This Socrates' Cafe is at Community UU. See schedule below for other dates and locations.
Learning is first, Opinions are second, Teaching is out
Socrates' Cafe is a philosophic discussion group which is free and open to the public, with no registration required. Each group is independent and you may come to as many as you wish.
In San Antonio, there are Socrates' Cafe meetings at various locations on each of the 1st four Wednesday evenings in the month, as well as one group that meets on the first Sunday of the month at Community UU church at 12:15 pm. See list below for details.
The way the group operates is that everyone is encouraged to bring a philosophic question, which they write down on a 3x5 card (provided) so that each may be voted on. There are two rounds of voting, and the top 2 questions from the first round are voted on in the second round. Then, the question with the most votes in the second round becomes the topic for the evening.
The concept of the Socrates' Cafe concept is based on the book Socrates Café by Christopher Phillips. This is the reference and contains the guidelines for holding our philosophic discussions. Reading this is not necessary, but it is in the library. No knowledge of philosophy is necessary, just be inquisitive about learning from each other.
Here are the guidelines for the discussions:
Primary Guideline: Learning is first, Opinions are second, Teaching is out
Listen well without thinking about what you want to say.
Accept graciously all opinions; show a high level of respect.
Crosstalking or one-on-one debate prevents others from participating.
Attempt to let everyone talk who wishes without dominating the conversation (Keep it short).
Leave your expressions open to further questioning as if always examining your own opinion.
Openmindedness is necessary, especially for us amateur philosophers.
Opinions (not agendas to fulfill or proselytizing) are welcome. No preaching or advice.
Telling others what they need, should, or “must do” can be intimidating, so skip it.
Expressing that something is 'for sure' is unacceptable in this context.
Starting with “I think” or “My opinion is” can be most helpful.
Pretty simple, huh? And very interesting. In fact, I am amazed how these groups somehow manage to stay on topic for an hour and a half. Absolutely stunning!
