Have We Lost Respect? A Socratic Conversation, Thursday, 3/26, 4-5pm

Inspired by Socrates' famous conversations with his friends in the marketplace of 5th century Athens, students engage in spirited discussions of ideas and issues. Socratic conversations range broadly and probe deeply into the basic challenges of life. They are informed by the latest literature for reference and follow up. While building a sense of community on campus, these meetings enliven the intellectual atmosphere and model dialogue and discussion as modes of inquiry.

Health: A Socratic Conversation, Thursday, 3/5, 4-5 pm

The dream of equity in health care by the end of this century has captured the imagination of thinkers, activists, and practitioners – as will be on display here on campus March 6 and 7 at the Fourth Annual Health Disparities Conference. Does this dream move you?

Come share your awareness, concern, thoughts and insights:

• What is your experience with equity or inequity in health?



• Should one’s health depend on one’s wealth?



• Do you believe that every life is equally valuable? Do we act that way, personally and collectively?



• What is being done and could be done to achieve equity in health worldwide?



• What is your role as an educator and a citizen, in achieving equity in health?

Why Socrates? He engaged in lively, important conversations, exemplifying the values of dialogue and discussion. Socrates is an iconic figure in Education - but he transcends the profession in Western intellectual history.

Have We Lost Respect? A Socratic Conversation, Thursday, 3/26, 4-5 pm

Do we need to re-vitalize the concept and practice of Respect in our personal relationships, in our families, in our professions, and in our schools? Can we re-capture the spirit which made Aretha Franklin’s rendition of the song “Respect” an anthem of the Civil Rights and Women’s movements? (This Conversation complements Women’s History Month, March news displays, and the presentation by Penny Colman on Celebrating Women.)

Come share your thoughts:

• On what basis do you respect others – and how do you look for respect from them?



• Is respect innate or earned? A right or a reward? Hierarchical or egalitarian?



• Are there any people or ideas so repugnant to you that you cannot accord them any respect? How do you feel about students who shout down speakers…or journalists who throw shoes? How do you we distinguish disrespect from passionate criticism and protest?



• What is the relation between respecting others, and self-respect?



• How is the practice of respect learned or acquired?



• What is the role of Respect in education – between students and teachers, among professionals, and with parents?

Why Socrates? He spent his life in dialogues that led people to respect changes in their thinking, action, and values.

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These highly-participatory conversations with fellow students are moderated by Ronald Gross, author of Socrates' Way and Co-chair of the University Seminar on Innovation in Education. They are part of a year long series of Socratic Conversations hosted by the Gottesman Libraries.

To assure yourself a spot, complete with diet hemlock and cookies, please RSVP to libary@tc.edu.

Next session: Thursday, 4/2, 4pm, Topic: TBA

Where: Second Floor Salon