SPOTLIGHT: Sure about that?

DSU Philosophy Club wants students to ask questions uninhibited

By Aaron Guillen, Staff Reporter

Is there such thing as free will, or are humans instead subject to a determined destiny? A question like this never finds a conclusive answer, especially when the DSU Philosophy Club is involved. Inspired by free will, or perhaps fate, two students—Milad Doust, current President; and Jerzy Mazurek, member—brought the thought-provoking group back to life this semester.

“The club was originally formed years ago, with different leadership,” Doust explained.

“During the Winter 2016 semester, after the club had been inactive for just under a year, me and Jerzy stepped up to re-start the club. We just wanted to provide the opportunity for […] every person to [have] a chance to get their thoughts out. My aim is to give others a spotlight to feel like their thoughts are being heard and respected.”

Doust promotes the club to be a place where every opinion can be shared freely in a safe environment. He also clarifies what it takes to be involved in a seemingly “deep-thinker” group.

“I like to stress that none of our members are required to have any background or dedication to the subject of philosophy,” he said, “but if you tend to think about things in a deep way, or like hearing others thoughts on [relevant] things, you’re probably a fit for our club.

“The moments that are most valuable to me are [those] when I see someone just release what’s been on their minds—it’s a relief. Questions which the general public may find meaningless or humiliating, [are ones that] the club really respect and take seriously.”

If thought-provoking conversation isn’t enough, the DSU Philosophy Club has another offer to draw students in.

“We help philosophy students with their work,” Doust explained. “I don’t believe there are philosophy tutors in the college—so we’re the next best thing. Lots of our members have taken a wide variety of courses, so if students are ever stuck on essay topics or their arguments, they can get the feedback from us.”

While Doust loves an open discussion, he admitted that some meetings have the potential to turn into debates, which he tries to avoid.

“The idea of a debate can discourage those who are more hesitant and shy to speak,” Doust said.

“[Debates] end up evolving out of control to the point where we haven’t gotten many of the answers we were looking for. In my opinion, everyone has thoughts worth sharing, and many times it’s people who aren’t necessarily into philosophy who give really valuable insights into certain issues.”

Off of a fresh restart, the club hasn’t made any concrete plans for events outside of meetings, yet. Doust suggested that Pub Nights, held in previous years, might see a return should enough interest be shown. In addition, proposed weekly meetings at David Lam have been discussed, but will only take place if demand becomes apparent. Until then, the DSU Philosophy Club meets on Tuesdays from 4:30–6:30 p.m. in the DSU Building (Room 328) at the New Westminster Campus.