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Sanford and Wilmington Christian Engage in Philosophical Discussion
Over the years, Upper School students have periodically had the opportunity to take an elective in philosophy, most recently taught by Science Instructor Heather Foucault-Camm. This year, under the initiative of Lucas Sun '23, a Philosophy Club was formed. In early March, the students and Foucault-Camm hosted and participated in a discussion of topical national and international issues and enduring philosophical questions with students from neighboring Wilmington Christian School.
All Upper School students who are not in the club were offered the opportunity to participate in this inaugural conversation by completing a reflection piece on the value of having conversations with people of different viewpoints. In all, eight students from Wilmington Christian and their headmaster and teacher, Roger Erdvig, traveled to Sanford to have a lunch discussion with six Sanford Upper School students and Foucault-Camm.
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"This idea was generated by Roger (Erdvig)," shared Foucault-Camm, "but he and I both agree on the importance of having our students prepared to live in a pluralistic society. They need a well-informed perspective on the issues that they face. Additionally, it is always a good idea to practice the art of civil discourse."
After "breaking bread" together over a pizza lunch, the students gathered around a Harkness table in an Upper School classroom. The large, oval table provided a setting of equal seating for all, the ability to make eye contact when speaking, and enabled ease of discussion. Students and their teachers from the two schools were shuffled, seated next to someone new, and partnered for an ice-breaker activity. After a brief conversation, each student introduced their neighbor, helping to elevate the comfort level of the participants.
This bridge-building between the schools allowed the students to discuss a range of topics from freedom of speech to civil liberties to the philosophical meaning of "right" and "wrong." While the two educators had agreed upon the topics and the format of the 90-minute meeting, they were pleased to observe the students carrying the discussion completely on their own.
In thinking about the success of the day, Lucas reflected: "This was our new club’s first big event, and it was great! Everyone had the chance to put forth their ideas, and no one was focused on trying to change the opinions of others. Instead, we respectfully listened, and then we asked questions because we were curious and really wanted more information so we could understand those opinions. We believe discrimination happens because people set a high standard that they think elevates them above those with whom they disagree. We are trying to create a safe place with everyone being able to express their opinions equally."
Foucault-Camm elaborated: "What we saw were people of varying, and at times strong, opinions and perspectives actually come together to respectfully share their ideas and respectfully listen to the opinions of others. I was left with such a wonderful feeling of hope for the future. In a few years, these young people will be our future leaders, and I am optimistic in expecting them to continue to embrace this type of open discussion."
Both Lucas and Foucault-Camm, as well as Erdvig, expressed a desire to have another of these joint discussion groups. They are hopeful that it will be possible this school year but recognize that scheduling might require it to wait until early in the fall.
After "breaking bread" together over a pizza lunch, the students gathered around a Harkness table in an Upper School classroom. The large, oval table provided a setting of equal seating for all, the ability to make eye contact when speaking, and enabled ease of discussion. Students and their teachers from the two schools were shuffled, seated next to someone new, and partnered for an ice-breaker activity. After a brief conversation, each student introduced their neighbor, helping to elevate the comfort level of the participants.
This bridge-building between the schools allowed the students to discuss a range of topics from freedom of speech to civil liberties to the philosophical meaning of "right" and "wrong." While the two educators had agreed upon the topics and the format of the 90-minute meeting, they were pleased to observe the students carrying the discussion completely on their own.
In thinking about the success of the day, Lucas reflected: "This was our new club’s first big event, and it was great! Everyone had the chance to put forth their ideas, and no one was focused on trying to change the opinions of others. Instead, we respectfully listened, and then we asked questions because we were curious and really wanted more information so we could understand those opinions. We believe discrimination happens because people set a high standard that they think elevates them above those with whom they disagree. We are trying to create a safe place with everyone being able to express their opinions equally."
Foucault-Camm elaborated: "What we saw were people of varying, and at times strong, opinions and perspectives actually come together to respectfully share their ideas and respectfully listen to the opinions of others. I was left with such a wonderful feeling of hope for the future. In a few years, these young people will be our future leaders, and I am optimistic in expecting them to continue to embrace this type of open discussion."
Both Lucas and Foucault-Camm, as well as Erdvig, expressed a desire to have another of these joint discussion groups. They are hopeful that it will be possible this school year but recognize that scheduling might require it to wait until early in the fall.
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