The UGM Faculty of Philosophy held an Open Senate Meeting to commemorate its 56th anniversary on Friday (August 18), which coincided with the faculty’s founding day.
This year’s anniversary theme is “Local Voices for Global Social Justice,” in line with the faculty’s vision of becoming a trusted philosophy faculty that serves as a center for education, research, and the development of philosophy and local wisdom, producing excellent graduates with Pancasila values.
“To achieve this vision, for 56 years, the Faculty of Philosophy has provided quality philosophy education as a response to society’s need for quality philosophical education,” said the Dean of the Faculty of Philosophy, Dr. Rr. Siti Murtiningsih.
During the meeting, she presented the faculty’s contributions to society, the nation, and the state, particularly in philosophy. The report covered education, student affairs, research, community engagement, and collaboration.
The Rector of UGM, Professor Ova Emilia, MD, was also present to give a speech and congratulations. She mentioned that the Faculty of Philosophy plays an essential role in generating strategic thoughts and ideas in response to the development of societal civilization.
“We must acknowledge that all developments have residual effects that need our attention. Issues will arise, and there will surely be impacts that we need to anticipate,” said the rector.
She discussed several global situations, such as changes in global governance, climate change, food crises, potential vulnerabilities, and domestic dynamics that must be approached wisely.
Amid these situations, she considered the theme of this year’s anniversary to be very relevant, hoping the anniversary would serve as a moment to reaffirm the faculty’s role and responsibility in addressing national and global issues.
“The Faculty of Philosophy plays a crucial role as a learning field for sowing, producing, and distributing profound and relevant ideas for society, as positive change begins with good perspectives and ideas,” expressed the rector.
Chair of Lafinus, Dr. Septiana Dwiputri Maharani, delivered an academic speech titled “Ethics of Caring in the Human-Technology Relationship from Carol Gilligan’s Perspective.”
She noted that technology is a topic of public discourse due to its significant role in daily life and its impact on various aspects of society. The moral development within discussions on gender dynamics in the current societal structure is also greatly influenced by technology.
She presented the thoughts of various philosophers on this issue, ranging from feminist thinkers like Carol Gilligan and Donna Haraway to Don Ihde, a technology philosopher.
According to her, the contributions of these philosophers provide valuable insights into the intersection of gender, technology, and society.
“Their works can serve as the basis for discussing and critically examining the challenges, opportunities, and ethical considerations related to the role and experiences of women in technology,” she stated.
In conclusion, she pointed out that applying the ethics of care to technology implementation offers a human-centered approach and empathy that seeks to align technological progress with individual well-being, relationships, and society.
“By integrating the principles of ethics of care into technology development, dissemination, and use, we can create a more ethical and sustainable technological landscape,” explained Dr. Maharani.
Author: Gloria
Photographer: Donnie