Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a philosophy major?

Nope. Ideas come to everyone, and sharing ideas is what this conference is all about. Students who are not majors or minors but who enjoy philosophical thinking in related disciplines, e.g. History, Sociology, Anthropology, Art, Psychology, International Human Rights, Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, Political Science, English, etc., are strongly encouraged to submit papers. Unsure about whether your paper is philosophical? Feel free to reach out to: submit@websterphilosophyconference.com

Why should I submit a paper?

It’s a great opportunity to share your ideas and get feedback in a supportive environment
It’s an impressive accomplishment to list on your resumé or C.V.
It looks great on graduate school, law school, or medical school applications
It can help you become a better writer and public speaker
It can help prepare you for talking to potential employers about your ideas
You’ll get to network with other students and have dinner with our keynote speaker

What’s expected in a philosophy paper?

Consider this page for helpful hints: http://www.jimpryor.net/teaching/guidelines/writing.html
Your thesis should indicate your position, or what you plan to argue, not merely the general topic you plan to discuss.
Try to avoid asking a question in order to make a point. When you ask, for example, “Why could it not be the case that X?” you have not yet established that X is the case.
Throughout, or toward the end of your paper, consider, and then respond to, possible objections and alternatives to your argument.
For the sake of inclusivity, please use gender neutral language and situate yourself as an author. You are encouraged to use “I” in order to clarify what you believe and to convince your readers of your beliefs.

Who will review my paper?

Submissions will be reviewed by undergraduate Webster University Philosophy majors

What is a panel? How do I propose one?

A panel presentation consists of a small group of people (typically 3-4) gathered to share a variety of perspectives on a topic. Proposals should be at least three pages long, should list the names of all participants, and should provide a detailed outline of the philosophical question and/or topic to be discussed. Proposals should be sure to clarify the unique or specific contributions each panel member will make to the discussion.

Is multimedia required?

No. While multimedia presentations are encouraged, you may also simply read your paper. If you decide not to prepare a multimedia presentation, it can be helpful to find ways to guide the audience through your main ideas. This might mean providing a written handout with highlights or quotations, or simply being prepared to read slowly in order to enhance accessibility.

What is the conference setting like?

Students will be introduced by their peers, present their work for about 20 minutes, and then the audience will ask questions and engage in discussion
Presenters will have a podium and access to a computer and projector, if needed
The conference aims to foster curiosity and to promote the exchange of ideas in a safe and supportive environment
Tables are arranged so that conference participants can see and talk with one another

What else will I get out of the experience?

Aside from personal and professional growth? A potential publication! Selected papers will also be published in the Webster Undergraduate Philosophy Journal Sophia!

What are the guidelines for paper proposals?

Proposals should be submitted no later than Friday, February 14, 2020 to: submit@websterphilosophyconference.com
Papers should be 7-10 pages long (double-spaced, 12-point font). Papers can be on any philosophical topic and may have been submitted for a previous class assignment
Submissions should be anonymous: emails should contain the applicant’s name and the title of the paper, but no names or identifying information should be included on the attached paper itself (please be sure your name is not listed in the header either)
Attachments should be in .pdf format