Philosophy series to ask if life is better in modern world

In an effort to bring philosophical issues to a wider pu blic, the Vanderbilt philosophy department will host a new speaker series in March designed to challenge audiences to consider whether life is getting better or worse in modern society, and whether the dream of continuing progress is still alive.

Vanderbilt philosophy professors John Lachs, John Compton and Gregg Horowitz will address "The Possibility of Progress" on alternate Thursdays beginning March 1. Each of the events will start at 7:30 p.m. in 103 Wilson Hall with a reception at 7 p.m. The addresses and receptions are all free and open to the public.

The series demonstrates philosophy's public mission to "excite, inform and help people critically reflect on their lives," said David Wood, series organizer and professor of philosophy. He said there is a real interest within the wider Nashville community in exploring life's deeper issues, and the Department of Philosophy sees the series as a way of extending its public outreach.

"[Philosophy can] help all of us examine the nature of our participation in society, so that we try to make our world the kind of world we want our kids to inherit," he said.

The lecture series is sponsored by the Cal Turner Program for Moral Leadership, the University Lecture Series, the Chancellor's Office and the Vanderbilt Department of Philosophy.

Philosophy Lecture Series

March 1

"Both Better Off and Better: Moral Progress Amid Continuing Carnage." Centennial Professor of Philosophy John Lachs will address the possibility of moral progress in light of the vast material advances and economic prosperity of the modern world. While some argue that growth of comfort leads to loss of character, Lachs will argue that economic progress makes important contributions to moral awareness. Chancellor Gordon Gee is scheduled to introduce the series and Lachs.

Lachs

March 15

"Knowledge and Power: Social Consequences of Scientific and Technological Change." Professor Emeritus John Compton will discuss the effects of recent scientific advancement on the way people relate to each other and the natural world. He will explore how the meanings of science, ethics, politics and the very concept of nature itself have changed in today's new scientific and technological era. Frank Sutherland, editor of The Tennessean, is scheduled to introduce Compton.

Compton

March 29

"New and Not Improved: Is There Progress in the Arts?" Associate Professor Gregg Horowitz will consider whether recent trends in art reflect broader cultural progress and ultimately reveal what will become of both art and society in the future. Chase Rynd, director of the Frist Center for the Arts, is scheduled to introduce Horowitz

Horowitz