Can utopianism be salvaged? Should it be? For many, the answer is no. But there are reasons to suggest, claims philosopher Espen Hammer, that a fully modern society cannot live without a utopian consciousness. But even if we were to adopt this stance, we must do this with caution. What preoccupies our utopian imagination is of utmost importance.
Philosophy is often taught and conceived of as nothing more than an intellectual pursuit — concerned only with knowledge and understanding. But is it more than that? Many ancient philosophical traditions (and several contemporary thinkers) felt philosophy to be a worthwhile task not just because of its ability to help us understand ourselves and the world around us more deeply but also because of its ability to help us become better people. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to discuss philosophy as a guide to life with the members of Big Sky Unitarian Universalist Fellowship.
Philosophy as a way of life has begun to re-emerge, thanks to the efforts of countless individuals — within and outside of formal academia — who have held tight to the belief that philosophy is and can be a guide to living well (in all that that entails). The NEH “Reviving Philosophy as a Way of Life” Summer Institute — led by Professors Meghan Sullivan, Steve Angle & Stephen Grimm and attended by a diverse group of scholars (of which we were lucky enough to be a part!) — is a vibrant example of a movement to re-align the seating arrangements (no more back seat for you practical side of philosophy!) and revive philosophy as the art of thinking and living well. To have been selected to participate in the National Endowment for Humanities Summer Institute was a tremendous honor! We are grateful for the amazing opportunity and to everyone in the PWOL/Stoa family!
We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to be interviewed by the Helena Independent Record about our 3-part philosophy symposium series on the environment, ethics & stewardship, the first of which will take place on Sept. 20th 2018 and will focus on philosophical issues and perspectives related to public vs. private lands & rights and responsibilities.
We are delighted to welcome Jonathan Drake as one of the newest members to the Merlin Volunteer Crew. A Helena native, Jonathan received his B.A. in Religious Studies from the University of Montana and is volunteering while he applies to graduate school to further his study of new religious movements. As part of his volunteer work, Jonathan will be regularly contributing to the resources library of our website and assisting in several of our philosophy in the community events.
It is comforting to believe that our behavior is based upon our intentions and chosen beliefs. However, research into implicit bias suggests that this is decidedly not always the case. But what is implicit bias? And why should we be concerned with it? This article explores what is meant by implicit bias, what role it plays in our thinking and behavior, some of the philosophical dilemmas it presents, and offers an opportunity to test your own implicit biases.
Our 2018 Think on the Links Golf Tourney was a blast! Thanks to the generosity and support of our community sponsors and donors, our volunteers, and our golfers for coming out to partake in the fun, we were able to raise $928.01 for philosophy in the community!
Our 3nd Annual Think on the Links was a blast! Check out all of the great photos, winning teams, pin-prize champs, donors & sponsors, proceeds raised, and more here!
By investing in philosophy, you are investing in community. Please don your toga by making a tax-deductible donation today and/or by becoming a sustaining donor! Click on the yellow donate button to donate via PayPal, the blue donate button to donate via Moonclerk, or donate via QR code.
Learn more about our 2024-2025 special public philosophy project on homelessness.
Want to help bring a new program to the Helena & Mountain West communities? Our Community Hubs project is an innovative vision for public humanities that re-centers community as a place of learning. Learn more about our vision & how you can help support it here!
Think philosophy is impractical, pointless, out-of-reach, or irrelevant? Think again! Want to know more about what philosophy involves
(or what it doesn't) and how it can help you find your way?
