On Tuesday 25th February, Lower Sixth Philosophers enjoyed an off-timetable day to participate in this year’s Young Philosophers’ Conference.
Writes Jacob R. (U6)
The event was hosted online and began with a talk from Prof. Suzannah Cornwall, professor of Constructive Theologies at the University of Exeter. As a theologian, she works to address contemporary issues particularly in the realm of sex, gender and sexuality. Her approach to the field of theology is summed by the phrase ‘The point is to change it’, as she seeks to reinterpret and reconstruct religious beliefs and practices in line with the contemporary challenges that increasingly surround religion. Her goal is seeking to construct a ‘living and dynamic’ theology that is responsive to the realities of the present world.
Stimulated by this introduction to the conference, we delved into our first philosophical discussions. The conference featured three simultaneous talks throughout the day, providing the opportunity to select various talks of choice. The range of conversation couldn’t have been more diverse, encompassing Classics, History, Politics, Art, Sociology, Science and Maths, all considered through the philosophical lens.
On feminism, the key questions posed were: What is the significance of Berger’s claim that ‘Men look at women, Women watch themselves being looked at?’, and ‘Can women adhering to the traditional gender and beauty norms be a feminist act?’ This discussion delved into the psychological reinforcers of patriarchy for both men and women through the pressures placed on individuals to conform to social ideals. The conclusions from these discussions were incredibly well thought out, albeit surprising, as it was suggested that despite the claim that they are appealing to the ‘male gaze’, women can be committing an inherently feminist act by adhering to the beauty standard.
In the realm of Science, the debate revolved around the inquiries: ‘Can metaphysics remain relevant in the modern age of scientific theory?’ and ‘Can an artificial system’s simulation of suffering be morally distinguishable from genuine suffering?’ Participants examined the nature of, and relationship between, science and metaphysics, while also grappling with the ethical implications of AI consciousness and whether morally significant suffering could exist beyond biological organisms. These discussions are particularly relevant in a time where the concept of consciousness and the mind are increasingly questioned considering the advancement of technology.
The classical idea of Plato’s ‘Philosopher Kings’ was also visited, with the central question asking whether such a ruler is needed in our society today, and the extent to which this would even be feasible. The discussion explored historical and contemporary perspectives on the viability of this Platonic ideal, which was particularly interesting when considering this in the context of the current political climate in the United States.
The day was rounded off with a final talk from Professor Christine Korsgaard of Harvard University, a specialist in Moral Philosophy, with an interest in the moral relationship between humans and animals. For this talk, we were joined by a Year 10 class, who are studying ethics as a part of their GCSE Religious Studies course. Both cohorts were able to apply the suggested strengths of Utilitarianism to their course with the help offered by the unique perspective of such an esteemed expert in the field.
