Competitions

The Minds Underground™ Philosophy Essay Competition is aimed at students in Year 12 (though younger applicants are welcome). The competition provides students with an opportunity to engage in university-level research, hone their writing & argumentative skills and prepare for university interviews. Entrants must choose 1 question to answer.

The 2025 Minds Underground Essay Competition results are now live — view the full results on our Results Page. 2026 questions will be released in November 2025.

1. Does moral responsibility exist in a deterministic universe?

Examine the conflict between determinism, free will, and moral accountability.

2. Should humans attempt to enhance their cognitive abilities through technology?

Hint: Debate transhumanism, cognitive enhancement, and the ethical implications of human augmentation.

3. What is the value of a life without suffering?

Discuss the role of suffering in personal growth, meaning, and human experience.