The Doctor of Philosophy from Oxford University Delivered a Lecture to Ostroh Academy Students

September 26, 2024

On September 26, The National University of Ostroh Academy had the honor of hosting a lecture by Bruce Anderson, PhD, a distinguished figure from the University of Oxford. His lecture, aimed at equipping and assisting local believers in creating and supporting centres of theological and leadership development, was a significant event that brought profound insights and enlightenment to the audience. Bruce Anderson, also the founder and president of the Institute for Reformation, shared his profound insights on the history of Eastern Europe and the birth of liberal philosophy, a topic of great relevance to our institution.

A welcoming address was pronounced by Dmytro Shevchuk, Doctor of Science (Philosophy), Professor and Vice-Rector for Research and Teaching at the NaUOA:

"Bruce Anderson is a great friend of Ukraine and Ostroh Academy. His scientific interests are related to the history of Eastern Europe in the 16th - 17th centuries. In particular, he examines the birth and development of liberal philosophy and the understanding of freedom by intellectuals who lived in our part of the European continent. The lecture he offered to the students was devoted to the topic of university development. In particular, Mr. Bruce presents the emergence and implementation of the idea of "liberal arts" in education, which, as it is known, was the principle of education at the ancient Ostroh Academy. We sincerely thank Dr. Bruce Anderson for supporting Ukraine in these difficult times for our country."

Traditionally, in Western culture, there are three types of authority in society: the judge, the priest, and the university lecturer. This illustrates the significant role that universities play in influencing culture and society. During the meeting, Bruce Anderson talked about what ideas gave rise to the university as an institution and where the term "university" itself comes from.

In addition, the speaker focused his attention on revealing the issues that concern today's students, namely where my university came from and why I am studying here; how the methods and content of university studies in previous centuries give us ideas about how I can improve my studies as a student today; what is the broader connection between the university and its ideas, my studies and how it all affects the world we live in; can I change the world with my studies.

The meeting concluded with a vibrant discussion, during which students actively engaged with the speaker, expressing their opinions and receiving comprehensive answers to their questions. This interactive session left the audience feeling engaged and involved in the discourse, fostering a sense of community and shared learning.

"We live in a time when academic education is, unfortunately, often devalued. However, as intellectuals noted earlier: "Knowledge is power." Bruce Anderson shared the historiography of the university's development as an institution, tips on effective learning and interesting stories from his life. It is admirable that the students actively interacted with Mr. Anderson and were able to get answers to a wide variety of questions",