EPSA’s first annual session brought 23 high school students from around the state to the UA Little Rock campus in June 2024 for five days of philosophical fun and community, at no cost to the participants!
This program—the only one of its kind in Arkansas—invited rising 10th through 12th graders who are curious about ethics and philosophy and who like to think deeply about important issues. Our inaugural theme was “Ethics and Technology.” EPSA classes included seminars that addressed philosophical topics and small-group activities focused on real-world ethical cases. Under the guidance of experienced college faculty and high school teachers, students considered a variety of philosophical concepts, encountered diverse points of view, developed skills in argument analysis and construction, and practiced civil discourse and disagreement on the ethical questions technology raises. Students worked with coaches in small teams, and at the end of the week they completed a small-scale Ethics Bowl.
In the evenings, students had time to unwind, watch films, and play games. They left EPSA with a deeper understanding of the topics covered, as well as the tools to start an Ethics Bowl Team or Philosophy Club at their own schools or in their communities.
Students who attended EPSA in 2024 said:
- “I’m now able to make decisions and think with multiple points of view in mind.”
- “I keep seeing things we talked about everywhere. I like how relevant the topic is to our daily lives.”
- “Even when I’m reading news articles, I find myself examining what values come to play in the issues mentioned, and what ethical concerns might be raised for both sides.”
- “I can’t stop thinking about how before I limited ‘technology’ to just electronics, but the camp really opened my eyes up to what can be considered technology.”
- “I made a lot of new friends! I’m sure we’ll stay in touch.”
Parents said their participating students…
- “really liked getting to know more people, thinking deeply about new ideas, refining thinking skills, and the college experience”
- “enjoyed being around like-minded students and enjoyed being in a cooperative environment”
- “loved the people and talks a lot about the issues that were discussed”
- “love getting to know the faculty members”
- “said it was one of the best camps she’s attended”
Information about the upcoming EPSA session will be available in early 2025.
