Visitor Voices: Conflict and Humanity 1

Conflict and Humanity 1: Is conflict a natural state for humans?

Despite humanity's efforts to prevent or minimise conflict, it has never successfully been brought to a close. From Athens breaking the 30-year peace during the Peloponnesian War, to the failure of the League of Nations to prevent World War II, our impatience for conflict has made itself manifest. Humanity has also shown great inventiveness in finding causes for war – from religion and economic power, to ideology, and the kidnapping of Helen to name but a few. This is just one way to approach the question that will be at the core of this symposium, where we will draw on the knowledge of the ancients as well as our own perspectives to ask, is conflict a natural state for humans?

Special Feature:

This symposium discussion will be conducted by employing the use of inner and outer Socratic circles, a common and insightful technique used in modern Socratic discussions. Here the inner circle of participants are actively involved in the discussion, while those in the outer circle observe the conversation and take notes on the patterns of discussion, giving feedback to the group with the hosts’ assistance.

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About Visitor Voices

The ancient Greeks were known for their love of getting together in a relaxed environment, breaking bread and arguing about philosophy, politics and the meaning of life. Inspired by these ancient symposia, Visitor Voices invites you to explore some of life's age-old questions from a modern perspective, in a casual group environment.

On the third Saturday of every month, Museum staff will guide participants through a Socratic-style discussion among a small group, unleashing your inner philosopher and creating a dialogue between institution and visitor. In 2024 we will explore four major themes – Conflict and Humanity, Law and Freedom, Childhood and Getting Social – with each theme explored over 2–3 sessions, and every session centred around a different question. There's no prior knowledge required, just a sense of curiosity!

Tickets include Museum general admission before or after the session. Please note, due to the discussion of mature themes, this program is recommended for ages 15 and older.

Next session: Sat 9 Mar – Conflict and Humanity 2

To explore other themes and available sessions, see the Visitor Voices hub.