It’s good to talk at Kibble

Young people mark World Philosophy Day

Religion, politics and morality were all on the agenda as the young people of Paisley’s Kibble school took part in UNESCO’s World Philosophy Day.

A panel debate with Reverend Dennis Carlin, Councillor Mags McLaren and Kibble headteacher Tom Laurie took questions from young people on interesting topics such as the existence of God, assisted suicide, legalising cannabis, and the justification for experiments involving animals.

World Philosophy Day is a global celebration targeted at young people that is designed to encourage critical thinking, independent thought and debate.

It was first held in 2005, and it has grown into a major event with thousands of participants and events on every continent.

Speaking after the debate, Mr Laurie said: “The quality of the debate and the ideas being discussed in the room were first class. Being able to interact and hear first-hand from the panel has been hugely valuable for our pupils.

“Philosophy is not an abstract concept that applies to a few academics in a university.

“It is something that allows us to contemplate the world we live in and our place in it. I want to thank our guests who took part in today’s event and got the young people thinking.”

Father Carlin, a priest of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Paisley, said: “This is the second time I have participated in this debate with young people from Kibble and I am amazed at how well they argued their differing points of view.

“The articulate and confident nature in how they expressed their opinions is a credit to themselves. My thanks go to the staff and young people at Kibble for inviting me along.”

Councillor McLaren said there were many thoughtful questions and points on what can be considered controversial issues.

She said: “It was heartening to hear how the young people respectfully heard each other’s point of view.”

The quality of the debate and the ideas being discussed were first class Tom Laurie