Edward Lamb (UK)

Now reading the BPhil in Philosophy, I was introduced to the discipline through my undergraduate degree in Classics at St. Anne’s College Oxford, an experience which still informs and inspires my approach to the subject. Reading the works of Greco-Roman philosophers, I enjoyed their lively, dialogic style and was struck above all by their conviction in the ability of philosophy to hold practical relevance and help us live happier lives. 

The interdisciplinary nature of a Classics degree allowed me to immerse myself into the contexts in which such works were composed, and studying at the British School at Rome in 2021 was a particularly formative experience. I found that ancient texts are fascinating objects of study in their own right but also serve as compelling vehicles for reflection on our current and changing world, central to the humanistic philosophy of writers I admire like Martha Nussbaum and Bernard Williams.

 
This led me to write my undergraduate thesis on Plato’s Crito, arguing that it presents us with a nuanced form of civil disobedience which is found in the passive resistance of many modern social equality movements. I was then fortunate to study an MPhil in Ancient Philosophy as a Cambridge Trust Scholar, writing on epistemic injustice in Plato’s Republic, cross-cultural depictions of old age, and finally a thesis on moral progress and personal identity in Cicero’s De Finibus. I’m really looking forward to integrating a study of ancient philosophy with modern approaches from political philosophy and practical ethics through the BPhil.

Outside of my studies, I get slightly too obsessed with sport but find it extremely motivating and positive for well-being; as an undergrad I was president of the lightweight men’s rowing team and now enjoy triathlon, having recently completed an Ironman. I’m also passionate about access to sport and education - I try to convert some of my academic interests into public-facing work, and also hope to develop my skills in video editing and production as a graduate student.