The Philosophers' Café: The Examined Life, with Lisa Lamson

The Philosophers' Café brings university students and community members together for rich conversation in an unusual format. Hosted by UWGB Philosophy professor Robert Riordan, each discussion will feature a theme relevant to "The Examined Life." Following from Socrates' famous dictum, "the unexamined life is not worth living," what does it mean to live an examined life? These discussions are free and open to the public, giving community members a chance to participate in one of the features of an ongoing philosophy course. For students, the Philosophers' Café provides an opportunity to discuss ideas beyond the artificial boundaries of the university classroom.

This evening's discussion will be led by Dr. Lisa Lamson, Assistant Teaching Professor of History and Humanities, on the theme, "Why We Fight About History." We argue about statues, textbooks, and whose history gets taught but those fights aren't really about the past. They're about belonging: who gets to count as one of us, and whose story the country tells about itself. History isn't just what happened; it's how we learn who we are. This session is about why that makes the past worth fighting over.

These conversations will not be recorded or offered virtually. Join us for great discussions, face to face! Light snacks will be provided.