Ep. 2 - The Theories Behind Connection
Episode description
Today Dr. Illya Davis shares his vision and philosophies on connecting with others. He breaks down relational situations and discusses how to build up another human being through listening and discovering what a person needs. Dr. Davis serves as the Dean of first-year students and Transition Programs and professor of philosophy at Morehouse College. The conversation today is uplifting and thought-provoking. You will want to experience this episode of (Y) Connect.
IN THIS EPISODE:
- [4:29] Dr. Illya Davis explains his role at Morehouse College
- [6:32] Dr. Davis discusses how to create meaningful connections
- [9:09] What prevents people from finding common ground and the essential differences between leaders and facilitators and how the art of listening assists you in putting the needs of others before your own
- [14:00] The “aha” moments of Dr. Davis’ life that produced his philosophies
- [16:40] Dr. Davis reveals his personal story connected to the YMCA
- [21:02] The importance of keeping abreast of the interests of those you want to serve — another way of connecting
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- When your goal is to connect with others, and when you want to maximize the humanity of another individual; you will see the importance of putting their needs ahead of yours.
- The words facilitator and leader are not synonymous. Leaders are managers. If you wish to influence social or political movements you have to be a facilitator.
- It is essential to be honest with yourself. When you are honest with yourself it allows for honesty with others. Connection to other individuals starts with knowing and being honest with who you are.
RESOURCE LINKS:
BIOGRAPHY:
Illya Eliphis Davis serves as the Dean of first-year students and Transition Programs and professor of philosophy at Morehouse College. He is a 1989 philosophy graduate of Morehouse College. He pursued a Masters's degree in Religion and Culture at Harvard University and doctoral studies at The University of Chicago in Philosophy of Religion. He has published on the political thought of former Morehouse College president, Dr. Benjamin E. Mays, African American Religious Experiences, Black fraternities, and sororities, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities. He teaches and researches Africana Philosophy and Race, philosophy of language, and philosophy of religion. He is the proud father of two young ladies, Ilan—a senior at Spelman College, and Anya—a first-year at Spelman College. He is a member of The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated.