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Department of Philosophy Undergraduate Colloquium Series presents:
Taboo Busting - A Case Study
Speaker: Thomas Bird
Day/Date: Friday, November 18, 2016
Time: 4:30 p.m.
Location: C-630
In this presentation, I examine the concept of taboo and how it is used to prohibit behavior. I then argue that the concept is ineffective, unnecessary, and sometimes nothing more than unjustified oppression. The most dangerous taboo of all is that it is taboo to question why something is taboo. I argue that we should eschew the concept of taboo, and freely question - and answer - any taboo at all. As a case study in busting taboos, I question one of the most prevalent taboos in Canada today - pedophilia. In my examination of pedophilia, I argue that several key concepts, including consent and rape, need to be revised. In light of these revisions, I hold that our treatment of pedophiles is unjustifiably oppressive. Furthermore, I conclude that the vehement opposition to all pedophilic activity is suspect and in need of further justification.
Everyone is welcome
Contact:
Bev Garnett | bev.garnett@uleth.ca | (403) 380-1894
