USU Partners With Logan Library to Celebrate Philosophy Day

LOGAN — Faculty from the USU Department of Communication Studies and Philosophy and the Logan Library will celebrate World Philosophy Day on Nov. 21. In the spirit of philosophers everywhere, they invite the public to “Ask Us Anything.”

Panelists include philosophy faculty Brittany Gentry, Charlie Huenemann, Harrison Kleiner, Michael Otteson and Rachel Robison Greene, alongside Postdoctoral Teaching Fellow Alex Barrientos. World Philosophy Day was proclaimed an international day by UNESCO and has been celebrated on the third Thursday of every November since 2002.“By celebrating World Philosophy Day, UNESCO aims to highlight the enduring value of philosophy for the development of human thought, and the theme for 2024 is ‘Bridging Social Gaps,’ which highlights philosophy's vital role in mending the social fabric and fostering a more cohesive society,” moderator and co-organizer Mike Ashfield said. “As we reflected on these ideals, my colleagues and I could think of no better way to honor them than by reaching out to the community through the Logan Library.”

Those who have never heard of World Philosophy Day might understand why Ashfield, an assistant professor of philosophy, initially approached Logan Library Interim Director & Librarian Joseph N. Anderson with the idea of co-hosting an event to raise awareness for his discipline. He and his colleagues also wanted to support opportunities for learning and dialogue in a community setting and found a partner in the local library.

“I was immediately interested because our mission is to spark creation, exploration and collaboration in our community,” Anderson said. “I'm happy that this program has come together and hope everyone will take advantage of the opportunity. How often do we get to ask professional philosophers any questions on our minds?”

The ”Ask Us Anything” event will be at 5 p.m. Nov. 21 in the Logan Library’s main floor Community Room B at 285 N. Main Street. Following a short introduction, the philosophers will take questions from the audience. All are welcome to attend, and free coffee and refreshments will be provided.

For additional information, please visit https://chass.usu.edu/philosophy/ or contact Mike Ashfield (mike.ashfield@usu.edu).