Why Do We Wander?
J.R.R. Tolkien wrote, “Not all who wander are lost,” if that’s true then why do we wander in the first place? Do we hope for something when we wander? It seems like there’s a difference between wandering and other ways of being out and playing in the world, like vacationing, being a tourist, exploring, or actually being lost, but what is it? Are there moral obligations to consider when we wander? And what role does wandering play in the meaningful living of our lives?
About the speaker:
Seth Tichenor is a philosophy professor gone rogue. 14 years ago he packed up and hit the road to discover whether people wanted more philosophy in their lives. People were starving for thoughtful conversation. But why was it traveling held the promise of what he was already sure was true? Something powerful happens when we leave home.
Check out his TEDex talk on that adventure here.
Seth’s background is in South Asian thought and comparative philosophy. He’s been running a public philosophy nonprofit with his partner Gad in Astoria, OR for 12 years. A home that beckons others to visit. A destination for many who wander.
May 14, 02026
Join Seth at Fort George Brewery in the Lovell Showroom for a philosophical exploration what what we do when we wander.
Doors open at 6p.
Food and Drink available for purchase.
Free and open to all.