America at 250: Stoic Virtue and the Future of the American Experiment

On October 24, 2026, the Philadelphia Stoa will host an in-person public conference bringing together leading historians, philosophers, legal scholars, and civic leaders to explore virtue, citizenship, and self-government in the American experiment. Drawing on Stoic philosophy, the U.S. Constitution, and the ideas that shaped the nation’s founding, speakers will explore how reason, character, self-command, and responsibility can help sustain democracy in an age of technological disruption, institutional distrust, and civic fragmentation. A healthy society depends not only on good laws and institutions, but also on the character and judgment of its citizens. Together, we will consider what self-government requires of each of us and how we can strengthen the virtues, institutions, and communities that make it possible. The conference is intended to spur future discussion, research, and collaboration around these questions well beyond the event itself. Featured Speakers Dr. Sophia Rosenfeld, Walter H. Annenberg Professor of History, University of Pennsylvania Dr. Gregory Sadler, President of ReasonIO and Philosophy Faculty, Marquette University Kermit Roosevelt III, J.D., David Berger Professor for the Administration of Justice, University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School Ward Farnsworth, J.D., W. Page Keeton Chair in Law and Former Dean, University of Texas School of Law Delegate Cliff Hayes, Virginia General Assembly, Chair of key committees on Technology Policy and Government Operations Dr. Massimo Pigliucci, K.D. Irani Professor of Philosophy, The City College of New York Event Details Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026 Time: 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM EDT Location: Historical Society of Pennsylvania, 1300 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Format: In-person conference Advance registration is required. Please visit the conference page for additional details and to register: https://luma.com/9ghyl138