AZ Speaks - “Why Arizona Dark Skies Matter” by Matthew Goodwin

Flagstaff, AZ was the world’s first community designated an International Dark Sky Place for its active efforts to reduce light pollution and protect the visibility of the night sky. Arizona alone has 17 dark-sky places, which is more than any other country in the world. Why is it so important that we protect our nighttime views of the starry sky? Why should we turn out the lights at night and can we learn to enjoy the darkness? This presentation will explore the importance of dark skies from a philosophical perspective. Some philosophers argue that the darkness of night is a gift that helps to restore our moral sense. We will discuss what connections can be found between darkness and the night sky with our sense of morality, our sense of who we are as human beings and our understanding of our place in the universe.

This series is held in City of Surprise Council Chambers – 16000 N. Civic Center Plz.

Events are free, but registration is required at surpriseaz.gov/artssignup

This program is made possible by Arizona Humanities