Liberating Conversations series draws on globally top 10 ranked program to tackle ai, society and what really matters
The University of Wollongong (UOW) is inviting students, staff and the broader community to experience its globally recognised philosophy program firsthand, a program ranked 6th in the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject.
On Wednesday 1 April, the School of Liberal Arts will host the first of its Liberating Conversations series, a weekly public lecture offering a unique opportunity to engage with big ideas and experience why UOW's philosophy program is considered one of the very best in the world.
Senior Professor Daniel Hutto, a leading figure in contemporary philosophy, said the series brings philosophy into everyday life in an accessible and engaging way.
"Liberating Conversations is a chance for anyone, regardless of background, to step into those discussions. You don't need to be an expert, just curious. If you want to better understand the world and your place in it, this is a great place to start," Professor Hutto said.
"These conversations are about thinking carefully and collectively about what matters and why it matters. At a time when we're grappling with rapid advances in artificial intelligence, global uncertainty and big societal challenges, philosophy has never been more important. It gives us the tools to think critically, question assumptions and make sense of complex issues that don't have easy answers."
The series will ask questions that sit at the heart of human experience and society. The first conversations will explore topics, including thinking about and with AI, what universities are for, global philosophy, and why fiction matters.
This year UOW launched a Liberal Arts major that is open to all students across the University whatever their primary degree. Saffiya Bhimani is one of the students who took the opportunity to try the Liberal Arts major. Three weeks in she is so impressed with the course that she is considering switching to a philosophy degree.
"It's a really open and engaging environment where you feel comfortable sharing ideas and hearing different perspectives," Saffiya said.
"It has completely changed how I think about philosophy. It's not just abstract theory, it connects directly to real-world issues and everyday life."
Event details
What: Liberating Conversations
When: Wednesday 1 April, 4:00pm – 5:30pm
Where: Building 20, Room 5, UOW Main Campus
Cost: Free
Registration required: https://tally.so/r/obOrDN
