Spotlight on Philosophy Colloquium
Parens lectures on the disadvantages of natural law theory
Zita Fletcher
Issue date: 2/9/10 Section: News
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In the tradition of an ancient Greek symposium, the group of more than 40 people attended the colloquium not only to hear a philosophical discourse, but also to contribute to it with their own questions, comments or observations. "I like the discussion that it sparks with students after the colloquium," said University of Dallas freshman Jessica Deal. She went on to explain that she liked being able to carry on the dialogue with her fellow students outside.
Parens' presentation challenged the traditional UD perspective that man is subject to an inherent natural law. Favoring the advantages of the natural right theory, adopted by notable figures such as Aristotle and John Locke, Parens reminded those present that he was not undermining the natural law theory but was merely suggesting disadvantages to it. "In claiming that laws are natural, one seems to insinuate that they're innate," said Parens. He added that by claiming the existence of a natural law, one is also insinuating the existence of a natural punishment.
The presentation, which referenced Muslim, Jewish and Christian medieval scholars, including Averroes and St. Thomas Aquinas, also defined the theory of conventionalism. "The basic contrast that I'd like to draw is that conventionalism boils down to the rule of the strong," explained Dr. Parens. He reminded the audience of the Thrasymachus' conventionalist argument in Book I of Plato's "Republic."
After the presentation had drawn to a close, the room opened up for questions or comments, of which there were many. The observations of the students and faculty members created an environment conducive to intellectual dialogue and the exchange of ideas. Terrill Legueri, a Braniff graduate student new to colloquium, found it a rewarding experience. "I liked it," she said. "I thought it was a good introduction to the major themes of the problem of justice."
There are 10 remaining installments in the Philosophy Colloquium series, which takes place on Fridays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in Braniff 201. It offers students the distinct UD experience of engaging in a philosophic discussion with one's fellows as well as with great thinkers across the centuries.
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