To further broaden and enhance participants’ knowledge in the field of philosophy, the 46th PHAVISMINDA International Conference continued its second day on September 28, 2024, at Eastern Visayas State University Ormoc Campus (EVSU-OC).
The 2nd day began with a warm welcome and a recap from the first day. Short after, the first plenary session was delivered by Dr. Ma. Liza Ruth A. Ocampo, who discussed “Aquinas on Love of Friendship, Lex Naturalis, and the Sapience of Virtues.” In her presentation, she emphasized the connection between virtue and moral wisdom in Aquinas’ teachings, offering insights into the application of these values in modern ethical dilemmas.
The program then transitioned into the second round of breakout sessions, in which participants are divided into 6 venues to attend the topic of their interest. Each room was moderated by a distinguished speaker with diverse topics revolving around philosophical, ethical, and socio-political explorations of power, knowledge, technology, and law. The sessions offer participants the opportunity to explore these complex topics in depth, highlighting the intersection of philosophy with contemporary societal challenges.
In the afternoon, participants heard another engaging plenary lecture from Dr. Michael Anthony C. Vasco, who presented “Confrontations between Knowledge and Power: Michel Foucault on the Ethics and Politics of Truth.” His presentation delved into Foucault’s critical views of power structures and how truth is shaped and manipulated within them, challenging conventional ideas about authority and ethics.
The third breakout sessions followed, having topics primarily focused around philosophical reflections on contemporary issues, particularly in relation to technology, ethics, society, and culture. Key themes include the impact of AI and social media on identity and subjectification, Foucault’s influence on modern thought, ethics of self-care, critiques of socio-political realities, and explorations in religious and theological studies. These discussions aim to bridge philosophical theory with current societal challenges, examining how individuals navigate complex realities in the digital age and beyond.
Following was the online plenary lecture by Dr. Gyula Klima from Fordham University, USA, who spoke on “Aquinas on Human Intelligence vs. AI.” Dr. Klima highlighted the key distinctions between human intellect and artificial intelligence, emphasizing the irreplaceable nature of human reasoning and creativity.
The second day wrapped up with a vibrant social night, featuring lively performances from students, offering entertainment for the guests, and showcasing the rich talents of EVSUnistas.
: T.M. Ymas
: J.C. Donayre, J.D. Opsimar (Contributor)
