Severance and the Self
A spoiler-free discussion of memory, personal identity, and the splintering of the self on Apple TV’s hit show, Severance.
The Ethical Crises of Immigrant Detention in the US
What kinds of ethical principles should inform the relationship between the state and immigrants? How can ethical perspectives inform a critique of state violence against immigrants in the U.S.? This talk considers how a framework of normative ethics can inform an analysis of immigrant detention law in the United States.
The Philosophy of Bicycling
Many people have stopped into the Vermont Bicycle Shop for a tube, fix a squeaky brake, meet up for a group ride, or to get a brand spanking new bicycle. In a twist on what you normally do at the shop we will be taking a philosophical exploration of bicycling. What is a cyclist? Should you be bicycling instead of driving? Is there something spiritual about cycling?
The Tao of Ethics
We will explore the "easy" Taoist approach to natural ethics—an elegant morality without supernatural authority. Taoist “worship of nature” is really veneration of the natural way of things and emphasizes living in harmony with the flow of existence. In our discussion, we will start to uncover an ethical system that is intuitive, adaptive, and rooted in the way things unfold in the world around us.
Philosophical Debate
Join local high schoolers to talk about philosophy as an extracurricular activity and Ethics Bowl, a national philosophical competition.
Co-ops and the American Myth of the Rugged Individualist
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Thinking About Sticks
Sit around a fire to think about sticks and talk about how noticing things, and bringing curiosity and creativity to your experiences, adds psychological richness to your life. This event will be held in the Sacred Circle, approximately 50 yards from the trailhead parking lot. As long as the roads are safe enough to drive up the mountain, and there is not a downpour, this event is happening! Dress weather appropriate and bring a chair/blanket if you like; limited bench seating is available.
"Should Patients Be Patient?" and Other Questions of Health-Related Ethics
Most debates about medical ethics deal with what practitioners ought to do. In this round-table discussion, a former UVM philosophy student and current cancer patient will pose questions to the group about the responsibilities of patients. Post-talk drinks at Three Penny Taproom.
Self, Identity, and Why Fernando Pessoa Was the Four Best Portuguese Poets
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
The Twilight Zone Examined
Join Dr. Mike and Bethany for an interactive, philosophical exploration at the intersection of truth, power and obsolescence in The Twilight Zone. This program includes a full screening of season 2, episode 29 ‘The Obsolete Man’, showcasing librarian Romney Wordsworth’s dramatic resistance to a totalitarian state that has, “like every one of the super-states that’s preceded it,…one iron rule: Logic is an enemy and truth is a menace.”
Animal Testing in the Modern World: Ethical Questions and Solutions
We will explore the complex moral dilemmas surrounding the use of animals in scientific research and the emerging alternatives that seek to reduce harm while advancing scientific progress.