Liberty and Man
            Central to the Philomathesian Society’s stance on racism was their overall view of mankind. There were nine pertinent debates over a twenty-five year period on topics such as why some races have darker skin to the status of Native Americans. These controversial subjects revealed the society’s true views on race, as they resolved that skin tones were due to climate differences more than any other factor. This finding suggests the Philomathesians did not view blacks, natives, or any other race as inferior; an exceedingly tolerant view for the early nineteenth century. The debate of man’s dignity even led the society to rule against America. This prospect, though reversed, seven years later, reflects the high degree of tolerance that existed among the Philomathesians when compared with America as a whole. 

1. April 3, 1805
“Is there any natural difference in men?”
The question was Dismissed.
2. April 14, 1819
“Can the conduct of the United States towards the Native Indians be justified?”
Decided in the Negative.
3. October 23, 1822
“Is the colour or complexion of the human species owing to the climate?”
Decided in the Affirmative.
4. October 1, 1823
“Do Savages enjoy as much happiness as civilized people?”
Decided in the Negative.[commentary]
5. October 8, 1823
“Has climate a greater effect in forming the character and manners of men than education?”
Decided in the Negative.
6. October 6, 1824
“Do the civilized inhabitants of America possess more courage and fortitude than the non-civilized?”
Decided in the Negative.[commentary]
7. September 20, 1826
“Can the conduct of the United States towards the Native Indians be justified?”
Decided in the Affirmative.
8. March 25, 1829
“Is the variety in the human species occasioned rather by climate and modes of living?”
Decided in the Negative.