Brief Encounter - Siobhan McKeown
Position:
Graduate student (Philosophy); Co-organiser of the "What is Philosophy?" Research Project
Which means:
I am a graduate student involved in planning, setting up, and running a 6 month interdisciplinary research project in the Philosophy Department on the topic of "What is Philosophy?" and am working closely with e-lab to integrate current technology into academic practice.
Favourite phrase:
"Among the rights man claims for himself, he forgets that of being stupid."
Least favourite phrase:
"We have forgotten the question of the meaning of being."
Life before Warwick:
Studied Philosophy at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne
Smartest career move:
Given that I’m studying philosophy, arguably I don’t have a career. Choosing to pursue philosophy in light of that is either smart or very foolish, depending on your perspective.
Best thing about working at Warwick:
Studying Philosophy.
Worst thing about working at Warwick:
Departmental Politics.
People are always surprised to learn this about me, but...
I can put my entire fist in my mouth.
Major achievement to date?
Reading Kant’s 1st Critique (in progress).
What do you treasure most?
My body, without it I am nothing.
Any hidden talents?
My cooking is legendary – I guess that’s not very hidden but my only other talent is whole fist-mouth thing.
If you could change one thing in the University overnight, what would it be?
Eradicate departmental politics (that and a proper restaurant on campus, with a maitre’d).
Which person inspires you most, and why?
The Underground Man from Dostoevsky’s “Notes from the Underground” because when I’m in a bad mood he says exactly what I’m thinking.
Your all-time favourite record or piece of music?
Beethoven’s 9th Symphony.
Your favourite hobby or pastime?
Buying shoes.