What are they about?

Conversations in the Liberal Arts happen Wednesday Afternoons (4:10pm-5:10pm) in Ellis Hall. Informal discussions include a variety of topics such as politics, literature, social issues, scientific questions, as well as religion and philosophy.  

Fall 2024 Schedule

November 20th

Indigenous Perspectivism and Anthropocene Religion, ft. Michael Norton, Professor of Philosophy & Interdisciplinary Studies at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Abstract

Despite what its name might suggest, the "Anthropocene" epoch is a time when humans have been radically decentered in our view of the world around us as we are forced to face one environmental crisis after another. Dr. Michael Norton argues that looming climate catastrophe reveals traditional Western concepts of religion to be untenable and that building a new understanding of religion is a necessary part of facing this catastrophe. In this talk, he will discuss how Eduardo Viveiros de Castro's account of Indigenous American ontology can inform an ecological approach to religion. 

November 13th

What Can A.I. Do? ft. Jamie Dow, Hendrix Professor of Philosophy and Steel Center Director

Abstract

In conversations about the possibility of artificial intelligence, philosophers tend to ask whether computers and robots possess consciousness, cognition, or intellect. However, such a view of intelligence is grounded in an enlightenment conception of rationality. If we ask What Can A.I. Do? and focus on agency as grounded in the body and bodily movements that are vulnerable, then does this change the questions about the possibility of artificial intelligence. 

November 6th

Imagination as a Political Act: Solarpunk Visions of Hendrix College, ft. Owen Edgington, HDX '25

Abstract

How can imagination serve us as a catalyst for reimagining education and enacting social change? In this discussion, we'll delve into the solarpunk ethos- envisioning regenerative, just futures- and explore its applications for transforming our educational landscape. What would Hendrix look like as a space where learning is student-led, ecologically integrated, and collaborative? How might such a vision challenge traditional hierarchies and foster active engagement with community and environment? Join us as we consider the role of imagination in reshaping our collective educational futures.

Zoom Recording: https://youtu.be/ab_mFdl5EAg

October 30th

Horror as Healing, ft. Dr. Celeste Reeb, Assistant Professor of English & Film Studies

Abstract

If horror is meant to scare us, poke, and prod at our deepest fears, and haunts us well beyond our reading or viewing experience, can it be healing? How can a mode of storytelling built on distress open us up to feelings of belonging, empowerment, and validation. In this talk, Dr. Celeste Reeb discusses the important role horror plays in personal and community spaces. Horror as an affective genre makes it possible to confront the messiness of the human condition and process intense emotions. 

Zoom Recording: https://youtu.be/Y9prD74iuRM

October 23rd

The Sodality of Harmless Drudges: A Throwback Style Discussion, ft. Steel Center Ambassadors

Abstract

In the early days of the Steel Center, faculty and students would gather in the Raney Building common area each Friday afternoon. They would open the dictionary, choose a random word, and have meaningful conversations based on their random choice. They deemed these discussion hours, "The Sodality of Harmless Drudges". Over the years, this informal gathering transitioned into what is now our weekly Wednesday Afternoon Discussions, with carefully chosen topics and a slightly more formal approach. Steel Center discussions have been taking place on Hendrix campus for more than forty years. Join us Wednesday for a throwback discussion hour led by Steel Center Ambassadors to revisit our roots and come together for a retro discussion format that promises to be a little quirky and a lot of fun. 

Zoom Recording: https://youtu.be/pBfiZcdyh9Q

October 9th

African Cultural Products and the Manifestation of Power, ft. David Kamanga (HDX '27), Steel Center Ambassador

Abstract

This discussion is a reflection of British colonialism's impact on how African Cultural Products represented and expressed power and other abstract concepts through culturally significant visual mediums. 

Zoom Recording: https://youtu.be/eQNg1hkqkLA

October 2nd  

Bridges Across Harkrider: How to Disintegrate the Student-Athlete, ft. Dr. Chris Campolo, Professor of Philosophy

Zoom Recording: https://youtu.be/P7g_t8lf1uY

FRIDAY, September 27th

“Matter” Ellis Hall Exhibit Opening and Discussion 

Abstract

Join us for the opening of “Matter,” an art exhibit that explores the concept of material culture in our daily lives. The event will take place Friday, September 27th from 4 to 5 pm. Material culture illustrates the connection between humans and the environment through the objects we find meaningful. Student curator Sydney Austen will lead a discussion of the works and introduce participants. This event is open to the Hendrix community and the public. Families welcome! For more information, click here.

Zoom Recording: https://youtu.be/TtsRszo-NRs 

September 18th

Bridges Across Harkrider: What is the problem of the athlete-non-athlete divide at Hendrix?

Abstract

Join a student-driven, informal, open discussion. 

Zoom Recording: https://youtu.be/TtsRszo-NRs

September 11th

Bridges Across Harkrider: How Microeconomics Can Be Observed in the Professional Sports Labor Market ft. Dr. William Haden Chomphosy, Hendrix Associate Professor of Economics & Business

Abstract

This talk establishes theoretical market principles associating worker productivity and worker compensation. Using this theoretical foundation, we will discuss how the real-world labor market in professional sports can both validate and contradict those theoretical arguments.

Zoom Recording: https://youtu.be/n8yMq2WeOOQ 

September 4th

Building Team Hendrix ft. Dr. Deb Skok, Hendrix Professor of US History

Abstract

In this discussion, Dr. Skok will introduce the "Bridges Across Harkrider" series, provide brief historical context for understanding the evolution of modern sports, and lead an audience-centered discussion and brainstorming session at Ellis Hall for how we can enhance social interaction between the East and West sides of Hendrix Campus.  

Zoom Recording: https://youtu.be/eNyENhPFkOI