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The Socratic Inquisition |
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Socrates, the father of western philosophy, taught us the meaning of free inquiry and intellectual honesty. He roamed the streets of Athens over two millennia ago, discussing philosophical issues with his fellow citizens. His goal was to distinguish between truth and opinion through the process of dialectic. He explored ideas with anyone who was interested. He held no office, founded no school, and accepted no money for his teaching. His relentless questions, however, often brought the cherished beliefs of the rich and powerful into doubt. He was rewarded for his dedicated search for the truth by the citizens of his polis with a charge of "corrupting the youth." He was tried, found guilty, and executed. His student Plato never forgave Athens for killing "the best of all men."
The Socratic Inquisition carries on the tradition Socrates began so long ago. Through the discussion of readings, films, and current topics, members grapple with the perennial questions of mankind -- What is justice? What is virtue? What is knowledge? -- and also test the logic of modern policies, procedures, and ideas in the crucible of Socratic dialectic.
ACTIVITIES:
1. Read and discuss
a. classical philosophical works.
b. articles from contemporary philosophical journals and magazines.
2. View and discuss films with philosophical themes. (ie. Memento, AI, Crimes and Misdemeanors, Lord of the Rings.)
3. Attend philosophical events at local colleges and universities -- seminars, colloquia, visiting speakers.
4. Attend meetings of the American Philosophical Association and affiliated groups.
5. Organize debates for Middle and Upper School assemblies.
6. Write editorials for the newspaper and GA web site.
7. Hold joint activities with the Ethics Club when interests intersect.
MEETING TIMES:
COMMENTS, SUGGESTIONS, REQUESTS?
Advisor: Craig Merow
(Club Credit) |
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