Thinking with Philosophy with the UNC-Chapel Hill Philosophy Department

Explore life’s most pressing questions alongside students from diverse life stages and backgrounds in this Spring 2025 series offered by the Philosophy Department at UNC-Chapel Hill in partnership with Chapel Hill Public Library. Together, we’ll reflect on timeless questions about the world, our place in it, and what it means to live a meaningful life. This is a chance to cultivate curiosity, share perspectives, and deepen your sense of wonder through thoughtful conversation and shared exploration.

What: Each session will involve collaborative small-group discussion, guided reflections, and optional resources for those who wish to delve deeper into the topics.

When: Wednesdays, February 5 to April 16 (except March 12) at 2:15pm.

Who: Open to the public and free of charge. People of all ages are welcome, whether or not you can attend every session.

Questions? Want to receive updates? Reach out to Professor Michael Vazquez at michael.vazquez@unc.edu.

Possible discussion topics

• Why think about philosophy? Why do so intergenerationally?
• Do we matter in the cosmos, and do we have free will?
• Is there an “authentic” self?
• Can a life be meaningful but unhappy?
• What marks art as ‘art,’ and who decides what is beautiful? 
• What is the point of education?
• What moral problems do new technologies like AI or DNA editing pose?
• How can we navigate the challenges facing democracy?
• Is it unethical to have children in a world facing climate change and other global crises?
• Should the needs of local human communities take precedence over wildlife conservation efforts, even if it leads to the extinction of certain species?
• Should social media platforms ban users for spreading misinformation, even if it limits free speech?
• Is it ethical to use animals in scientific research if it benefits human health?
• How should societies handle historical monuments that represent controversial or harmful aspects of the past?