By Sophia Byl
For overthinkers, existentialists, and people who just like to think (what even is thinking in the first place?), Philosophy Forum serves to be the place where you can lay out all the muddled-up thoughts you may be having over a complex issue. Come have discussions with others who like to overthink just as much as you, as you navigate the treacherous yet fulfilling waters of the field of philosophy.
Philosophy, as a fundamental subject, is heavily stigmatized today in academia. People see the word “philosophy” and assume that all the deep thinking was done by all the old Greek guys in togas thousands of years ago. But thinking philosophically is never a task that is truly finished. Ethical dilemmas always seem to arise, or someone else in the forum may point out a faulty bit in your thought process. Whatever the problem, Philosophy Forum strives to solve them together in order to answer, even if just partially, some big philosophical questions.
The initial organizational meeting for Philosophy Forum was Tuesday, September 17th, but don’t fret if you weren’t able to make it – just like Newspaper Club, you can come to Philosophy Forum as little or as much as you want. You need only take part in the discussion if you want; anyone is welcome to join simply for listening purposes.
Many ideas were pitched at the meeting as to what the first possible discussion topic would be for the forum. Ranging from ethical questions, to big existential topics, to specific points on aesthetics and beauty, they all provoked further discussions from members of the forum. Among them were:
- How do we know the life we’re living isn’t all just a dream?
- Voltaire once said, “Every man is guilty of all the good he did not do.” What determines guiltiness, and can you be guilty for something you didn’t do?
- How do human rights differ from animal rights? Where is the line drawn when it comes to certain issues?
- The Native Americans didn’t believe in land ownership, while that same concept determined many social standards of European society. What does it mean to own something, both tangible and intangible?
- Can cannibalism be ethical? Could it be a way of solving overpopulation while also feeding the hungry?
If you have an interest in exploring another sort of philosophical issue, we’re always accepting new members and ideas! From art to AI, ethics to aesthetics, Philosophy Forum hosts discussions for everyone.
Keep a lookout for the Philosophy Forum posters in the stairwells and Commons, as well as the announcements in the morning and on WITS. We meet every other Tuesday after school in Room 306, though we are subject to change the date if you have any schedule conflicts and are an aspiring member.
See Mr. Miranda with any questions!