Discover Global and Comparative Philosophy at Thinking Planet
Ever since the foundation of Leiden University in 1575, philosophy in Leiden has been committed to open-mindedness, dialogue, and comparative perspectives. In line with this tradition it makes perfect sense to question the widespread self-image of philosophy as well. Is philosophy the exclusive privilege and product of a Western tradition of thought? This seems hard to maintain in the globalizing world of the 21st century. It is time for a change!
New BA programme in Philosophy
Responding to the need for inclusiveness in philosophy, Leiden University is launching a new bachelor’s programme, Philosophy: Global and Comparative Perspectives, starting in September 2017. It is unique in the Netherlands, and one of the few worldwide, in offering philosophical perspectives from around the globe. Most programmes limit themselves to Western philosophy as rooted in Greek antiquity. The Leiden approach is different in featuring philosophies from India, East Asia, and the Arab world as well. No better place to do so than the Leiden Faculty of Humanities, renowned for its expertise in languages, cultures, arts and societies from all over the world!
Need for inclusiveness
The popular Dutch Filosofie Magazine also decided that the time has come to start building bridges between philosophical traditions, and to reach beyond disciplinary boundaries. Taking a global perspective enriches debates framed in the language of Western philosophy and enhances cultural understanding.
Thinking Planet event
In April 2017 Filosofie Magazine will be hosting a Global Philosophy event: Thinking Planet. The Leiden Institute for Philosophy is proud to be partner in this festival, which brings ideas from all over the world to The Netherlands, with inspiring talks and a wide array of perspectives on global issues. The line-up for the festival has more than 40 top-notch speakers, artists and musicians, including Gayatri Spivak, Michael Puett and Marli Huijer, as well as our Leiden colleagues Ahab Bdaiwi, Stephen Harris, Arthur Schipper and Adriana Churampi Ramirez. The programme also features a debating contest for secondary school pupils on the topic of Diversity. A team from Leiden’s Pre-University College will participate.
Please note that Leiden University staff and alumni get a discount on their ticket (select ‘Abonnee’ box below ‘Direct bestellen’ on the Dutch website ) and that there is a special student rate!
And read the interview with Leiden Philosophers in ‘Filosofie Magazine’!
| What | Thinking Planet - a night of philosophy from all over the world |
| When | Saturday 15 April 2017 |
| Where | TivoliVredenburg Utrecht (right next to the central station!) |
| Extra | Special rate for students and high school pupils / Discount for Leiden staff and alumni |
