2022 Philosophy Symposium: The Military Experience & Culture

Our philosophy symposium on the military experience & culture was part of our 2022 philosophy symposia series supported in part by grants from Humanities Montana and The Philosophy Learning and Teaching Organization. In this symposium led by guest speaker (Retired) Lieutenant Colonel Elizabeth Barrs, we explored perspectives on military life & culture for active duty members and veterans, as well as family members and loved ones (who are also “on duty” in an important sense). Access audio-video, resources & photos here!

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Philosophy Workshop: “Transformative Experiences”

Some experiences in life are so significant, so profound, so intense, that after we go through them, there’s a very real sense in which “we’re not the same person we used to be.” That might involve a change in how we understand ourselves or the world, or in what we value or take to be important. In this workshop, we developed some basic concepts and categories, that might help us make sense of these transformative experiences. We also pointed toward some of the bigger philosophical questions that are lurking behind the problem of transformative experience, including rational choice, personal identity, and freedom & the Good. Access the session recording & other resources here!

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Merlin Student Scholar Fellow: “If Socrates Were a Psychiatrist…”

Inspired by her interest in philosophy & psychiatry, Merlin Student Scholar Fellow Julianna Breit explores some of their similarities & differences and how practitioners in both are obsessed with “The Good Life.” Read her 2021 research & writing work here!

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“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!

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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!

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Philosophy Workshop: “Talking About Stoicism”

In this workshop we explored the philosophical & historical roots of Stoic philosophy, some of its central theses, its modern revival, and how it manifests as philosophy as a way of life. Access resources and sessions recordings here!

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Philosophy Workshop: “Rewilding”

In this workshop we explored rewilding from the context of ecology and philosophy with Christopher Preston. Access resources and sessions recordings here!

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Philosophy Workshop: “Death & Meanings of Life”

In this workshop we explored death and various attitudes and perspectives on the meanings of life through the lens of historical philosophy with Julia Jorati. Access resources and sessions recordings here!

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