Short Reads: “The Historical Roots of Our Ecological Crisis”

Our “Short Reads” evenings explore a focused philosophical argument or theme, by way of a short (4–6 page) paper.  During the evening, we’ll step through the paper together, using it as the focal point for a lively and interactive conversation. Learn more & RSVP here.

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Loss & Legacy (Film & Conversation): Ancestors in Service

In this final installment of our loss & legacy series we’ll reflect upon our military and the ways in which we think about ancestors in service, as prompted by the WW1 memorial film “They Shall Not Grow Old.” Our film & community conversation will be held on Thursday, November 2nd from 6pm-8:30pm in Reeder’s Alley Convention Center and facilitated by community philosopher David Nowakowski. Water & hot tea provided. Bring a low-profile comfy lawn camping chair for the film if you’d like.  We’ll also have regular fold-out chairs available.  FREE and open to all members of the community. SPACE IS LIMITED.  RSVP & watch the film trailer here!

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Loss & Legacy (Symposium): How Do We Think About Our Ancestors?

In this symposium featuring Bill Milton, Ellen Baumler & Daniel Gardiner, and facilitated by David Nowakowski, we’ll consider different kinds of ancestry and lineage, extending beyond just family ties, to include our teachers and predecessors in the arts we practice, in our professional lives, and in our nation or other groups and organizations of which we’re a part.  We’ll ask the overarching question “How do we think about our ancestors?” in the context of legacy and the conversational space we participate in between the past and present.  FREE & open to all, our symposium will be held at the Helena Avenue Theater from 6pm-9pm on Thursday, October 19th.  SPACE IS LIMITED.  Learn more about our guest scholars and RSVP here!

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“Philosophy In & By the Community”: Merlin & Helena Community Members featured in Vernon Press Anthology

A 2021 Vernon Press anthology series edited by Stephen Kekoa Miller featuring eight chapters about doing philosophy in innovative ways, both in the schools and the community at large. In our chapter, “Philosophy In & By the Community,” we explore how Merlin CCC — with the help & support of community — has taken shape in interesting, delightful, and unexpected ways.  In the process, we discuss our approach to philosophy, the kind of work we do, and some of its characteristics…as well as the significance & beauty of community & place. Learn more here!

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