Dr. Christopher diCarlo, a philosopher of science and ethics, will speak at Gustavus Adolphus College’s annual Our Story Conference on Saturday, Oct. 29.
To address the conference’s theme “What is African?” diCarlo will speak about the possible beginnings of human species on the continent of Africa and the social implications of this origin in our present life. The conference will take place from 1-3 p.m. in Alumni Hall, located on the upper level of the O.J. Johnson Student Union. The conference will also include a performance by the College’s social justice theatre group, I Am We Are.
“I hope that everyone who is even slightly interested in the Our Story Conference attends, because whether we individually believe in the theory of evolution or the origins of humankind beginning in Africa, acknowledging other people’s beliefs is the only way we can attempt to unify as a race – the human race,” Gustavus sophomore and Co-President of the Pan-Afrikan Student Organization Valentina Muraleedharan said.
Dr. diCarlo’s personal research focuses on how and why humans reason, think, and act the way they do. He is interested in how and why the human brain has evolved to its current state and what cross-cultural and cross-species behavior can provide insight into universally common modes of reasoning. He is an outspoken activist for free thought, humanism, and secularism. He is a fellow, advisor, and board member of Center for Inquiry Canada, a fellow of the Society of Ontario Freethinkers, and board advisor to Freethought TV.
This student-led conference, sponsored by the Gustavus Pan Afrikan Student Organization (PASO), celebrates the rich heritage of the African Diaspora by increasing awareness of the struggles and triumphs of its people. The term, “Our Story” is used as an aid to recognize that documented history has not always been accurate and truthful about the African descendant’s experience in the world.
The Our Story Conference is free and open to the public. For questions or more information, contact the Gustavus Diversity Center at 507-933-7449.
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