The University Philosophical Society (or the Phil) was founded in 1684 and has become Trinity’s largest and and most varied society, inviting a huge variety of guests from different backgrounds and arranging debates on the most controversial topics of the day.
Over the summer the Phil’s council works hard at making the magic happen, with the society’s Treasurer Sinead Waldron and Steward Caitlin Sherry acquiring a large quantity of free stuff, not to mention ‘refreshments’ for all new members to enjoy during Fresher’s Week. President Brendan Curran and Secretary Declan Meehan have been busy inviting guests from near and far, with director Neil Jordan coming on the Monday of Fresher’s Week, just one of the many guests lined up for this year.
A few years ago the Phil invited well-known economist Milton Friedman to address the society, only to be told that at 96 years old he might be a little frail to address students. Undeterred the then-President tried again… with the response that he was still old and hadn’t miraculously become a sprightly thirty-nine. Oh Dear.
At least this wasn’t as bad as when playwright Harold Pinter’s invitation was returned unopened with the word ‘DECEASED’ written on the envelope. Rather unfortunate timing!
Normally, however, things work out better than that and this year events are proceeding with a bit more panache. The society’s first two debates on a United Ireland, and Obama’s first year in office as leader of the free world/the secret crush of teenage girls (and some boys) everywhere. They’re sure to be contentious affairs, with much shouting and extravagant hand gestures involved from all concerned, we hope to see you there!
