What we’re about
We study any philosophic idea or text.
Greetings, Eudaimonians:
This is to announce the temporary suspension of Sophos Meetup events until further notice.
While Rabbi Finley and I have enjoyed very much our sessions together, We want to wait until we can meet together in person so as to encourage a more seminar approach to our discussions. As Rabbi Finley is occupied with his rabbinical AND book writing duties, we will reconvene Sophos next year, in-person after the rabbi's anticipated book tour.
But you need not despair over the loss of philosophical discussion as in addition to being our Sophos co-organizer, I also host the History of Ideas Symposium, (HOIS) a philosophy book group, and I can recommend other such groups (online out of Toronto, Chicago, Portland, Orange County, etc) you might want to explore during Sophos' hiatus. Email me from the HOIS or Sophos sites.
Further word on Sophos' fate will be forthcoming from Rabbi Finley but I wanted to get the alert out to our 500+ membership as you might be wondering when we'll meet again.
All my best to you until we gather together to discuss the biggest questions...
-David Johnson [April 2022]
General Description...
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are now on Zoom every session whether we also are meeting in-person or not [i.e.: hybrid]. No formal philosophical background is necessary.
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 or idea. You are welcome to attend even you have not studied the text or don't have much background.
2. We don't spend much time doubting the axioms of a given philosopher or thinker. We want to understand a teaching, not undermine it.
3. Our beginning point is that these texts and ideas 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 and ideas!
