IPSA, the International Philosophy Students Association, is a student organization that is being started almost from scratch this year. There were no members remaining from the year 2007-2008, and last year’s activities are minimal. IPSA has started this year with a bang, however, with a rash of events already past, and many more coming. The Voice sat down with the president of the association, Josh Blackmore.

The Voice -How many members do you have and what is your target group?

Blackmore: We have an excellent executive committee of 12 people, as well as a few extras planning particular events. Our largest events have pulled in 30-40 people, mostly from the philosophy program. However, we are also eager to share our activities with students from other programs. Happily, we are seeing more and more Belgian students join us in our activities.

The Voice -What is the main goal of the organization?

Blackmore: We have three main goals: first, to promote social interaction among international and Belgian philosophy students, second to increase the number of social and academic events that cater particularly to philosophically-minded individuals. Finally simply to get these students away from the books and towards the fun!

The Voice -What are the benefits for the members?

Blackmore: Well, our social events give our members a chance to unwind and meet new people with similar interests, and our academic events, such as our colloquia and reading groups, allow for our members to learn from each other as well as develop their academic experience.

The Voice -What sort of events do you organize throughout the year?

Blackmore: We plan both social events and academic events. Our social events include parties, cantus nights, pub nights, movie nights, and bread lunches every Wednesday in the HIW student lounge. All are welcome to join! Our academic events include reading groups (including one on Marx’s Das Capital), colloquia (e.g., “An Evening with Heidegger”), and a graduate conference which is being planned for next March. Finally a philosophical tour of Amsterdam, concentrating especially on Spinoza, is being planned.

The Voice -How are you funding your events?

Blackmore: We are currently making it by through entry fees and food and beverage sales. However, this is usually just enough to break even. So, we are also seeking outside funding from InBev and LOKO.

The Voice -You said one of your main goals is to increase interaction between Belgian and international students. How are you doing this?

Blackmore: We are working closely with NFK, the Flemish philosophy students’ organization, in planning joint events. They have been a great help with getting us started this year, with support, suggestions, and funding. A great example is our International Cantus, in which a group of the Flemish students helped the international students understand and enjoy this unique experience!

The Voice -How can you be contacted?

Blackmore: The best way to find out about us is to visit our facebook page. Just search IPSA (International Philosophy Student’s Association). Otherwise you can come to one of our bread lunches, held weekly at 1 PM on Wednesdays in the HIW student lounge. Finally you can contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Don’t delay, join today! |