FAPSA Australasian Philosothon

A Philosothon is concerned with big questions, questions at the edge of science and reason.

Each school selects between 5-8 students to represent the school and together they explore philosophical and ethical issues orally. During the event they discuss four issues and the aim is to collectively come to a conclusion about the issue.

The event differs from debating in that students are scored highly if they build on each others arguments. Students can also change their mind during the course of the discussion.

University based lecturers in Philosophy award points on the basis of students critical thinking, collaboration and creativity. At the end of the evening medallions and trophies are awarded to individual students and schools.

Since 2011 the top three schools from each Australian state, New Zealand and Singapore have been invited each year to participate in the Australasian Philosothon. In order to be eligible schools must first compete in their state competetition.

For more information visit the official website here.

3/5

8 students selected from each participating school

5/5

Extensive knowledge of philosophical topics required to be selected and perform well

3/5

Requires training and study of philosophical topics