In my work as a clergyman, I find myself going back to the great philosophers constantly -- the Greeks -- e.g., Plato, Aristotle, the Romans -- e.g. Cicero, Marcus Aurelius, and any modern thinkers who thought is connected to the ancients. It occurs to me there may be others in the area who would like to read, study and discuss the foundations of the Western mind, and who don't want to drive in to the excellent sounding groups in Santa Monica.

We meet monthly in my living room in Sherman Oaks. No formal background necessary. You don't have to do the readings to attend.

The main thing we ask for is the commitment to discuss in a rational and civil manner. Open to people across the political, philosophic and faith (or lack thereof) spectrum.

It does not matter if you are beginner or advanced student -- our focus is good, critical thinking skills (or the desire to cultivate them) and a commitment to rational, civil conversation. No ranting. If you are a beginner, you will probably want to observe the first few session before you start participating.

Here are some things to keep in mind.

1. We are gathering to study a text. You are welcome to attend even you have not studied the text.

2. We don't spend much time doubting the axioms of a given philosopher. We want to understand a teaching, not undermine it.

3. Our beginning point is that these texts can be read, understood and interpreted. We don't spend time doubting the axioms of textual interpretation.

If all this suits you, welcome to our study of great philosophic texts!