Overview:
The Royal Institute of Philosophy’s annual Think Essay Prize, a prestigious national philosophy essay competition for students aged 15–18, is now open for submissions for 2026.
Students are invited to submit an essay of no more than 1,200 words, engaging critically and creatively with one of six set philosophical questions:
To what extent is knowledge of God possible?
If we live in a physically determined universe, is anyone ever morally responsible for what they do?
To what extent can science threaten religious and theistic belief?
Could a machine think and feel?
Under what circumstances is the State justified in restricting what we can say?
Is time travel logically possible?
Winning and shortlisted essays are published or featured in Think, a leading accessible philosophy journal read internationally. The winning entry will be published in the journal alongside writing from prominent philosophers, and shortlisted entrants receive a free annual subscription. Longlisted students receive additional recognition and prizes.
Entries will be assessed on philosophical rigour, clarity of argument, engagement with the chosen question, and independent thinking.
Word count: Maximum 1,200 words
Eligibility: Students aged 15–18, UK and international
Deadline:
The deadline is 20th April 2026.