Murray State’s Department of English and Philosophy hosts World Philosophy Day event
By Samuel Henley | Nov 12, 2026
MURRAY, Ky. — Murray State University’s Department of English and Philosophy will host a celebration of World Philosophy Day on Tuesday, Nov. 17 outside Waterfield Library from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Murray State community and public are welcome to drop by, check out the fun programming and learn more about one of the oldest areas of study.
The event will celebrate the achievements of the field by highlighting philosophy scholars of the past and exploring the new faces of the present.
“The goal of the event is to introduce students to the fun, interesting, puzzling and at times hilarious questions philosophers seek to answer,” said Dr. Michelle Panchuk, associate professor of philosophy at Murray State and the organizer of the event. “Unlike many areas of study at the University, most students don't come to college knowing what philosophy is, why someone might enjoy studying it, or what they could do with a philosophy major or minor after college. This event seeks to bridge that gap.”
Students can participate in a number of activities, including a metaphysics game that involves rolling a die to answer questions related to concepts like personal identity, brain swapping and teleportation. Another group could answer different prompts of the” trolley problem,” a classic thought experiment designed to help a person’s understanding of ethics. Candy will be offered, but the rules by which it is received will be decided by the students themselves, an example of political philosopher John Rawls’ “Veil of Ignorance” experiment that individuals can learn more about at the event. There will also be a crafts area for making button pins with pictures of and quotes from different philosophers, the component to the event Panchuk is most looking forward to.
“Plato says that philosophy begins in wonder,” said Panchuk, “and few things bring me more joy than helping others taste that sense of wonder with me.”
Contact Dr. Michelle Panchuk at mpanchuk@murraystate.edu with any questions. To learn more about the philosophy program, visit murraystate.edu/philosophy.