Renewing Enclaves for Philosophy as a Way of Life Today by Eli Kramer (University of Wrocław)

Eli Kramer (University of Wroclaw)

I argue that global traditions of philosophy as a way of life (PWL) have historically contested the perennial institutionalized atrophy of the humane vocation of higher learning into dogmatic and self-serving knowledge projects, rote education, and superficial models of engagement with broader society. In response, PWLers both within, and beyond the academy, have sought to renew programs, communities, and institutions, that serve this deeper vocational commitment for their times: to provide integrative learning, character and community formation, and service to society. A recent diffuse movement within global PWL is considering how to foster such places today, but well recognize the need to address the modern crisis of meaning in an inherently intercultural context. I conclude by surveying some of the exemplary current models and experiments.

3:30-5PM PST