Evolutionary Theory: Is this all there is? A Humanist Philosophers day conference
| Venue | Conway Hall, Red Lion Square, London WC1R 4RL | Starting at / on | 31st October 2009 |
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| Start time | 10:00 to 16:00 |
A day conference by the Humanist Philosophers, supported by the British Humanist Association and South Place Ethical Society. www.humanism.org.uk/shop/tickets
Download the full poster (PDF)
Evolutionary Theory has a lot going for it, but how far does it go? Can it provide adequate explanations of human psychology - emotions, imagination - of our moral sense and aesthetic appreciation? Does Evolutionary Theory have anything valuable to say about our free choices and the meaning of life?
These questions will be explored in three discussions, chaired by Peter Cave (chair of Humanist Philosophers and author of 'Humanism: a beginner's guide'), with opportunities for questions and contributions from the floor.
Human psychology: 'Are human minds made by memes?' with Susan Blackmore, Visiting Professor of Psychology at the University of Plymouth and Simon Blackburn, Professor of Philosophy, University of Cambridge
Ethics: 'Can there be genuine value and virtue in a godless universe?' with Emeritus Professor John Cottingham, University of Reading; Professor David Papineau, King's College, London; Professor Janet Radcliffe Richards, Director of the Centre for Bioethics and Philosophy of Medicine at University College London.
Meaning and purposes of life: 'What does evolutionary biology have to say about the meaning of life?' by Michael Reiss, Professor of Science Education and Assistant Director of the Institute of Education and Emeritus Professor Richard Norman, University of Kent.
30 October, 16:15 - We are no longer selling or despatching tickets for this event, however you will be able to buy tickets on the door tomorrow. Most existing ticket purchasers should have a physical ticket but those from recent weeks will be on a guest list at the door.
