Author: Huenemann

See the TLS review of philosopher Roger Scruton’s new book, Understanding Music. An excerpt:

Just as facial expressions do not communicate something that can be understood so much as enjoin us to imagine what it feels like when we ourselves make such an expression, so too, according to Scruton, does some elemental aspect of musical experience enjoin us to engage our imagining in similar fashion. In this way, and because the experience of music is not, at least not typically, heard as a single expression, the imagination is forced to grapple with the musical shapes and forms as they unfold over time, following its movement as it echoes in, or is anticipated by, the movements of our body and rational imagination.

It was a big night last night. First, Aaron Orlovitz Johnson gave a splendid presentation of living with absurdity in a godless universe, deftly fielding objections from a packed house. It was most impressive. The talk was videoed, and I am guessing it will be available on the SHAFT website sometime soon.

Then there was the first ever Philosophy Club concert, which was a performance of songs by David Bazan about living between faith and doubt. The musicians (Andrew Royer, Cody Howell, and Dillon Cooper) performed with excellence, to a very receptive audience.

I have to say, I’m really impressed by these events. It’s made me think that perhaps the best thing I could do to encourage good philosophical dialogue on campus is to make some venues available — and then get out of the way!

Over in “announcements,” on the right.

Huh?

Young philosophers Andrew Royer and Cody Howell will be performing some songs by David Bazan next Wednesday, December 2nd, in Main 115 at 7 pm.

Royer writes, “We think this would be interesting because of the changing opinion on faith that is evidenced in his albums.His 1997 debut includes songs that could be sung in a church without much of a stretch. His recently released album is a narrative of his loss of faith. The seven albums in between show a steady change.”

I think this should also be of interest to students in Religious Studies. All are welcome! Rock on!