The 2021 Roger Scruton Philosophy Symposium

The Ian Ramsey Centre (IRC) for Science and Religion, University of Oxford, in collaboration with the Faculty of Philosophy, University of Warsaw, the Faculty of Philosophy, University of Zagreb and the Humane Philosophy Project, held a symposium in the UK in August 2021. This symposium offered a ten-day immersion experience in the philosophy and outlook of Sir Roger Scruton, the British writer and philosopher, as part of an IRC project in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), supported by the John Templeton Foundation. Sir Roger was deeply involved in underground education in CEE behind the iron curtain, and his works continue to be an important voice in the discussions concerning many of the key issues the region faces in the post-communist era. Attendees included four Fellows, whose costs were supported by the New Generations Research Exchange, and who provided the following feedback:

Valentino Findrik (Croatia): The 2021 Roger Scruton Philosophy Symposium was a truly wholesome experience in the sense that it brought to life the ancient Greek ideal of skhole, or leisure, as a dynamic coming together of knowledge, conversation, and free time, as well as a proper place for these to take form. The fact that this happened in an event inspired by the life work of Sir Roger Scruton made the experience all the more profound and stimulating, as he himself tirelessly sought to embody the same ideal in all his work. The richness of philosophy done and lived the Scrutonian way is something that is greatly missed in today's academia, as well as our societies at large, making events like this a great necessity and an exemplar to follow

Nino Gabelashvili (Georgia): I can say without exaggeration that the Symposium exceeded my expectations, which were very high anyway. The lectures and discussions, but also the short trips were so inspiring. The very environment and place were perfect fit for this event. The intellectual stimulus to look further into Sir Roger's ideas which is born through conversation is unique and for me it is something that can not be achieved without events like this one, which create an amazing network of people.

Maria Kądzielska (Poland): The Roger Scruton Philosophy symposium was absolutely fantastic! I had a great time and enjoyed the very thought provoking conversations. Not to mention the wine, and food, and local trips which allowed me to experience Roger Scruton's Wiltshire. It has even inspired me to came up with an idea for my habilitation.

Bartosz Wesół (Poland): What was particularly valuable for me about this event was its multi-level character. During these 10 days I had a chance to: listen to fascinating lectures on various different topics; get to know Sir Scruton’s legacy better; visit important historical places; participate in thought-provoking discussions; and most importantly, make friends with many great people. The event broadened my horizons, opened new possibilities and will serve as an inspiration in the future (not only in my academic career).