Academic showdown: Who will stay afloat in the Raft Debate?
The highly anticipated Raft Debate, a much-loved William & Mary tradition, will return for the first time in four years to Sadler Center, Commonwealth Auditorium on Monday, Oct. 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 scholarship as the professors seek to convince the audience that their discipline is essential for humanity’s future. However, only one will earn a place on the life raft and return to civilization.
Adding a twist to the debate, a fourth faculty member will act as the devil’s advocate, sarcastically arguing that none of the disciplines deserve to be saved. The ultimate winner will be determined by a judge based on audience reactions.
“The Raft Debate is a brilliant blend of intellectual rigor and lighthearted fun. It showcases the wit and expertise of our faculty while engaging the community in a unique, entertaining way,” said Suzanne Raitt, dean of the Faculty of Arts & Sciences. “We’re thrilled to bring back this beloved tradition.”
This event is free and open to the public and a reception will follow. Registration is requested. For additional details, please visit the event webpage.
This year’s debaters, who will fight for the fate of their disciplines, include:
Natural and Computational 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 interplay between gauge theory and string theory. Outside of academia, he is a cast member of the and other local magic events.
Humanities: Jessica Paga, Associate Professor of Classical Studies
Paga specializes in Greek archaeology and history, particularly of the Archaic and Classical periods. Her research is primarily focused on ancient architecture, political history, and religion. Paga is also an active field archaeologist and has worked extensively across Greece and Italy. When she isn’t digging in the dirt and hugging rocks, she enjoys hiking, baking, reading fantasy novels and binge-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 brain and behavior. While she’s never officially been part of a debate team, she is confident in her chances this year, drawing from a background in baton twirling, tree climbing and tennis. She’s also notably adept at reading and chewing gum simultaneously.
Devil’s Advocate: Joshua Gert, Leslie and Naomi Legum Distinguished Professor of Philosophy
Gert has published a pair of books on rationality and reason and can now explain in detail the various ways in which his own behavior is irrational. He has also published a book and numerous papers on color, defending the philosophically controversial views 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, Assistant Dean for Graduate Studies, Arts & Sciences
Mayo oversees the Office of Graduate Studies in Arts & Sciences, including admissions, academic progress and degree conferral. Outside 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 steps into his role as this year’s judge with enthusiasm.
The Raft Debate is sponsored by Arts & Sciences.
