Serang, June 25, 2025 - The Averroes School of Philosophy in collaboration with the Aqidah and Islamic Philosophy Study Program Student Association (HMPS AFI) of Sultan Maulana Hasanuddin State Islamic University Banten successfully organized an activity entitled A Day of Philosophy with the theme “Plato's sundries”. This event was held offline at the Hall of the Faculty of Ushuluddin and Adab (FUDA) 2nd floor, Campus 2 UIN SMH Banten, and started at 13.00 WIB until completion.
This activity presents speakers who are competent and have a deep understanding in the philosophical field. Among the presenters who attended were:
- Dr. Mohammad Hudaeri, M.Ag. (Dean of FUDA Faculty)
- Dr. Agus Ali Dzawafi, M.Fil.I. (Head of Aqidah and Islamic Philosophy Study Program)
- Ahmad Fadhil, Lc., M.Hum.
- Asep Furqonuddin, M.M.Pd.
In his speech, Muhaimin Ya Salam as the Director of the Averroes School of Philosophy emphasized that this activity is a forum for students to deepen the study of philosophy, discuss, and channel their ideas and thoughts.
“God willing, this activity will be routinely held every month. In the midst of the confusion of philosophy students in finding a space for the actualization of ideas, activities like this are expected to be an effective means for them to actively study and discuss about philosophy,” he explained.
Material Exposure Session
The event was divided into two main sessions. In the first session, Dr. Mohammad Hudaeri, M.Ag. together with Asep Furqonuddin, M.M.Pd. discussed Plato's thought and its relevance in the contemporary era. Dr. Hudaeri highlighted Plato's criticism of democracy, while emphasizing the importance of leadership based on intellect.
“Plato criticizes democracy because he considers this system has the potential to produce leaders chosen by the masses who do not necessarily have deep insight and knowledge. Therefore, ideally the leader is an intellectual figure and is chosen by people who also have intellectual capacity,” he explained.
The second session was filled by Dr. Agus Ali Dzawafi, M.Fil.I. and Ahmad Fadhil, Lc., M.Hum. Both tried to integrate Plato's thoughts with Islamic teachings. In his presentation, Ahmad Fadhil emphasized that although there are intersections between Plato's teachings-especially in the concept of emanation-With Islamic doctrine, it does not necessarily make Plato a prophetic figure.
Interactive Discussion and Closing
The event then continued with an active discussion session. Students seemed enthusiastic in giving responses, questions, and responding to the thoughts of the speakers. As a form of appreciation, the committee gave books to participants who were active in the discussion.
The activity was closed with a photo session with all participants and speakers. The hope is that this One Day Philosophy will be an inspiring first step for students in developing interest, critical reasoning, and philosophical insights in the modern era.
Author and Editor: Faisal and Bayu Asep Saputra
