This
colloquium will explore the power of alliances between several
traditions of democratic process, including philosophical dialogue,
story circles, theatre exercises, and ritual. Much of the inspiration
for this work comes from successful projects over many years at the
Highlander Folkschool in Tennessee. Through a combination of activities
and reflection, participants will see how such complementary strategies
can give people a real opportunity to re-examine and change their
lives.
Dr.
Peter Shea has led Philosophy for Children discussions since he was
trained in Matthew Lipman’s teaching strategies in the late 70’s. He
produces the weekly philosophy show, "TheBat of Minerva," on Minneapolis
Regional Cable.
In the last seven years he has worked with a
multi-disciplinary University of Minnesota team to develop workshops in
democratic process for undergraduate education and rural community
development, as well as a residential course, "Lives Worth Living."
(See
www.philosophycamp.org for the details of this venture.)
The Philosophy for Children Colloquium Series
includes invited presentations from notable academics on issues related to education, philosophy and
Philosophy for Children. The Series also provides graduate students
and faculty an opportunity to present work-in-progress.
