An intriguing debate will unfold at the College of Arts & Sciences as five professors engage in a thought-provoking discussion about which academic discipline should endure in the event of a global catastrophe. Sponsored by Logos, the undergraduate philosophy journal and club, this annual event is set to take place at 5 p.m. on November 6 in Room G01 of Uris Hall.
The theme for this year’s Apocalypse Debate presents a dire hypothetical scenario: a near-extinction level event that reduces Earth’s population by 99.9%. In this grim context, all knowledge accumulated over the past 10,000 years would vanish. Fortunately, a group of forward-thinking individuals has devised an “apocalypse-proof” box, capable of preserving the knowledge of only one subject. The central question posed to the professors is which discipline should be prioritized for this preservation.
Each professor will advocate for their respective fields, presenting compelling arguments to defend their choices. The stakes are high, as the outcome could impact how future generations understand and interact with knowledge in a drastically changed world.
The debate promises not only to highlight the significance of various academic disciplines but also to provoke a deeper conversation about the role of education and knowledge in times of crisis. Attendees can expect a lively exchange of ideas, as participants explore the implications of their selections and the broader relevance of their fields.
This annual event has become a hallmark of intellectual engagement at the university, inviting students and faculty alike to reflect on the importance of their studies. As the date approaches, anticipation builds around which discipline will ultimately be deemed essential for survival in this hypothetical apocalypse.
The public is encouraged to attend this unique debate and consider the pressing question: in the face of potential oblivion, what knowledge is truly worth saving?
