Why study Philosophy: Narratives from Class and Experience

Under the able guidance of the College Principal, Prof. (Dr.) Anita Kaushal the Department of Philosophy, PGGCG-11, Chandigarh in association with Nostalgia: Alumni Association of PGGCG-11, organized the Fifth Lecture of the Seminar Series “Dialogue” on 'Why study Philosophy: Narratives from Class and Experience” on April 10, 2023. Dr. Shivani Sharma, Associate Professor, Department of Philosophy, Panjab University, Chandigarh, who is also an alumna of PGGCG-11, delivered the lecture which was attended by around 50 students. The lecture encouraged them to self- reflect on their actions and beliefs. Dr. Shivani Sharma very briefly yet deeply explained the difference between philosophical and non-philosophical questions. She also touched upon the relevance of philosophy in other disciplines. She equated the significance of Philosophy to that of our grandparents. Just like we need our grandparents, to learn something from the wisdom they have earned from their experiences, similarly we need Philosophy and its various theories to inculcate wisdom in us. She urged the students present there, to be a window, rather than a mirror. For she believed, one must doubt, every information given to them instead of just absorbing it without pondering upon it. The very essence of a good philosopher according to her, was the ability to entertain a thought without accepting it. She said how educating the mind without educating the heart, is no education at all. There was a deep, thoughtful silence throughout her lecture for she truly provoked the students to self- reflect. She also challenged an individual’s belief that whatever surrounds an individual is not reality. And stated, very convincingly that reality is rather what remains unaffected by the space and time. It was a truly, informative seminar. Several, questions were asked by the students as well. The Session was Chaired by Ms Bhumika Thapa of BA First Year and vote of thanks was extended by Dr. Sadhna Verma, Dean, Alumna Association and Head, Department of Chemistry and Dr. Ambuj Sharma from Department of Philosophy. More than fifty students participated in the dialogue Courtesy: Bharati Rao BA III and Tanu Sharma BA I