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Reason & Rationality Convivial Conversation Guidelines Tips for Productive and Enriching Conversation Reason & Rationality equips high school students with the tools to think rigorously about complex questions, separate fact from ideology, and engage in lively intellectual exchange. Our classes are filled with humor, and rooted in relatable discussions. Students sharpen their critical thinking and communication skills and leave with a grasp of the intellectual frameworks that empower them to become confident independent thinkers. At Reason & Rationality, we welcome honest, intellectually rigorous conversations on topics that are often avoided in traditional high school settings—politics, religion, ethics, personal values, and more. These discussions can be deeply rewarding but also require maturity, self-awareness, and respect. Everyone involved, students and instructors, shares responsibility for creating an open, thoughtful, and inclusive environment. We are committed to fostering dialogue, not debate. The goal is to understand and explore different perspectives, not to win arguments or persuade others of a particular ideology. Our aim is to create not only a “safe space,” but a brave space—where intellectual courage and emotional maturity go hand in hand. Guidelines for Discussion The Reason & Rationality community is built on the belief that respectful disagreement is essential to intellectual growth. We are here to think hard, listen deeply, and learn from one another even when we disagree. Reason & Rationality Core Discussion Values Intellectual Humility: Be open to the idea that your beliefs might be incomplete or even wrong. Listening is not just polite; it’s how we grow. Curiosity Over Certainty: Ask questions not to trap or win, but to understand. Approach others with a genuine interest in how they see the world. Clarity Over Volume: You don’t have to speak first or the loudest. Take time to gather your thoughts. Silence can be powerful. When used properly, “strategic pauses” can have a powerful impact. Communal Understanding and Respect for Identity: Philosophical inquiry asks us to move from personal perspective to public reasoning by offering arguments others can assess without reference to individual identity or experience. This reflects a long-standing philosophical commitment to shared standards of justification. To support that, students should generally refrain from bringing racial, gender, sexual, or political identities or beliefs into discussion, unless clearly necessary to aiding communal understanding. Respectful disagreement on such matters is welcome when relevant. Focus creates freedom. In thoughtful philosophical discussion, it is often structure that creates the space for real openness and respect. Our conversations should remain centered on the argument at hand, rather than drifting into a free-form exchange of personal opinions. This discipline ensures that all participants stay in true conversation and can genuinely be heard. Without such focus, even well-meaning attempts at “safe” dialogue can unravel, leading to misunderstanding or discomfort. Critique with Care: Challenge ideas rigorously. Avoid turning critique into character judgment. If in doubt, ask a question before making a claim. Tips for Students We want Reason & Rationality to be a space where students speak openly and also listen generously. Here are some principles to keep in mind when you engage in discussion: Speak to Understand, Not Just to Persuade: The goal is to explore ideas together, not to "win" an argument. Your role is to contribute thoughtfully and help others feel safe doing the same. Help Steer the Conversation Constructively: If things seem off track or overly repetitive, try gently refocusing the group. Offer Suggestions When There’s a Stalemate: If a discussion feels stuck, propose a new approach. “It seems like we both have different facts that inform our perspectives. Maybe we can talk about our underlying values instead since we disagree about the evidence?” Ask Questions and Clarify: If something doesn’t make sense or is confusing, ask. Rephrasing what you’ve heard is also a powerful way to check understanding. “Let me see if I can restate your argument…” Assume Good Intentions: People communicate differently across cultures and personalities. What may come off as rude or off-putting in one culture is completely polite in another. Try to interpret others' words in the most generous way possible. Critique Ideas, Not People: Disagreement is welcome; disrespect is not. Challenge positions, not identities. “I see it differently because…” instead of “That’s a ridiculous thing to say.” Handle Interruptions Respectfully: If you feel cut off, speak up calmly. “I really want to hear your perspective—could I just finish my thought first?” Clarify When Misunderstood: You can always restate your point, or ask others to reflect back what they heard: “Let me try to say it another way…” “Can you tell me what you heard me say? I want to make sure I was clear.” Express Discomfort Thoughtfully: If something bothers you, it’s okay to say so kindly and clearly. Describe the action, not the person’s intent. “When you said X, I felt Y.” “I don’t think that was your intention, but that comment landed in a hard way for me.” If it feels tense then try a little humor: A light, respectful joke can ease tension and help everyone breathe. Just make sure you're laughing with people, not at them and that the moment calls for it. Reason & Rationality Code of Conduct Reason & Rationality programs are built on mutual respect, curiosity, and a shared commitment to learning. To ensure that everyone feels welcome, safe, and inspired, we expect all students and staff to follow the Reason & Rationality Convivial Conversation Guidelines above and adhere to the Code of Conduct below: Student Behavior Expectations Treat all students, instructors and staff with respect and kindness at all times. No bullying, teasing, or discrimination of any kind. Adhere to the Reason & Rationality Convivial Conversation Guidelines at all times. Be engaged and participate actively for your benefit and for the benefit of others. Attend all scheduled classes, extracurricular activities and meals. Show up on time, complete tasks, and follow directions from staff. No phones or other electronic devices permitted during classes, extracurricular activities or meals (staff members permitted to have phones for administrative support coordination only). No leaving campus unless as part of Reason & Rationality led group activity or with approval from a staff member. No leaving the dorm between 10 PM till 8 AM unless with a Reason & Rationality staff member Be safe. Follow all safety guidelines and avoid risky behavior that could harm yourself or others. Wear Reason & Rationality name badge lanyard at all times. Take responsibility for your own keycard and dorm room key. $50 charge per lost keycard or dorm room key. Non-Academic questions and support requirements to be initially directed by students to the Group Leader in their assigned group. Prohibited Behaviors Th e following are strictly prohibited: Possession or use of alcohol, drugs, tobacco, or vaping devices Possession of weapons or any dangerous objects Use of inappropriate language, gestures, or behavior (including bullying, slurs, hate speech, or sexual content) Stealing, vandalism, or damaging property Leaving designated areas or group activities without permission Violation of any of these may result in immediate dismissal from the program at the family’s expense and without refund. Safety and Supervision Supervision You’ll be supervised by trained staff during all classes, activities and meals with nearby oversight during free time periods and in the dorms. Always stay in designated areas (classrooms, dorms, activity zones) unless given permission by a Reason & Rationality staff member to leave. Adhere with class and activity attendance check-in and evening dorm check-in procedures. Always inform a staff member before leaving a group space, and check back in when you return. Emergency Procedures Follow staff instructions during any emergency, such as fire drills or medical situations. Know where emergency exits and meeting points are (we’ll go over this on Day One Report any injuries, illnesses, or unsafe situations to staff right away. Health and Wellness Stay hydrated and eat the meals provided. Let staff know about allergies or dietary needs. Partake in the daily physical activities. Get enough rest, and take care of yourself! Personal Belongings Label and secure your items. Avoid bringing valuables like expensive electronics or jewelry. Reason & Rationality is not responsible for lost or stolen belongings. Disciplinary Process We want everyone to thrive here. If a rule is broken, we follow a fair and transparent process: Verbal Warning for Minor Infractions A staff member will talk with you about the incident and remind you of the rules and behavior expectations. Written Warning for Repeat Minor or a Major Infraction For repeated minor infractions or a more serious infraction, you’ll receive a written warning and parents/guardians may be notified. You may lose privileges like class or extracurricular activities or permission to go off campus. Parent/Guardian Meeting If problems continue or the behavior is serious (e.g., bullying, unsafe conduct), we’ll arrange a meeting with your parents/guardians. You may be asked to sign a behavior contract. Dismissal from Program If behavior doesn’t improve or is determined to be severe by Reason & Rationality staff (e.g., violence, possession of drugs/weapons, repeated bullying), you may be sent home early at your family’s expense. No refunds will be given in these cases. Reporting Issues If you experience or witness something that concerns you, tell a staff member or Group Leader right away. This includes: Bullying or harassment Unsafe or illegal behavior Medical or emotional concerns All staff are trained in student safety and mandated reporting responsibilities. Culture and Social Norms Reason & Rationality is a space for reflection, exploration, and connection. We expect all students to help create a respectful, inclusive, and enriching environment. Our Shared Values Curiosity: Ask questions, think deeply, and be open to other perspectives. Teamwork: Listen, contribute, and collaborate in a convivial manner. Inclusivity: Welcome people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Respect for Difference: Embrace the diversity of views, values and personalities. Digital Etiquette Only use phones/devices during approved personal time (not in class, meals, or group activities). Never take photos/videos of others without their clear permission. Use social media kindly: no drama, no negativity, and no posting about others without consent. Out of respect for privacy, please don’t post anything on another student’s social media—even positive comments—while the program is in session. Fun Traditions Talent Show - Evening of fun with students, instructors and staff sharing their talents on stage from singing, acting, dance, sports, comedy, magic, etc. Water Balloon Fight Ice Cream Crawl - go see and taste the best ice creams in the college town area nearby Closing Ceremony - chance to share with parents the incredible learning, growth and fun experiences over the Program. Packing List Clothing 6–7 casual outfits (shorts/jeans + t-shirts/tops) 1–2 nicer business casual outfits (e.g., sundress, collared shirt, chinos) for guest lectures or group photos 1-2 sets of athletic wear and shoes for outdoor activities 1 light jacket or hoodie (AC indoors and cooler evenings) 1–2 sweaters or long sleeves (layers are key) Pajamas/sleepwear Undergarments and socks (7+ pairs) Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers Sandals or flip-flops (for dorm shower use) Rain jacket or umbrella Swimsuit Optional: sports coat, tie and dress shoes or nice dress and dress shoes Toiletries Toothbrush and toothpaste Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash Deodorant Hairbrush or comb Razor/shaving supplies (if applicable) Sunscreen Any necessary feminine hygiene products Medications (with instructions, in original packaging) Academic Supplies: Notebook or journal Pens Printed or digital copies of assigned readings (if applicable) Laptop/tablet (with charger) (not permitted in class but can be used in dorms for reading) Backpack or tote bag Electronics: Phone and charger Laptop and charger Headphones (noise-canceling if preferred) Reusable water bottle ID card and a small amount of cash or debit card Optional: book or card games for free time __________________________________ Final Notes This handbook is your guide to a safe, fun, and unforgettable one-week or two-week experience. If you have questions or need support at any time, please reach out to a staff member—we are here for you. Contact Information President & Dean of Academics: Peter Bach-y-Rita: info@reasonandrationality.com ; mobile 415-948-9625 Emergency Contact (24/7): 415-948-9625 Student Services Manager: Brooke Estes: info@reasonandrationality.com ; mobile 415-876-1349 If you or your parents/guardians have questions or concerns about these guidelines, please contact Reason & Rationality at info@reasonandrationality.com before the Program begins.

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What is a Pre-College Program for high school students? A pre-college program is an intensive, short-term academic experience designed for high school students to explore university-level subjects, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare for college rigor. Programs like Reason & Rationality focus on philosophy, politics, and economics (PPE), combining classroom learning with discussion-based workshops led by faculty from top universities. Why it Matters: Pre-college programs help students experience college-level academics before enrolling. Students learn frameworks for analyzing complex societal questions. Exposure to a cohort of like-minded peers builds collaboration and debate skills. Reason & Rationality Learn More Foundation & Advanced Programs at Princeton Session 1: June 7 - June 19, 2026 Session 2: June 21 - July 2, 2026 How Can Pre-College Programs Enhance My College Application? Pre-college programs demonstrate intellectual initiative, curiosity, and engagement—qualities that top colleges seek. Completing a program like Reason & Rationality signals that a student is serious about independent learning, capable of deep thought, and prepared for rigorous academics. Why it Matters: Shows colleges that students pursue challenging educational experiences outside of school. Builds concrete skills in research, discussion, and critical analysis. Provides letters of recommendation from Ivy League faculty and alumni instructors. Are pre-college programs worth the investment? Yes. Pre-college programs like Reason & Rationality offer measurable academic growth, networking opportunities, and preparation for higher education. The investment yields long-term returns in skills, confidence, and college readiness. Students gain advanced understanding of philosophical, ethical, and economic frameworks. Encourages thoughtful debate and problem-solving in a structured, supportive environment. Creates connections with faculty and peers that extend beyond the program. Meet Our Esteemed Faculty Peter Bach-y-Rita DEAN OF ACADEMICS Peter Bach-y-Rita: Ph.D., MIT (Philosophy), J.D. Stanford Law School, A.B. Princeton University (highest honors). Dr. Bach-y-Rita's dissertation at MIT was at the intersection of ethics, biology and technology. He has published work on intellectual property, bankruptcy law, and the nature of legal causation. He co-founded Reason & Rationality in 2023. Joe earned a BA in Philosophy with highest distinction from Purdue University and is currently a Philosophy PhD student at Princeton University. He has published 16 articles on topics in metaphysics, philosophy of religion, and ethics in leading peer-reviewed philosophy journals. He also authored the books Existential Inertia and Classical Theistic Proofs (with Dr. Daniel Linford) and The Majesty of Reason: A Short Guide to Critical Thinking in Philosophy. On the popular level, he creates lecture videos and hosts discussions with philosophers on his YouTube channel Majesty of Reason. His videos have attracted nearly 1.5 million views in total. Joseph Schmid SENIOR TEACHING FELLOW HEAD OF INSTRUCTION James' research on the famous Trolley Problem Immediate Impact James B Estes attended the original Reason & Rationality discussion series in 2023 as a participant and TA, later joining the team to co-found the Reason & Rationality Summer Program. Inspired by the class session on the Trolley Problem, James conducted empirical research into survey respondents’ intuitions about an important Trolley Problem variant. He then authored and published a peer reviewed article entitled Empirical Evidence Reveals the Motivation of Subjects Who Switch Tracks in the Trolley Loop Case. Apply Now!

Privacy Policy This privacy policy has been compiled to better serve those who are concerned with how their 'Personally Identifiable Information' (PII) is being used online. PII, as described in US privacy law and information security, is information that can be used on its own or with other information to identify, contact, or locate a single person, or to identify an individual in context. Please read our privacy policy carefully to get a clear understanding of how we collect, use, protect or otherwise handle your PII in accordance with our website. What Personal Information Do We Collect From The People That Visit Our Website? When ordering or registering on our site, as appropriate, you may be asked to enter your name, email address, phone number or other details to help you with your experience. When Do We Collect Information? We collect information from you when you register on our site, subscribe to a newsletter, fill out a form or enter information on our site. 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After attending Reason & Rationality, parents often notice their teens contributing more thoughtfully in conversations, standing out in classroom discussions, and handling challenging questions with poise. Reason & Rationality The Parent's Perspective 2026 Foundation Program Classsrooms and Dorms 2026 Foundation Program Schedule Apply Now! As a parent, seeing your child grow in confidence, critical thinking, and intellectual curiosity is incredibly rewarding. After attending Reason & Rationality, parents often notice their teens contributing more thoughtfully in conversations, standing out in classroom discussions, and handling challenging questions with poise.

Talent Release Form I hereby authorize the Producer to record and edit into the Project and related materials my name, likeness, image, voice, and participation in and performance on videotape, audiotape, film, photograph, or any other physical or digital medium for use in the above Project or parts thereof. I agree that the Project may be edited and otherwise altered at the sole discretion of the Producer and used in whole or in part for any and all broadcasting, non-broadcasting, audio/visual, or exhibition purposes in any manner or media, in perpetuity, throughout the world. I hereby certify that I am over 18 years of age and am competent to contract in my own name insofar as the above is concerned, or that I am the parent or legal guardian authorized to sign on behalf of a person under the age of 18. I have read the foregoing release before affixing my signature below and warrant that I fully understand the contents thereof. I understand that this release is perpetual, that I may not revoke it, and that it is binding on me and my heirs and assigns. Talent Name Phone Number Email Select an Address Producer Name Production Company Name Phone Number Email Address Address Project Name Recording Location Recording Date Talent Signature Clear Select a date Print Name Parent/Guardian Signature Clear Select a date * required Print Name Send Thanks for submitting!

We are pleased to introduce the Reason & Rationality 2025 Convivium summer program at Princeton Theological Seminary (June 8-14) and Swarthmore College (July 27 - Aug 2). Reason & Rationality 2025 Summer Program Book a Call 2025 Faculty Classrooms and Dorms Sample Weekly Schedule The program's core philosophy emphasizes that relationship and conversation are fundamental to intellectual growth, encouraging students to delve into complex ideas and develop critical thinking skills. By offering sessions at both Princeton & Swarthmore, students can experience diverse academic atmospheres. This is a valuable opportunity for students seeking to expand their intellectual horizons and prepare for future academic endeavors. We encourage you to share this program with students who demonstrate a strong interest in the humanities and social sciences. The Reason & Rationality 2025 Summer Program, held at Princeton Theological Seminary (June 8-14) and Swarthmore College (July 27 - Aug 2), offers an exceptional opportunity for intellectually curious high school students in grades 9-12. This week-long program provides an immersive experience in Philosophy, Policy, and Economics through informal and engaging salons with a 5:1 student-instructor ratio, facilitated by graduate and undergraduate students from renowned universities like Princeton, Oxford, Michigan, and Purdue. See The Reason & Rationality Difference Download our guide to "Cultivating Authentic Curiosity in Over-Scheduled High School Students" First name Email* Download 2025 Summer Program Overview Session 1 (Princeton Theological Seminary June 8 - 14, 2025) The Value of a Human Life (cost benefit analysis, present value discounting, the significance of future generations) Utilitarianism and The Veil of Ignorance Basic Logic, Intellectual Virtues, Properties of Arguments Moral Realism and Moral Relativism The Trolley Problem Supply and Demand COVID Lockdowns and Ice Cream Cones (total and marginal utility, opportunity cost) Private Property and Prices Complex Systems, Emergent Properties, and the Mystery of Consciousness Norms Unlike our Own (primogeniture, bride price, dowries, indissoluble marriage, cousin marriage) Session 2 (Swarthmore College July 27 - August 2, 2025) 11. Base Rates and the Base Rate Fallacy 12. Selection Bias, Social Desirability Bias 13. Preference Falsification and Self-Deception 14. Harry Frankfurt on Bullshit 15. Bayes’s Rule 16. Do You Live in a Simulation? 17. Rationality, Rationalism and Pascal’s Wager 18. The Conceptual Analysis of “Liberal” and “Conservative” 19. Science Fiction and Philosophy: Life Extension and Universal Basic Income 20. The Ethics of Selling Human Organs and Babies Questions About the Reason & Rationality Vision for Conversation-Based Education? Check out the frequently asked questions on our website or book a call to learn more. Book a Call James' research on the famous Trolley Problem Immediate Impact James B Estes attended the original Reason & Rationality discussion series in 2023 as a participant and TA, later joining the team to co-found the Reason & Rationality Summer Program. Inspired by the class session on the Trolley Problem, James conducted empirical research into survey respondents’ intuitions about an important Trolley Problem variant. He then authored and published a peer reviewed article entitled Empirical Evidence Reveals the Motivation of Subjects Who Switch Tracks in the Trolley Loop Case. Apply Now!

Our instructors hail from world-renowned institutions like Princeton, Oxford, and MIT, bringing unmatched expertise and passion to every session. Reason & Rationality Videos Instructors Debate Whether We Have Souls In this live debate, universe-renowned eminent philosophers debate whether we have souls. Who wins: dualism or physicalism? (1:09:54) Most Epic Instructor Debate of All Time Watch our instructors debate: Does God exist? (1:17:11) How To Publish Academic YouTube Videos Head of Instruction Joe Schmid, Princeton University PhD student, talks about how he publishes academic YouTube videos for his 32,000 subscribers. (36:03) What Reason & Rationality is All About Noah McKay explains what Reason & Rationality is all about. (0:54) Sophia Wyatt on Forgiveness Hear what Reason & Rationality Teaching Fellow Sophia Wyatt has to say on the concept of forgiveness. (1:02) Civil Discourse Dean of Academics, Peter Bach-y-Rita, explains why philosophical rigor is the key to civil discourse. (1:27) Student Project Ep. 1 Student Claire Ziebart produced her own podcast after attendiong RNR. Here she leads a discussion about what we value the most: Would you give up your life for a perfect but fake one? (23:45) Student Project Ep. 2 Student Claire Ziebart produced her own podcast after attendiong RNR. Here Claire leads a discussion about whether some kinds of happiness can only be experienced if you have suffered. (22:54) Questions About Reason & Rationality's Vision for Conversation-Based Education? Check out the frequently asked questions on our website or reach out to Reason & Rationality at info@reasonandrationality.com . Ready to jump into critical thinking and conversation? Apply Now

Terms and Conditions The Reason & Rationality Summer Program is independent of the college and university campuses on which summer sessions are based. All names are trademarks of their respective owners. Reason & Rationality is a trademark of Reason & Rationality LLC. This program does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national or ethnic origin, or disability. Admission to the program is limited and shall be granted or denied at the sole discretion of the program administrators.

We are pleased to introduce the Reason & Rationality 2026 Convivium summer program at Princeton Theological Seminary (June 7-19) and (June 21 - July 2). Reason & Rationality 2025 Student Essay Opportunity [Scroll down for published student essays] We are pleased to announce the Reason & Rationality 2025 Essay Opportunity. Students who want to keep thinking and exploring are invited to submit their short, original work (no AI assistance) for possible publication on the Reason & Rationality website. Here are the rules: Students who attended Reason & Rationality 2025 are invited to submit one philosophical essay of no more than 2,000 words (but note that shorter is better here), based on any one of the following prompts: What, if anything, do we owe to future generations? What is the difference between bullshit and lying? If you were forced to choose, would you save the life of one 13 year-old human or 10^10 mice? Is it morally permissible for a blogger to befriend a corporate executive with the intention of learning and publicly exposing the corporation's financial malfeasance (e.g., illegal tax evasion)? Topic of your choice -- Note: requires advance approval of the topic by Reason & Rationality prior to August 18, 2025. Instead of, or in addition to, a philosophical essay, students may submit a philosophical creative writing piece of no more than 3,500 words (this is an upper limit, submissions can be much shorter), that explores an ethical dilemma. Additional criteria for publication. Works must be philosophical in nature, original works by the author, and consistent with Reason & Rationality's values of intellectual virtue. Deadlines: Submit intention to participate by August 22, 2025, by emailing info@reasonandrationality.com . Final submission deadline is September 12. Submit final draft to info@reasonandrationality.com Decisions on publication will be made by October 18. A portion of the essays will be selected for publication on the Reason & Rationality website. No assistance or feedback will be provided with the writing process by Reason & Rationality Instructors. Published Student Essays What We Owe Future Generations , by Grace Glukhov The Cube Factory Paradox , by Michael Reiff Human and Animal Value , by Harry Moss Wisdom of the Seraph , by Harry Moss (a short story) Questions About the Reason & Rationality Vision for Conversation-Based Education? Check out the frequently asked questions on our website or reach out to Reason & Rationality at info@reasonandrationality.com .

Reason & Rationality Teacher Recommendation Form Reason & Rationality equips high school students with the tools to think rigorously about complex questions, separate fact from ideology, and engage in lively intellectual discussion. Our classes are filled with humor, and rooted in relatable discussions. Students sharpen their critical thinking and communication skills and leave with a grasp of the intellectual frameworks that empower them to become confident independent thinkers. At Reason & Rationality, we welcome honest, intellectually rigorous conversations on topics that are often avoided in traditional high school settings, including politics, religion, ethics, personal values, and more. These discussions can be deeply rewarding but also require maturity, self-awareness, and respect. Everyone involved, students and instructors, shares responsibility for creating an open, thoughtful, and inclusive environment. We are committed to fostering dialogue, not debate. The goal is to understand and explore different perspectives, not to win arguments or persuade others of a particular ideology. Our aim is to create not only a “safe space,” but a brave space. where intellectual courage and emotional maturity go hand in hand. The 2-week Foundation Program focuses on 20 Big Ideas in Philosophy, Economics and Ethics. Classes are rigorous, fast-paced and full of humor. Reason & Rationality classes and small group convivial conversations are led by PhD candidates and young professors from top universities including Princeton, Harvard, Oxford, MIT and others. Teacher Recommendations are helpful in determining whether the applicant is well suited to engage in deep intellectual conversation in a convivial manner. Please complete this Teacher Recommendation form below. Hitting "send" automatically emails your recommendation to Reason & Rationality Dean of Academics, Peter Bach-y-Rita. You may also copy the content of this form into an email and send it to Dr. Bach-y-Rita at info@reasonandrationality.com . Either way, your recommendation will remain confidential and will not be shared with the student. Teacher Recommendation Student Name Student Last Name Student's School Name Student Grade Level Classes Taken With The Recommender: Teacher First Name Teacher Last Name Email Subjects Taught In what ways has the student shown a genuine interest in exploring big complex questions and ideas? In what ways has the student demonstrated the ability to engage in dialogue in a civil, open, and inclusive manner? Send Thanks for submitting!

Reason & Rationality offers educational programs for high school students. Dedicated to empowering high school students to think rigorously & critically. Princeton Session 2025 kicks off! Reason & Rationality 2025 SUMMER PROGRAM AT PRINCETON & SWARTHMORE Reason & Rationality begins with a question: What are the foundational ideas that shape policies, drive decision-making, and unlock a deeper understanding of the world—yet are rarely introduced to high school students? Seeking the answer led us to 20 Big Ideas from Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE), a framework that provides the conceptual scaffolding for understanding the forces that shape our society and the critical thinking tools to navigate them. Reason & Rationality equips high school students with the tools to think rigorously about complex questions, separate fact from ideology, and engage in lively intellectual exchange. Our classes are filled with humor, and rooted in relatable discussions. Students sharpen their critical thinking and communication skills and leave with a grasp of the intellectual frameworks that empower them to become confident independent thinkers. Reason & Rationality’s 5:1 student-teacher ratio ensures an intimate, engaging learning environment. Our instructors are not only accomplished academics from Harvard, Princeton, Oxford, and other great universities, but also charismatic young voices actively publishing and leading debate and dialogue on online media. They don’t just teach PPE; they embody how young people can develop and share their ideas with the world. Five hours of interactive discussions and problem solving per day plus discussions over meals and dorm activities give each student lots of opportunities to practice and reinforce their newly acquired skills and knowledge. Learn More Apply Now About Reason & Rationality Meet the Team Peter Bach-y-Rita Dean of Academics Peter Bach-y-Rita: Ph.D., MIT (Philosophy), J.D. Stanford Law School, A.B. Princeton University (highest honors). Dr. Bach-y-Rita's dissertation at MIT was at the intersection of ethics, biology and technology. He has published work on intellectual property, bankruptcy law, and the nature of legal causation. He co- founded Reason & Rationality in 2023. Head of Instruction Joe is a Philosophy PhD student at Princeton University. He has published 16 articles on topics in metaphysics, philosophy of religion, and ethics in leading peer-reviewed philosophy journals. On the popular level, he creates lecture videos and hosts discussions with philosophers on his YouTube channel Majesty of Reason. His videos have attracted nearly 1.5 million views in total. Joseph Schmid CMO & Instructor James ("JB") Estes is a Harvard University student. He is the co-author, with Mitch Presnick, of "4 Key Strengths of China’s Economy — and What They Mean for Multinational Companies" (2024 Harvard Business Review ) James Estes 2025 Guest Expert Lecturers Benjamin Morison DEPARTMENT CHAIR OF PHILOSOPHY, PRINCETON UNIVERSITY BPhil in Philosophy, Balliol College, Oxford (British Academy Major Award) Peter Baumann DEPARTMENT CHAIR OF PHILOSOPHY, SWARTHMORE COLLEGE Ph.D., University of Göttingen Christy Wampole PROFESSOR OF FRENCH, PRINCETON UNIVERSITY Ph.D. Stanford University CIVIL DISCOURSE Schools today are facing a crisis in the breakdown of civil discourse. The solution lies less in enforcing politeness and “ground rules” than in cultivating the intellectual foundations of a reflective and philosophical worldview. The Reason & Rationality curriculum fosters civil discourse through the habits of thought that lead to deeper understanding, humility, and respect for opposing views.