences and Department of Philosophy mourn the passing of Laurence Thomas, professor emeritus of political science and philosophy. Thomas died December 27 at age 76.

A world-renowned political and moral philosopher, Thomas authored over 80 articles and four books, including the highly-regarded essay "Being Moral and Handling the Truth."

Thomas joined Syracuse University in 1989. He had previously held appointments at the University of Notre Dame, the University of Maryland and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He also held visiting appointments at the University of Michigan, the University of Virginia, Harvard University, Oberlin College and the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned his Ph.D. in 1976.

In 1993, Thomas was named Syracuse University's Scholar-Teacher of the Year.

His funeral was held at Sisskind Funeral Chapel on December 31.