Stephen Miller, Oakwood’s Humanities Chair and teacher of philosophy, presented at The 24^th World Congress of Philosophy celebrated at the University of Peking, China from  August 13th to the 20th. The theme of the event was “Learning To Be Human.”

The central question for his panel was “Teaching Philosophy: An International Perspective on Teaching Pre-University Philosophy.” Primarily, the emphasis was on teaching philosophy and ethics at the high school level. He also spoke about the national role that PLATO, the Philosophy Learning and Teaching Organization, of which he is the Treasurer, has in this context. Stephen was also asked to write a chapter for a book, which will be published over the next few months: “Restoring Wonder: The Benefits and Challenges of Doing Philosophy in Mixed-aged Groups”. 

While in China Stephen met with current and former Oakwood students and spent time with their families, touring their business and sharing meals. 

Stephen, who has been at Oakwood since 1999, holds a B.A. in Religious Studies and Philosophy from the College of William and Mary and an M.A. in Philosophy from New York University. He teaches Philosophy part-time at Marist College, and serves on the Board of Directors of the United Nations Association Mid Hudson Valley Chapter. Before coming to Oakwood Friends, Stephen taught at Dutchess Day School and at two public high schools in Brooklyn.

The Poughkeepsie Journal ran this story about his trip upon his return. Click here to read article.