Veritas - Spring/Summer 2002 Newsletter - Volume1, Number 2

Undergraduate Student News

Student Philosophy, Theology Associations Collaborate

The thriving Student Philosophy Association has collaborated with the newly-formed Student Theology Association on special events this Spring, with plans for expansion in the coming academic year.

The Student Colloquium Series features a paper presented by a student, with a panel of commentators. Questions and answers are encouraged after the presentation. Topics for the Colloquia have included "Sacred? Sanctity of Life and Medical Experimentation of Animals"; "Killing the Truth"; "The Meaning of Hope"; "Confronting Terrorism as a Valid and Highly Effective Form of Warfare"; "The Problem of Evil and the Existence of God"; and "Wittgenstein's Private Language Argument: Can an Individual Have her Own Language?"

In addition to the Colloquium Series, there are informal luncheon talks scheduled every month. These discussions have taken up the following subjects: "Should Gays Be Allowed to Adopt?"; "A Psychological and Pastoral Response to Terrorism"; "Moral Questions Concerning Stem Cell Research"; "The Problem of Religious Diversity and Salvation"; and "Is There a Hell? Is There a Possibility that You Might Go There?"

"Our topics are suggested by students, and show what the students' concerns are. For example, topics on the problem of evil, terrorism, and salvation seem particularly relevant to students after September 11," said Dr. Cantens.

Students who participate in the Colloquium Series and the Informal Luncheons say these events provide a sense of fun and serious intellectual reflection in a community of students with similar interests. "All interested students are encouraged to become members - it is not necessary to be a Philosophy or Theology major or minor", said Sr. Sara Fairbanks, OP, faculty sponsor for the Theology Association.

This year's officers for the Student Philosophy Association were: Elizabeth Suergui, President; Empress Hughs, Vice-President/President-Elect; Gina Wouters, Secretary; and Petro Terenta, Treasurer.

Fund-raising and social events are on the agenda for next year in addition to a full slate of new and thought-provoking discussion topics.

Dr. Cantens suggested that some of the papers presented at the colloquia, and the proceedings of some meetings, be published by the Associations in a newsletter format.

For more information on the Student Philosophy Association, contact bcantens@mail.barry.edu; for more information on the Student Theology Association contact: sfairbanks@mail.barry.edu