Philosophy Café: Addiction, Freedom, and Moral Character by Dr. David Elliott

The Philosophy Café is an open exchange of philosophical ideas led by a University of Regina Philosophy Professor or a Graduate Student. The series runs each fall and winter semester. We invite you to our second discussion in the Philosophy Café Fall series presented by Dr. David Elliott who is a Professor of Philosophy at the U of R. “Addiction, Freedom, and Moral Character” There are at least two main conceptions of addiction. First, addiction is a specific *disease*, particularly of the brain’s neurophysiology. Second, addiction is a cognitive choice made by individuals characterized by the rational considerations of competing harms, benefits and risks. It will be suggested that neither of these two important models seems to capture adequately all of the central features of addiction. Instead, thinking of addiction as a learned, developmental process – the development of a habit or character trait – may have more promise. In this regard, some familiar moral philosophers who have offered much on the topic of habituation – Aristotle and Aquinas – may be useful in understanding this important issue. This event is free and everyone is welcome to attend!

More information at: http://www.uregina.ca/events/philosophy-cafe-addiction-freedom-and-moral-character