The collection of the Sphex Club, of Lynchburg, Virginia, includes minutes of meetings, the constitution and bylaws of the Club, a roster of its members, and a listing of Sphex papers presented by members and guests of the Club. In addition to this guide, the collection is outlined in more detail in “Sphex in the Jones Memorial Library,” Chapter VI of the Club history, The Sphex Club of Lynchburg, Virginia: The First One Hundred Years, 1910-2010, by James M. Elson.
Access Rights
Lectures delivered by members appear as papers in the Item Set. Papers are available in print at the library. Select papers have been digitized (including all papers delivered to the Club prior to 1952).
Authors retain copyright to their work. Papers may not be reproduced or reprinted without permission of the author and the library.
The paper, "You Got No Soul," by William T. Johnson, delves into the debate of whether a corporation should merely aim for profitability or also possess a 'soul', reflecting a commitment to ethics, community, and internal values. Johnson interviews several CEOs and reports on their answers to his questions as he explores the primary purpose of corporations through various lenses, including business ethics, the impact of leadership, and the balance between shareholder interests and wider societal responsibilities. He concludes that while profitability is crucial, the longevity and success of a company also depend on its ethical foundation and the authenticity of its corporate values.
Eric (Rick) Sorenson, Jr. discusses the human quest for an extended life or immortality. After reviewing articles on extending human life, Sorenson focuses on transhumanism and its emphasis on non-biological evolution and the merger of man and machine. Sorenson explores genetic engineering; nanotechnology; cellular repair; robotics; timing; and a new body-hardware Take II. Critics focus on both the feasibility and their moral objections to transhumanism. Sorenson concludes by sharing his own views on transhumanism.
Text of a lecture to the Sphex Club in Lynchburg. Dr. Ken West's paper explores the significance of early recollections in understanding individual behavior and cognitive psychology, focusing on Alfred Adler's theories. It discusses the therapeutic value of early memories, the process of identifying true early recollections, and how these memories influence life decisions. The paper includes historical context on Adler's work, comparisons with Freud and Jung, and practical applications in therapy.
The paper explores the architectural and cultural significance of Mont Saint-Michel and Chartres Cathedral, emphasizing their historical context and artistic importance. It describes the construction, design, and symbolic meanings of these medieval structures, highlighting their roles in the integration of church and state. The work also reflects on the broader impact of medieval architecture on contemporary understanding and appreciation of art, faith, and human creativity.
Vannevar Bush's 1968 speech addressed concerns about youth's rebellion against societal norms and governance. It highlighted the intelligence and awareness of young people, their dissatisfaction with political and social issues, and their inclination to enact change. The speaker emphasized the need to encourage youth participation in public affairs and politics, acknowledging their potential to lead the country effectively and urging the older generation to support and guide them.
