Philosophy Day to Explore Philosophy and the Law

St. John Fisher University will celebrate Philosophy Day with the theme, “Philosophy and the Law,” from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 21, in the Golisano Gateway Midlevel.

Philosophy Day, sponsored by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Culture Organization (UNESCO), is observed throughout the world as an occasion for people to reflect upon the importance of critical thinking, world peace, international cooperation, and the love of wisdom. It is also held on the purported birthday of Socrates. Fisher is the only institution in the United States to continuously participate in Philosophy Day since UNESCO first inaugurated it in 2003.

The day’s agenda focuses on the intersection of law, philosophy, and justice through various presentations, panels, and discussions. The morning begins with a welcome from Dean Ann Marie Fallon, followed by presentations from students in the Issues in Law and Politics class. The second session of the morning will focus on restorative justice and will be led by Debra Martin, a New York State Court of Claims Judge, highlighting the potential for repairing harm within the legal system.

In the afternoon, philosophy and law intertwine, starting with an informal discussion led by professors Dr. Tim Madigan and Dr. Jane Snyder on the philosophy of jurisprudence. A panel with current and former legal studies and philosophy dual majors explores the mutual influences of law and philosophy. Later, the topic focus will shift to the relationship between law, environmental policy, and economic development, featuring speakers Kevin Ryan from the Monroe County Bar Association and Vincent Esposito, a New York State economic development executive.

The day will conclude with a session on affirmative action and equal opportunity, addressing pressing diversity issues within the legal field. Kristen Kelly, the director for diversity, equity, and belonging at the University at Buffalo, joins former students to share perspectives on equity and belonging in law.

This full-day event brings together academic perspectives, professional insights, and student voices to explore the role of law in addressing social issues. For questions, contact Dr. Madigan at tmadigan@sjf.edu.

Philosophy Day Schedule

9:30 to 10:50 a.m. - Issues in Law and Politics

11 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. - Restorative Justice: The Power of Repairing Harm

12:30 to 1:30 p.m. - Informal Discussion on the Philosophy of Jurisprudence

1:40 to 3 p.m. - The Role of Philosophy in the Law and the Role of Law in Philosophy

3:10 to 4:30 p.m. - The Law, the Environment, and Economic Development

4:40 to 6 p.m. - Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity, and the Law