November 1, 2023, by apyjm17
Think You Know What To Expect When You’re Expecting?
Laurie Paul Vs. Karl Egerton Debate
DING DING DING!🥊
A head-to-head of thoughts, ideas and intellectual banter took place during last week’s passionate Transformative Experiences Debate, held in the impressive David Ross Sports Village, home of the university’s prestigious graduation ceremonies.
As we took our seats, we knew we were in for a treat, with the University of Nottingham’s very own lecturer, Karl Egerton taking on esteemed Philosopher Laurie Paul, who was ready to discuss her work, What You Can’t Expect When You’re expecting, 2015. https://shorturl.at/mxKSX
Laurie Paul highlighted a striking portrait of how life altering transformative experiences can put our entire sense of self to the test.
She argued that we can’t know or understand the power of these experiences until they have happened to us personally.
Picture this: you’re deciding whether you want a baby!
(Might be a good idea to leave this thought until after university)👶
Typical questions might include:
- Am I financially secure enough to have a baby?
- Will a baby add value or hinder my life choices?
Laurie argued that you can’t fully understand or predict what becoming a parent will entail. Yes, you can ask friends or family what it is like, but this doesn’t give a true reflection of how you will feel in this circumstance. Becoming a parent involves navigating unchartered territory, and Laurie argues that we cannot possibly know the outcome until we have personally experienced it.
NEVERTHELESS, Karl was quick to disagree, arguing that he was able to acquire substantial knowledge about parenting before having a child. While agreeing that nothing can fully prepare you for becoming a parent, Karl believes you can gain exposure and understanding to predict the potential impact of having a child.
After hearing both Laurie and Karl’s take on anticipating the outcome of becoming a parent, I am leaning towards Laurie’s view (sorry Karl) as I agree that you can’t prepare for hugely transformative experiences such as parenthood.
What do you think?
Philosophy at University of Nottingham
The audience were completely engrossed in this lively debate. If you love discussing, questioning and sharing ideas and insights, this department is the place to be. Philosophy not only enables students to think clearly, creatively and logically, it also develops transferable skills such as problem solving, analytical thinking and communication.
You can check out other topics included in Philosophy at University of Nottingham by following this link🎓:
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