Philosophy Speaker Series

Every year, Laurier’s Department of Philosophy hosts a speaker series that explores different questions, theories and topics. Each session is hosted by a Laurier faculty member or guest speaker. All sessions are open to the public. Students, staff and community members are all welcome. 

Time: 3:30 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Location: DAWB 2-101

2018/19 SPEAKER SERIES

November 16, 2018 - Chris Wass (PhD Candidate, University of Waterloo)

"Adam Smith and the Problem of Justice"

Abstract:

This paper questions why there is currently such widespread agreement that the Adam Smith problem has been resolved and whether or not this consensus is justified. It begins with a brief look at the relevant sections of Smith two major works before turning to the German originators of Das Problem. It then looks at the most influential rebuttals to the German criticisms and how those rebuttals got passed down into accepted canon, particularly in the New Glasgow edition of The Theory of Moral Sentiments. Having explored where the prevailing opinion on Das Problem came from the paper concludes by considering the possibility that it might be premature to consider Das Problem resolved and that there are important contemporary questions that it could shed light on.

  

Upcoming Speakers

• Jan. 18, 2019: Rebekah Johnston (Wilfrid Laurier University)
• Feb. 15, 2019: Phil Bériault  (PhD candidate, University of Waterloo)
• March 22, 2019: Maya Goldenberg (University of Guelph)