Witherspoon’s Summer Seminars are a series of intense courses that examine different areas of human knowledge using the insights of the western intellectual tradition, including the theory of natural law, while welcoming opposing viewpoints and questions in a spirit of friendly collegiality. We are looking not only to guide intellects, but also to help young men and women become responsible, well-ordered, and intellectually courageous.
Applications for our Summer 2023 seminars, outlined below, are now open. If you or someone you know is a high school, college, graduate student or young professional, learn more and apply!
Moral Life and the Classical Tradition (June 11-17) is a seminar for rising high school juniors and seniors, as well as rising college freshmen, who are interested in the ancient philosophical tradition and its influence in the Christian moral life. The seminar is offered concurrently to both young men and young women.
Natural Law and Public Affairs (June 27-July 1) is a seminar for advanced undergraduate and graduate students who are interested in applying natural law theory to a wide range of moral and political issues.
First Principles (July 9-22) is a two-week seminar for advanced undergraduate and graduate students who are interested in examining the purpose of the university and the nature of friendship and marriage. In the first week, the seminar examines traditional texts of metaphysics and epistemology as the backdrop for the university. In the second week, readings in human action and the human good provide a basis to examine friendship, sexuality, and relationship.
The Thomistic Seminar (July 30-August 5) is for graduate students in philosophy and related fields who are interested in exploring this year’s theme of “intellectual creatures,” which will include thinking about the human being alongside angels. This will open philosophical questions about mind and body, knowledge, thought, and will, as well as theological questions about creation and sin.
