Annual event set for June 14 in New York Mills

Four thinkers have been selected to travel to the small town of New York Mills, this June to debate the 2025 question posed by the annual Great American Think-Off: “Is there only one truth, or are there many truths?”

In an age shaped by misinformation, social media echo chambers, and competing narratives, the concept of “truth” has never been more relevant—or more debated. 

“When the Think-Off committee selected this year’s question, we knew it was a deeply philosophical and challenging one. We weren’t sure what kind of response we’d receive, but we were thrilled to see thoughtful essays arrive from across the country—and even the world,” said Betsy Roder, Executive Director of the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center.

The Think-Off provides a platform for everyday people to weigh in on profound issues and engage in meaningful civil discourse. This year’s finalists are:

Arguing that there is only one truth:

• Pavithra Krishnan, a college student from Troy, Mich.

• David Eckel, a retiree from Clayton, N.C.

Arguing that there are many truths:

• David Lose, a pastor from Eden Prairie, Minn.

• Jay Sieling, a retired educator from Miltona, Minn.

During the live debate, each finalist will present and defend their essay, with the audience voting after each of the three rounds. One finalist will ultimately be named America’s Greatest Thinker for 2025.

Each finalist receives a $500 cash prize, lodging at a local bed and breakfast, travel reimbursement to New York Mills, and the chance to win a gold, silver, or bronze medal featuring Rodin’s Thinker sitting atop a tractor. 

The Think-Off draws a diverse and enthusiastic crowd, many of whom turn the experience into a weekend getaway in scenic Minnesota lakes country. 

Event details

Philosophers and Artists Reception: Friday, June 13, 6–8 p.m. at  New York Mills Regional Cultural Center. Free and open to the public. Refreshments and cash bar available. Preceded by a Historical Walking Tour at 5 p.m.

Live Debate: Saturday, June 14, 7 p.m. at New York Mills School Auditorium. Tickets: $15 in advance / $20 at the door / $5 for students. Tickets available online: 2025 Think-Off Tickets. A reception honoring the finalists will be held at the Cultural Center immediately following the debate. All are welcome to attend.

Meet the finalists

David Eckel is a retired small business problem-solver from North Carolina and a longtime Think-Off participant. He previously appeared in 2010, 2013, and 2015, and was named America’s Greatest Thinker in 2010 after arguing that the wealthy do not have an obligation to help the poor.

Pavithra Manu Krishnan is a junior at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. Outside of academics, she enjoys cinematography, writing poetry, and exploring storytelling through art and film.

David Lose is the senior pastor at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, Minn. He’s also a husband, father of two adult children (and two adolescent golden retrievers), an avid card player, and a passionate fan of the Minnesota Vikings.

Jay Sieling is a retired liberal arts instructor from Alexandria Technical and Community College. He’s also been an at-home parent, small business owner, children’s TV producer, radio announcer, magician, and musician—and is now proudly “just” a grandfather.

About the Great 

American Think-Off

Now in its 32nd year, the Great American Think-Off is a one-of-a-kind philosophy contest where ordinary people tackle extraordinary questions. Created to make philosophy accessible to all, the Think-Off invites thoughtful debate in a respectful, engaging format. It has been featured by C-SPAN, the New York Times, The Today Show, and other national media.

The event is sponsored by the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center, a rural hub for creativity, community vitality, and lifelong learning in the arts. Since 1990, the Center has connected people with artists and rich cultural experiences in rural Minnesota—celebrating the local and providing a window to the world.

Explore the history of the Think-Off, past questions, and past winners at: www.think-off.org