Sydney Philosothon 2024

The Sydney Philosothon celebrates the virtues of critical, creative, collaborative and caring inquiry through a series of opportunities for students to engage in inter-school discussions known as Communities of Inquiry (COIs).  The development of these skills is vital as we need both our reason and imagination as we pursue matters of truth and justice and we recognise that rigorous thinking never takes place in true isolation from society. Students who take part in the Philosothon are encouraged to tackle big questions in the spirit of fair-mindedness, respect and community.

This year was the first time that Domremy participated in the Philosothon, entering two teams, each including a student aged 14, 15, 16 and 17 years. Our Year 10 (15 and 16 year old) students had some experience in COIs from their Philosophy classes but our Year 9 and Year 11 students were new to this style of discussion.

The first two inquiries of the evening were based upon provided stimulus and asked Is it ethical to breach someone’s privacy for the sake of safety and security? and Do you have a right to believe whatever you want? The third inquiry was based upon a presentation about knowledge, after which each group worked collaboratively to consider and discuss a question arising from the presented material.

Our students felt a little nervous participating in this challenging event for the very first time, within an impressive field of students mostly from independent and selective schools across Sydney. However, they soon found their feet and each of them made thoughtful and valuable contributions to the inquiries in a highly respectful, open-minded manner.

We congratulate the eight students involved for taking an academic risk, pushing themselves out of their comfort zone and representing our College with pride. 

Student reflections

• The Philosothon was, at first, a very nerve racking experience, but as soon as I got used to the people and the questions there it was easy to settle into the inquiries. I definitely have a more open mind coming out of this experience, since I’ve learned just from listening to other students’ opinions and perspectives. It was a great opportunity to connect with those who all enjoy philosophy, and I’m glad I was able to be a part of the 2024 Philosothon.
• The Sydney Philosothon was an incredible experience where we had the opportunity to meet new people and take part in interesting discussions regarding philosophy and ethics. The evening consisted of 3 COI’s where we participated in conversations surrounding the morality of breaching privacy and whether we have the right to believe what we want. In between these discussions, we were given the chance to meet and socialise with new people. By sharing our thoughts and ideas with our peers and hearing from various perspectives we were able to broaden our minds by listening to learn. The Philosothon overall was an extremely worthwhile experience as we were able to develop our communication and thinking skills in a new environment.
• The 2024 Philosothon was certainly a step outside of my comfort zone! However, this step allowed me to not only expand my knowledge, but also allowed me to gain confidence in my ability to share ideas regarding various ethical dilemmas, as well as connect with others through a shared passion in philosophy.

Sarah Thompson, Leader of Innovative and Global Connections