Journalist Elena Kostyuchenko and translator Bela Shayevich in conversation with the 2023-24 co-editors-in-chief of The Harper Review.

Where Principles Meet Practice

Parrhesia (par-uh-ZEE-uh), to speak freely and openly, signifies the Program's commitment to fostering vigorous, inclusive, and productive discourse on campus and in communities. Rooted in the University of Chicago Principles of Free Expression, The Parrhesia Public Thought and Discourse program offers innovative undergraduate curriculum, programming, and outreach in freedom of expression and the theory and practice of discourse.

The Program follows a holistic approach to free expression and public discourse, recognizing that the classroom is only one space among many in which students exchange their ideas and views and that free expression must be practiced non scholae, sed vitae. In concentric circles, the Program is structured to radiate outward beyond the immediate space of the University. With an education in discourse, students and graduates of the Parrhesia program learn to engage with and make a difference in their communities.

Left, Journalist Elena Kostyuchenko and translator Bela Shayevich in conversation with the 2023-24 co-editors-in-chief of The Harper Review. Photo by Jason Smith.

Parrhesia's Many Facets

Science Communication

Science Communication

Combining theory and practice, the Minor prepares students to communicate about scientific findings, practices, and culture across a wide range of popular formats including print, audio, video, and exhibits.

Democratic Discourse

Democratic Discourse

Democratic Discourses promotes public dialogue and deliberation, develops educational programs, and facilitates community conversations that build civic capacity.

Public Thinking

Public Thinking

An initiative dedicated to the promotion of a more thoughtful, humane, and pluralistic public conversation.

Night Owls

Night Owls

The Department of Philosophy's Night Owls series features late-night, faculty-led conversations on big questions designed to inspire students' own philosophical explorations.

Undergraduate Research

Undergraduate Research

The Parrhesia Program supports undergraduate research studying key concepts, issues, events, etc. connected to free speech, academic freedom, public discourse, censorship, modern communication and media cultures, to name just a few.

Summer Workshops

Summer Workshops

The Summer Workshop provides a space for undergraduate students interested in journalism, criticism, politics, art, and nonprofit work to learn about and practice engaging the public through dialogue and writing.