Library to host ‘What Do We Stand For?’ on Sept. 3

Marshalltown Public Library is hosting philosopher Dr. Scott Samuelson for a lively discussion entitled "What Do We Stand For?" at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 3 in the library's community room. Samuelson will explore the major philosophical ideas that inspired the founding of the United States: freedom, rights, ideals, purpose of a republic and civic engagement. The presentation will be followed by conversation, connecting historical ideas to contemporary life.

An award-winning philosopher and writer known for bringing philosophy to the public, Samuelson is the author of three books: "Rome as a Guide to the Good Life" (2023), "Seven Ways of Looking at Pointless Suffering" (2018) and "The Deepest Human Life: An Introduction to Philosophy for Everyone" (2014). Among his many essays and articles, "Why I Teach Plato to Plumbers" in The Atlantic has been widely circulated. He holds a joint position at Iowa State University in Extension & Outreach and Philosophy & Religious Studies.

For questions, call the library at 641-754-5738 ext. 2 or visit the library's website at www.marshalltownlibrary.org.

This program is made possible by Humanities Iowa.