What we’re about
We are a group of scientific skeptics (as opposed to 'conspiracy skeptics') with a heavy emphasis on critical thinking. If you don't believe in paranormal ability, ouija boards or ghosts then this group is for you.
FOUNDED IN 2008, we have many field trips and casual get-togethers just to socialize with other critical thinkers as well, and of course our great pot-luck summer and winter solstice parties.
Our goal: To support the agnostic/athiest/skeptic/humanist community with local meetings, potluck parties, and other social events. To spread the word that scientific skeptics and non-believers that promote secular values and the separation of church and state. We cherish humanistic values over any supernatural superstitions and encourage others to look at their worldview with critical thinking skills.
I hope you join our group and enjoy the conversations we have!
This meetup is a subgroup of Atheists United
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Building A GodLink visible for attendees
On Saturday, September 20, 2025 the Freethought Society and the Humanist Society of Santa Barbara will cohost presenter Dr. Christopher DiCarlo.
DiCarlo’s 3:00 PM PDT/6:00 PM EDT presentation is entitled “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity.” It will be on Zoom allowing for participation from all over the world. Join us at the following link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88193881833
In this lecture DiCarlo will talk about three things. First, he will review the basics of Artificial Intelligence (AI) so that everyone is roughly on the same page in reference to key terms, concepts, and issues. Second, he will explain some of the promising benefits and potential harms that such new technologies will bring to humanity. And finally, he will talk about what you, member of the public, can do to help mitigate the risks of AI. His recently published book, Building A God, will be discussed during his presentation.
DiCarlo is a philosopher, educator, and author. He is the Principal and Founder of Critical Thinking Solutions, a consulting business for individuals, corporations, and not-for-profits in both the private and public sectors. DiCarlo is also the host for All Thinks Considered, a podcast in which he engages in free and open discussion about current and important issues through the lens of critical thinking.
- The Misinformation Trap and Changing MindsLink visible for attendees
On Sunday, October 12, 2025, at 3:00 PM PDT/6:00 PM EDT, the Humanist Society of Santa Barbara and the Freethought Society will cohost Melanie Trecek-King. Her presentation “The Misinformation Trap and Changing Minds: My Journey from Creationist to Biologist” will be a Zoom allowing for worldwide participation. Join us at the following link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89788090863?pwd=ZmwGUWW46fjHTnOFS8H53BPs06ITj6.1
The presentation will examine why intelligent people fall for science denial, pseudoscience, or conspiracy theories. Trecek-King will explore how cognitive biases, social influ-ences, and deeply-held beliefs can trap us in misinformation. Drawing on her own experience as a former young Earth creationist, she will explain why facts alone often fail to change minds, and how curiosity, skepticism, and empathy can help us navigate today’s complex information landscape and connect with those who disagree with us.
