This term, Year 10 Philosophy and Reason students have been learning about the origins of Political Philosophy. They have spent the first few weeks musing over ancient discussions and ideas on politics, power and the role of the state by Greek philosophers such as Socrates, Plato and Aristotle. In Week 4, we took a field trip to the Brisbane CBD to see whether any of their ideas have stood the test of time and to also ponder what we believe a society needs to function well.
The day began with a tour of the recently opened Queensland Holocaust Museum with challenging discussions on history and what can go wrong when too much power is given to corrupt leaders.
We then went for lunch on Queen Street Mall – taking in the historical sights along the way and emphasising the connections between modern-day politics and capitalism/consumerism (… and enjoying some of those pleasures… KFC, Starbucks, Krispy Kreme, while drooling over merch at their favourite stores).
We regrouped and then it was off to Queensland Parliament House, where we toured the home of our State Politicians and took in the grandeur of the old heritage buildings, learning the history of our government and Westminster system and even acting out a serious political debate (Cats vs Dogs) in the sitting room.
After Parliament, it was off to South Bank to the Cultural Precinct where we wandered the grounds, watching the Olympics on the public screen and taking a moment on the sun chairs before we visited the Museum, Art Gallery, GOMA and the State Library. We questioned what purpose the Arts play in a democracy and why places of culture and expression are important in society.
We ended the day in perfect philosopher style, by indulging in the cuisine of the Greeks at Zeus. Because every great discussion is made even better by food and wars are resolved by breaking bread together. All in all, it was a fantastic day with a great group of kids who continue to amaze me in their search for answers to why things are the way they are and how we can build on the foundations of the past for a brighter future.
Bobbie Briggs, Secondary Teacher
You can see all the photos HERE.
