Political Philosophy Salon
Through the study of early modern political philosophy students explore the question, What makes social order possible? They undertake a close reading of primary source texts and contemporary supplemental material in order to draw connections between universal-claims and present day concerns. To make abstract concepts more concrete, students participate in role-playing, creative writing, and simulations. In the 2009 version of this project, students collaborated with the art teacher Jeff Robin to make “philosopher shrines” - groups of objects representing fundamental concepts of each of the philosophers studied. The project culminates in Salon Night, an interactive exhibition of learning that involves costumes, food, skits, and philosophical conversation. Students lead small group seminars and invited parents to participate.
It is the spirit of social gatherings that develops a thinking head and pushes one’s vision as far as it can go.
- Jean-Jacques Rousseau
- Jean-Jacques Rousseau
2009 Exhibition
2009 Exhibition - Philosopher Shrines
2009 Exhibition - Shrine Objects
2008 Exhibition
2007 Exhibition