Each organization offers a unique look into the cultures and topics being shared and discussed throughout the university. This kind of dialogue is imperative to the social health of the community and even more important when the level of diversity in thought is visualized. It is necessary to pose questions and be open to a range of theories, and one organization in particular does an incredible job in doing what is needed. The WCU Philosophy Club is an organization dedicated to the pursuance of wisdom through active questioning.
The word philosophy means “the love of wisdom,” as philo means “to love” and sophy or sophos means “wisdom,” so it is no wonder why their group discussions are centered around the pursuit of wisdom. This organization holds a forum open to all those willing to step up on the podium to discuss while remaining welcoming to all those that may just want to watch and listen.
Kali Van Nostrand, president of the WCU Philosophy Club, has been with the organization for about three years. Van Nostrand discussed what the organization will look like when meetings are back in person, saying that “when we meet in person, we are able to do different activities such as have ethical fishbowl debates,” which is where “we would pull different argument topics from a fishbowl and then come up with arguments on the spot.”
She continued, saying that “we would also be able to have mini lectures of different branches of philosophy,” and how currently during the online environment, “we mainly have in-depth discussions about world events and try to come to an understanding.” The organization allows for members to teach each other during discussions and grow their knowledge so more in-depth conversations can take place.
In terms of events, Philosophy Club has had professors come to meetings and share different philosophies through unique presentations. Van Nostrand commented on the environment created in club meetings, saying she feels “that in a classroom setting, there is so much pressure to be right, but in the club, there is this sense of openness to explore with one another.” This environment extends to the professor guest speakers, where members can learn and grow from professors without the negative feelings that might come from a graded classroom setting.
Overall, Van Nostrand is “very grateful to have been able to be a part of this little community” and would like to shout out the organization’s advisor Dr. Main for their commitment and work for the Philosophy Club.
Tommy Johnston, a member of the organization, has been in Philosophy Club since this past fall semester. Johnston said that he “wanted to join the club since before he came to West Chester” because of his “great interest in philosophy since 10th grade.” He continued, saying that “I have kept coming to meetings because of the great discussions and respect everyone has for others ideas.” Johnston said that his time in the club so far has “only been positive,” and that “everyone that comes to the club is respectful and always brings interesting ideas to the table.”
Patrick Dennin, the current treasurer of the Philosophy Club, has been in the organization for about two years. Dennin said that “while in person, we would often have the leader show a presentation, teaching us about a branch of philosophy,” and that “while online, we have mostly had open discussions about whatever someone in the group was interested to talk about.” Commenting on his time in the club, he said how he has “met quite a few people that are very nice and fun” and that “people in the group tend to be really” great individuals.
Overall, the WCU Philosophy Club is an amazing organization if you are into deep discussions, whether you participate or are just there to listen. You do not have to be a philosophy major or minor to be a part of this outstanding group — just an interest in expanding your wisdom and knowledge. By building on each other’s ideas, each member gains new insight and perspective on life through the conversations and presentations that occur at each meeting.
Academic Makeup:
- Majors: Philosophy, Secondary Education and English Literature, Computer Science
- Minors: English Literature, Art History, Philosophy
Evan Brooks is a third-year Business Management major with minors in Economics and Civil & Professional Leadership. EB916132@wcupa.edu