Badminton Hosts South West Philosophy Conference

The first lecture was delivered by Professor Bruce Hood - an expert in the field of experimental psychology at Bristol University. His research has led him to the conclusion that we are naturally ‘hard-wired' to be religious and that our tendency to see a divine agent at work in the world is a product of our tendency to see a purposeful pattern (such as cause and effect), even where there is none. This lecture was excellent extension, as well, for those considering studying psychology at university.  Secondly, Dr Darren Sheppard (Master of Scholars and Head of Department at Oakham School) spoke on Plato's philosophy. He gave a clear and precise presentation on Plato's Cave and the Divided Line, helped the students to see some of its strengths and weaknesses, as well as highlighting some common errors students make in essays on Plato. He put the Cave Analogy into the context of Plato's social location and wider philosophy, which was most enlightening for us all.

Esther D. Reed, an Associate Professor in the Department of Religion and Theology at the university of Exeter gave the next lecture: ‘Just War Ethics and Fourth Generation Warfare: Is the Tradition Exhausted?' This talk was a fascinating exploration of the difficulties faced in applying a traditional ethical theory to a very modern problem. Dr Reed explained to us just how much warfare has changed since WWI and that this had led some to claim that Just War Ethics were outdated. However, Dr Reed explained why she is arguing that they are needed more than ever. This lecture prompted some very interesting audience questions about recent interventions in Libya, Afghanistan and non-intervention in Syria.  Professor A.C. Grayling lectured next on The Meanings of ‘Philosophy'. Professor Grayling took us on a tour of philosophy's place in the history of education and made some very interesting observations about the ever shifting relationship between philosophy and science. We were also introduced to the new university he is setting up in London: The New College of Humanities. Students had the opportunity to discuss courses at this new and exciting secular institution, into which will feed some of the UK's best minds.

After lunch, the conference reconvened to hear a debate between Professor Keith Ward (Universities of Oxford & Heythrop College, University of London) and Dr Stephen Law (Heythrop College, University of London). These two speakers argued for and against the existence of God, respectively. The pupils found this debate to be engaging and benefited from seeing the mutual respect between the academically opposed speakers.  The event was a fascinating day and a great chance for pupils to meet and hear some of today's most renowned philosophers.