Conversations New York

The “God of the Gaps” argument—claiming that God explains what science cannot—has long been criticized for shrinking as human knowledge expands. But what if there’s a more nuanced version of this argument? One not rooted in ignorance, but in the fundamental limits of human understanding itself.

Enter Gödel’s incompleteness theorems, which mathematically prove that within any consistent system of logic, there will always be true statements that cannot be proven within that system. Does this open the door to a rational acknowledgment of mysteries that may remain permanently beyond human explanation—whether those mysteries point to God, the transcendent, or simply the limits of reason?

In this session, we’ll explore:

What Gödel’s theorems actually say—and don’t say—about the limits of human knowledge.

Whether the “God of the Gaps” argument, when reframed as an acknowledgment of intrinsic limits rather than temporary ignorance, holds any philosophical merit.

Alternative secular explanations for the unknown, such as human cognitive limits, multiverse theories, or epistemological humility.

How this question intersects with science, philosophy, and personal belief systems across the spectrum.

This conversation is for skeptics, believers, and anyone intrigued by the boundaries of what we can know. It’s less about proving or disproving God, and more about asking: When we reach the edges of knowledge, what—if anything—should we place there?

Format: Lecture and discussion

Note: social time for our community 15 minutes before the presentation.

Watch the inserted interview (see below).

Then, join us for an in-depth conversation and guided discussion centered on the inserted (see below) interview with Stanislav Grof, a pioneering figure in transpersonal psychology and psychedelic research. Grof’s work bridges modern psychotherapy with ancient spiritual traditions, exploring non-ordinary states of consciousness, holotropic breathwork, and the therapeutic potential of psychedelics.
We'll reflect on key themes from the interview, including his approach to expanded states of awareness, the perinatal unconscious, and his challenges to mainstream psychiatry.

NOTE: This meet-up will help us prepare for a deeper reading assignment (Healing Our Deepest Wounds, by Stan Grof) on Grof's approach to Psyche (see next meetup).

No prior reading required—just bring your curiosity and regard to others!

Join us for a respectful, fact-based discussion exploring common beliefs and debates about trans people. We'll take a nonpartisan look at topics often discussed in politics and the media—such as participation in sports, healthcare, and legal protections. Are common conservative concerns about safety and fairness valid? Are progressive policies helping or hurting trans people and society? We'll focus on what evidence says, what remains debated, and where thoughtful people from different perspectives might find common ground. Open to all viewpoints; respectful dialogue is encouraged.

A little about our host:
Garrett is a programmer turned award-winning software inventor turned entrepreneur (PlateRate.com is his company). His hobby is writing and discussing practical philosophy, and he does life coaching on request to help people live happy, moral lives. He is also the executive director of The Free Thinker Institute (FreeThinkerInstitute.org), which aims to create a community that helps members increase happiness and decrease harm for themselves and those they can influence.

Format: Lecture and discussion

Note: social time for our community 15 minutes before the presentation.