MARL Conversation Series: the Ethics Bowl is Focused on Engaging Dialogues.

MARL recently hosted and organized one of its most important annual events, the Ethics Bowl. On February 20-21, 2025, the regional contest took place at University of Manitoba. Although there is a winner, the focus is not centred on defeating other teams but on understanding different points of view. This is the summarized second part of the conversation MARL had with one of the event’s pioneer, Emily Muller.  

Unlike traditional debates, success in the Ethics Bowl comes from thoughtful research, deep listening, and productive conversation rather than rigidly defending a position. Students are rewarded for adaptability, demonstrating that revising an opinion based on new insights is a strength instead of a weakness. The ability to engage in ethical discussions is a crucial life skill, benefiting students in careers ranging from law to business by enhancing critical thinking, empathy, and communication. Ethics and philosophy discussions help develop soft skills, essential for leadership, conflict resolution, and cooperation in any professional setting.

Some years ago, a team initially felt intimidated but later realized that the Ethics Bowl is more about conversation than simply winning. Participants often develop curiosity, practice structured discussion, and appreciate diverse perspectives. The role linked to this event also challenges social media’s influence by encouraging real-time, and thoughtful in-person dialogue. A conversation is like swimming, something people might not realize they enjoy until they experience it. Therefore, practice is utterly important. In addition, writing cases for next events, including expanding French-language contributions, is something organizers really value. It is an activity with the potential for organizing more university-level and even international Ethics Bowl initiative.

Students are rewarded for adaptability, demonstrating that revising an opinion based on new insights is a strength instead of a weakness.

This event provides a space for intellectually curious students, offering a platform similar to what sports or music do for others. The emphasis is on conversation rather than debate, with a goal of fostering relationships and seeking a deeper understanding of cases. For example, a student reflecting on a case about robot caregivers led to an interesting discussion on grandparents, demonstrating how Ethics Bowl connects personal experiences with ethical issues.

The Ethics Bowl proves that collaboration and open-mindedness lead to deeper understanding of real situations considering all different perspectives involved.

Ultimately, the Ethics Bowl is an accessible and impactful practice that cultivates civic engagement and thoughtful dialogue, with potential for continued growth both nationally and internationally. In a world that often values competition and political polarization over conversation and mutual respect, the Ethics Bowl proves that collaboration and open-mindedness lead to deeper understanding of real situations considering all different perspectives involved.

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Nicolas Dousdebes – MARL Communication Coordinator