evil Archives - Merlin CCC

Event

Short Reads: Punishment & Penalties

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

Philosophy Workshop: The Philosophy of Evil (October 2020)

In this2½-hour ZOOM philosophy workshop led by philosopher David Nowakowski, we investigated the philosophy of evil — both at the level of abstract concepts, and at the level of practical, everyday action. Access resources and reading recommendations here!

Philosophy ZOOM Workshop: Evil

In this 2½-hour ZOOM workshop led by David Nowakowski, we’ll explore evil. No background in philosophy is required to participate in this workshop. All ages welcome. FREE. $15-30 Suggested donation. Learn more & register here!

Frankenstein: Evil, Morality & Phronesis

Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein is a ubiquitous feature of popular culture, continuously adapted and revisited. Dr. Raymond Boisvert, Professor of Philosophy Emeritus, argues that Frankenstein endures because of its sophisticated treatment of morality. Victor, a brilliant thinker who sees science as a means of transcending natural limits, creates life (Frankenstein’s “monster”) only to demean and abandon his creation. But Boisvert argues that Victor is a complex figure — neither inherently evil, nor the product of a corrupt or evil society. Instead Victor’s failings can better be understood by examining two different ethical models: Evil as Absence & Evil as Banal.