Letters to the editor are valuable prompts for thought, and often leave readers and Cook County citizens with the desire to connect with each other and pursue clarification of the nuances of a civic, ethical or moral dilemma. A debate and discussion society has been developed at Cook County High School to help bring letter writers and readers together. A student-run organization with faculty advisors, we are an intellectual society engaging in discussion and debate concerning topics of civic and ethical interest. We seek to offer a space in which philosophical discussion rooted in critical thinking can positively impact individuals and the community at large.
We will have two meetings per month; students will meet with each other on the second week of the month, and the community in the fourth week at the Cook County Community Center. The meetings will begin with a formal debate of the chosen topic. Following this, members will form discussion groups and review the material using various methods, such as Paideia, Socratic method and Structured Academic Controversy.
All students and adults are welcome, regardless of profession or political affiliation. Participants will engage, listen, and use critical thinking to solve issues. Our mission is to challenge our opinions through civil arguments that seek to gain more clarification through others’ perspectives and supporting evidence. A meeting will be held on Thursday, December 19, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Cook County Community Center.
If you have any questions about how to participate in upcoming meetings, please contact CCHS junior Andrew Thompson at arthompson458@yahoo.com or (218) 387-2164, or faculty advisor David Liechty at dliechty@isd166. k12.mn.us, or (218) 387-2271 ext. 108.
Andrew Thompson
David Liechty
Grand Marais
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