“Socrates in the Cornfields” Encourages Faith Conversations

Cedarville University's Center for Apologetics and Public Christianity will present its second seminar of the year, “Socrates in the Cornfields,” on October 25 from 8-9 p.m. in the Center for Biblical and Theological Studies, Room 104. It is open to public.

The first half of the event will be a panel discussion with Dr. John Gilhooly, assistant professor of philosophy and theology, and Dr. Joshua Kira, assistant professor of philosophy and theology, moderated by Dr. Daniel DeWitt, associate professor of applied theology and apologetics and director for the Center for Biblical Apologetics and Public Christianity. All questions will focus on philosophy and apologetics. However, none of the questions will be given to Gilhooly and Kira prior to the session, requiring them to answer DeWitt’s questions on the spot — hence the reference to Socrates, the legendary Greek philosopher famous for this pattern of inquiry.

“Dr. Kira and I had to read all of these books, and we want to do something useful with that knowledge,” explained Gilhooly. “So, being able to make people more confident talking about their faith is a valuable service, and we are ready to serve.”

During the second half of the event, DeWitt will lead an informal question and answer time between the audience and Gilhooly and Kira, where any question associated with public Christianity is welcomed.

"In a world of bad arguments, disunity and rising secularization, it is important for believers to take time not only to understand their own perspective but that of others,” emphasized Kira. “Join us for a night where we talk theology, philosophy and apologetics, with the aim of broaching some of the important historical and contemporary debates concerning God and his world."

Located in southwest Ohio, Cedarville University is an accredited, Christ-centered, Baptist institution with an enrollment of 4,193 undergraduate, graduate and online students in more than 150 areas of study. Founded in 1887, Cedarville is recognized nationally for its authentic Christian community, rigorous academic programs, strong graduation and retention rates, accredited professional and health science offerings and leading student satisfaction ratings. For more information about the University, visit www.cedarville.edu.