 World renowned political philosopher, Prof. Thomas Pogge, came to Bilkent to speak at three scheduled events organized jointly by the Seminar Series on Polity, Political Theory and International Relations, and the Department of Philosophy. The faculty member of Columbia University and the Australian National University delivered a speech titled "World Poverty and Human Rights" on Friday, and on Saturday conducted two symposia: "John Rawls' Theories of Justice," and "Intellectual Property Rights and Access to Essential Medicines."
Prof. Pogge, one of today's foremost living philosophers, is known for incorporating real-time political issues and investigating them in the context of philosophical inquiry. Furthermore, he is one of those few academics trying to put their theories into practice. Pogge is actively engaged in political and social efforts to improve living conditions for the world's poor. He is involved in several multi-party groups working for global development and the eradication of poverty, and is a policy advisor to US presidential candidate, Barack Obama.
 Friday's speech in the C-Block Auditorium attracted a large audience and many were unable to find seats. Saturday's turnout was equally impressive, especially given that it was a weekend event. Thomas Pogge's speeches were enlightening, and his efforts to provide philosophically sound solutions to global problems are inspiring. In a world where civilization is facing many challenges, it was relieving to see a great mind vigorously attempting to find plausible solutions.
Selim Can Sazak (PHIL/I)
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