You are invited to Join PC philosophy professors and fellow students for an evening of good food, music, and lively discussion patterned on Plato’s Symposium, the famous dinner party where Socrates and his friends gave speeches in praise of love (eros). This is designed to be a FUN event, with a academic philosophy built in!
When: Tuesday, December 1, 2026 | 5:30–8:00 pm
Where: The Fiondella Great Room, Ruane Center for the Humanities
HOW IT WORKS
Just as in Plato’s Symposium, we’ll go around the table and each student will share a short speech. A discussion will follow, guided by your table’s “Socrates” (one of your favorite PC professors).
Think of your speech as a chance to share what the topic means to you and why it matters. Feel free to draw on authors or thinkers who have inspired you, but the heart of it should be your own reflection.
KEY DATES
• By Monday, November 16: RSVP using the form below and list your top two topic choices.
• After the RSVP deadline: Dr. Carlson will let you know which topic to prepare.
• By noon on Monday, November 30: Email your 5-minute speech to Dr. Licia Carlson (Chair) at acarlso1@providence.edu.
• Tuesday, December 1, 5:30–8:00 pm: The Symposium!
TOPICS
• Love
• Peace
• Art
• Music
• Free Will
• Technology
• The Divine
• Friendship
• Truth
• Other: have an idea of your own? We encourage you to propose it! There’s a spot on the RSVP form to do that.
RSVP HERE: Plato’s Symposium: An Evening of Dinner & Dialogue – RSVP – Fill out form
(or scan the QR code on the attached flyer)
