Public Lecture: Beyond Science: Philosophy’s Insight into Our Place in the Universe

About the Lecture

What is the role of philosophy in a digital and scientific world? In this talk I present the view that central questions concerning the human condition and our place in the universe fall under the domain of philosophy, not science. This is because science is ontologically neutral, meaning it can only tell us how the universe behaves, not what it is. Thus, scientific knowledge is limited to the relations between physical entities but is silent about their intrinsic natures. Therefore, deeper questions pertaining to human existence in the world should be considered as philosophical, not scientific questions.

About the Event

Time: Wednesday, 22nd February 2023

Time: 7.00pm

Location: Cobden Hall, Carlow College

About Killian McGrath

Originally from Co. Carlow, and a past pupil of Carlow CBS, Killian McGrath completed a BA in Mathematical Physics and German at NUI Maynooth. His journey into philosophy began during his studies abroad at the University of Munich (LMU), where he enrolled in the philosophy faculty. At LMU, he was introduced to a wide range of classical, continental, and contemporary philosophical ideas, including the philosophy of science, which only served to solidify his interest in the field. This experience prompted him to continue his philosophical education and delve deeper into the subject.

At LMU, he completed a research focused masters in 2016 on topics in the philosophy of science and mind under supervision of contemporary philosophers Richard Dawid and Stephan Hartmann, the latter became his doctoral supervisor. His primary research focus is at the intersection between analytic philosophy of mind, philosophy of science and continental philosophy. At school, he was given space to develop his interest in music and arts which led him to complete an MA in Music at University College Cork in 2018.

Currently, Killian is a lecturer in philosophy at LMU and works as subject-head of music at a private Catholic school in Munich. Along the way he has worked in Munich’s financial sector, a tech company in Cork, a FinTech start-up, and his family business. While at NUIM and UCC, he enjoyed rowing and over the years engaged in many musical events. Notable musical experiences include supporting Mick Hanly & Friends in 2009 and collaborating with accomplished Irish musicians and songwriters. He maintains a strong connection with Carlow and visits at every opportunity.

Philosophy is a valuable field of study that will become increasingly important in the 21st century, as we face challenges such as volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity. It is especially relevant in areas such as digitalisation, democracy, ethics and public policy, and artificial intelligence. Additionally, philosophy continues to address fundamental questions that remain significant and timeless.

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