Spokane Civics Salon

Why People Are Irrational About Politics

Join us for a monthly 'salon' centered around the rights and responsibilities of citizenship in the United States, with special guest, distinguished professor of philosophy, Michael Huemer!

Join Spokane Public Library's Current Affairs Specialist, Shane Gronholz, for a monthly 'salon' centered around discussions on what you believe the rights and responsibilities of citizenship in the United States are.

Spokane Civics Salon will meet from 2:00-3:30 PM on the last Sunday of every month. Each Salon will be focused on a particular "text."

This month's text is one Shane is really excited about: Michael Huemer's essay, "Why People Are Irrational About Politics."Back in his philosophy teaching days, he assigned it at the start of each semester. It is not only a fascinating exploration on why it can be difficult to think clearly about politics, but a great lesson in careful reasoning more generally. 

You are strongly encouraged to read the essay before attending the salon (don't worry - it's very engaging!). However, if you are pressed for time, you can watch a related TedX talk recorded in 2012.

What's more, the author himself, Michael Huemer, will be joining us over Zoom! (Maybe we can get him to talk about why he's an anarcho-capitalist, too).

Who is Michael Huemer?

Michael Huemer, Ph.D., is a distinguished philosopher, author, and professor known for his extensive contributions to contemporary philosophy, particularly in the areas of epistemology, ethics, and political philosophy. With a reputation for thought-provoking arguments and an engaging teaching style, Dr. Huemer has captivated audiences across the world through his various presentations, lectures, and writings.

Dr. Huemer earned his Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from the University of California, Berkeley, and completed his Ph.D. in Philosophy at Rutgers University. He has since established a successful academic career at the University of Colorado, Boulder, where he serves as a full professor.

Dr. Huemer's commitment to intellectual rigor and clarity has earned him numerous awards and accolades, including the inaugural Adam's Prize in Philosophy. His work has not only advanced philosophical discourse but also inspired countless students and fellow academics alike to think more deeply about the nature of reality, morality, and human understanding.

Best of all, he also served on the dissertation committee of your Current Affairs Specialist.

We are honored to have Dr. Michael Huemer joining this month's civics salon!

For more information on Professor Huemer, you can view his extensive CV here.

What is a salon? 
A Salon is a gathering of people guided by a host who come together to exchange ideas and increase their knowledge through meaningful conversation. 

Shane holds a Ph.D. in philosophy from the University of Colorado Boulder. He has taught courses in logic, ethics, social and political philosophy, and the philosophy of law. He has been published in the areas of the nature of rationality, human well-being, and the ethics of personal relationships.

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We strive to make events welcoming for people of all abilities. To request accommodations, call the library at 509-444-5308.

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