Who stays afloat in the raft debate? – W&M News

The following story originally appeared on the Arts & Sciences website. – Ed.

The highly anticipated Raft Debate, a beloved William & Mary tradition, will be held for the first time in four years at the Sadler Center, Commonwealth Auditorium, on Monday, October 28, at 6:30 p.m

In this intellectually stimulating and comedic event, three professors – each representing a different academic discipline – will argue for the survival of their field after an imaginary shipwreck. The lively debate strikes a balance between humor and science as the professors attempt to convince the audience that their discipline is vital to the future of humanity. However, only one gets a place on the life raft and returns to civilization.

To add a twist to the debate, a fourth faculty member will act as devil’s advocate, sarcastically arguing that neither discipline deserves to be saved. The final winner will be determined by a jury based on audience reactions.

“The Raft Debate is a brilliant mix of intellectual rigor and light-hearted fun. It showcases the wit and expertise of our faculty while engaging the community in unique, entertaining ways,” said Suzanne Raitt, dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. “We’re excited to bring back this beloved tradition.”

This event is free and open to the public. A reception will take place afterwards. Registration is requested. Further details can be found on the event website.

This year’s debaters who will fight for the fate of their disciplines include:

Natural and computer sciences: Joshua Erlich, professor of physics

Erlich specializes in elementary particle theory and cosmology. His research topics include quantum gravity, interpretations of cosmological data and the interaction of gauge theory and string theory. Outside of academia, he is a performer on the Magic à la Carte dinner show and other local magic events.

Humanities: Jessica Paga, associate professor of classical studies

Paga specializes in Greek archeology and history, particularly the Archaic and Classical periods. Her research focuses primarily on ancient architecture, political history and religion. Paga is also an active field archaeologist and has worked extensively in Greece and Italy. When she’s not digging in the dirt and hugging rocks, she enjoys hiking, baking, reading fantasy novels, and watching “The Office.”

Social Sciences: Jennifer Stevens, Associate Professor of Psychological Sciences

Stevens is an expert in cognitive neuroscience, focusing on the effects of surrounding space on cognition and the influence of art and architecture on the brain and behavior. Although she has never officially been part of a debate team, she is confident she has a chance this year as she has a background in baton twirling, tree climbing and tennis. She is also particularly adept at reading and chewing gum at the same time.

Devil’s Advocate: Joshua Gert, Leslie and Naomi Legum, distinguished professors of philosophy

Gert has published two books on rationality and reason and can now explain in detail the ways in which his own behavior is irrational. He has also published a book and numerous essays on color, in which he defends the philosophically controversial view that grass is green and blood red. His current work in philosophy of language attempts to dispel philosophical mysteries by focusing on the language in which the mysterious claims are made.

Judge: Trey Mayo, associate dean for graduate studies, arts and sciences

Mayo oversees the Office of Graduate Studies in Arts & Sciences, including admissions, academic progress and degree awarding. Outside of his administrative duties, he enjoys spending time with his fur daughter (cat), Chewie, and watching classic episodes of “Bob’s Burgers,” “Family Guy,” and “American Dad.” Mayo is enthusiastically taking on his role as this year’s judge.

The Raft Debate is sponsored by Arts & Sciences.

Arts & Sciences employee