<p>I understand the Op’s concerns completely. Our D and S are moderate Republicans-I believe that is probably an oxymoron these days. Even at Furman during the 2008 Presidential election they felt as though they were in the minority. Our two want an open dialogue with anyone with different views from theirs, but do not want to be “shouted down”.</p>
<p>What about Boston College ( though am not sure of merit aid), or Marquette? Both Jesuit, but my impression is neither school has the Georgetown feel. Perhaps consider looking at something totally “outside the box” Georgia Tech’s Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts has several schools with Philosophy minors and international designators, where students spend about one year abroad studying in areas such as philosophy. Also take a look at Pepperdine-probably a closer fit with your philosophical views-an abundance of majors, and for many students, a lot of merit aid.</p>