Congratulations Julianna Breit: 2021-2022 Merlin Student Scholar Fellow

We are thrilled to announce our 2021-2022 Merlin Student Scholar Fellow, Julianna Breit. Julianna is our first undergraduate fellow. A junior at Carroll College, Julianna is double-majoring in Biochemistry and Philosophy with minors in Ethics and Value Studies, Neuroscience, and Chemistry. Her fellowship will involve a combination of research, writing, and philosophy in the community activities. Learn more about her & some of the projects she’ll be working on here!

Continue reading

October 2021 Philosophy Walk: “Justice as Fairness”

In this philosophy walk led by Ed Glowienka we explored justice as through the lens of fairness, freedom/responsibility, and equity — aspects of justice advanced by the late philosopher John Rawls.  While a summary of Rawls’ views were provided at the outset, as well as some of his working principles along the way, the bulk of our meandering was spent exploring, working out, expanding upon, and applying Rawls’ views in a “hands-on” way to the contemporary issues of environmental justice and international justice. Access audio recordings of our discussions and view pictures here!

Continue reading

“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!

Continue reading

Merlin Featured in APA: An “Into Philosophy” Series Interview

An American Philosophical Association special series by Jeremy Bendik-Keymer and the “Into Philosophy” Team. This interview with Merlin CCC Founder & Director, Marisa Diaz-Waian, is part of a collection of collaborative essays/mini-series called “Philosophy as a Way of Life.” Read the interview here!

Continue reading

Philosophy Workshop: “Beyond Mindfulness – Western Meditation Techniques in Theory & Practice”

In this workshop led by David Nowakowski, we explored three techniques of meditation with deep roots in Western spiritual, religious, and philosophical life and practice. We began with two simple exercises, popular among the ancient Pythagoreans and Stoics, for developing the power of recollection and preparing ourselves for challenging circumstances. Then we turned to a practice known as “discursive meditation.” Learn more & access resources here!

Continue reading