Tiffany Petricini, Assistant Teaching Professor of Communication Studies, Penn State Shenango

Brian Onishi, Assistant Professor of Philosophy and Environmental Studies, Penn State Altoona

The purpose of the Phenomenological Discussion Group is to provide an opportunity for individuals to engage in meaningful conversations about their areas of expertise and engage with the concept of phenomenology.

The objectives of this phenomenological discussion group are twofold:

1. To provide an opportunity for individuals to engage in meaningful conversations about their areas of expertise and the intersections with phenomenology, broadening the entire group’s understanding.
2. To explore the concept of phenomenology and its application to our lives, research, and teaching experiences.

 Schedule of Events and Structure

These discussions will take place via Zoom, and all who are interested are welcome. For more information contact Tiffany Petricini (tzr106@psu.edu)

The 2025-2026 meetings will be facilitated by pre-determined faculty who will select the reading for the meeting and help guide the conversations and provide support to the group. Each session will begin with an introduction. The group will then be led in discussion by the discussion leader for the day. The group will then discuss a range of topics related to phenomenology, such as our relationship with the world, our perception of time, and our understanding of self. The group will also be encouraged to share their own experiences and reflect on how these experiences shape their view of the world.

• September: The Phenomenology of Technology and AI
• October: Start Making Sense: How Existential Psychology Can Help Us Build Meaningful Lives in Absurd Times
• November: Horrorism
• February: Phenomenology of Illness
• March: Crisis of the European Mind
• April: TBD