What we’re about
This is a community-led group that fosters stimulating conversations between people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Events in this group will range between cross-posted events with other philosophy/conversation groups, or volunteer-hosted events on Sundays.
If you have a topic suggestion for a event or if you are interested in hosting an event of your own, please reach out and we'll make it happen! Hope to chat with you soon.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Theology & Apologetics Weekly Discussion (Cross-Post)Needs location
**This is a cross-post from ONLINE Theology & Apologetics Discussion**
ONLINE MEETING INFORMATION
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87017563332
Password = 123456A Discussion Group (Not a Bible Study)
Although we do discuss the Bible, this group is not a Bible study; it is a discussion group.
We discuss topics regarding religious faith, practice and experience including the following: Christian theology; the Bible; Atheism and other Skeptics; Islam; Mormonism; Charismatic theology; Calvinism and Reformed theology; Dispensationalism; End-Times Eschatology; King James Onlyism; Mysticism; Universalism; Separation of Church and State; ethics; etc. Topics are decided by those attending so bring a list of your favorites.
Everyone is welcome to join the group. Many perspectives are represented ranging from born-again Christians to Atheists and other skeptics and non-believers. We have spirited discussions and debates but we do so in a friendly and respectful manner.
You are welcome to participate in the discussions or just listen. Be prepared to be challenged (so come with a thick skin). And feel free to challenge the beliefs, assumptions and thoughts of others in a respectful way.
A Note about Attendance
Many new people ask, "Will you and I be the only ones there? Nobody else has RSVP'd." Most of the attendees of this group have been coming for a long time and do not bother to RSVP. There are typically about 6 to 12 people who show up each week.A Note to Christians
This is your opportunity to meet actual unbelievers who are asking you to explain the Gospel and your beliefs to them. This is a great forum to practice witnessing and putting forth a defense of your faith. You may find that defending your faith and presenting the Gospel to real live unbelievers is a bit different from reading books on witnessing or just talking about witnessing with other Christians at church. As the New Testament indicates, the Gospel is an offense to unbelievers so we should not be surprised when the unbeliever reacts out of that offense. Set your expectations accordingly. It may be difficult at first but this group will give you excellent preparation for sharing the Gospel and defending your faith. This group is not for the fainthearted (but neither is biblical Christianity).Being prepared to defend our faith is the duty of the Christian according to the Apostle Peter:
1 Peter 3:14-17 - 14b Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, 15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. 17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God's will, than for doing evil.
- (Cross Post) Think Outside the Box: Building Critical Thinking Skills TogetherLink visible for attendees
**This is a cross-post from The Thinkers' Club. While I may be listed as the host it will actually be their usual group hosting**
Many individuals find themselves caught in the tension between conformity and independent thought, feeling pressured to align with group opinions. This struggle can stifle innovation and lead to poor decision-making, ultimately hindering personal and organizational growth. Solutions such as implementing training programs that emphasize critical thinking skills have been suggested, but they often encounter obstacles like limited buy-in from leadership and varying levels of engagement among participants. How can we create an environment that nurtures independent thought and robust dialogue without undermining team cohesion and collaboration?
- What are some common signs that groupthink is occurring within a team or organization, and how can we recognize it early?
- How do our personal biases and assumptions influence our ability to think critically? What strategies can help mitigate this?
- What role does diversity of thought play in enhancing critical thinking, and how can we ensure it is genuinely valued in group settings?
- How can we create an environment where dissenting opinions are encouraged and respected without causing conflict or division?
- What are some effective techniques for challenging our own assumptions and those of others during discussions or decision-making?
Encourage critical thinking with 3 questions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hoE8mtUS1E
How to think, not what to think
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dluwVks444
Episode 1.1: What is Critical Thinking?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J0yEAE5owWw
What is Group Think? ...and How to Prevent it
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGGMf41K24Y
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In addition to the main topic (above), we also provide breakout rooms at 8pm as follows:
“Applied Practical Philosophy” – philosophy and its applications
“Town Square” – politics and current events
“Conference Room” – open for anything
“The Lounge” – light social chat
![[Cross-Post] Does Ignorance = Innocence? (online discussion) cover photo](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/b/5/2/event_527576146.webp "[Cross-Post] Does Ignorance = Innocence? (online discussion)")
