Philosophy Now
Meet other local people interested in Philosophy Now: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Philosophy Now group.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out philosophy now events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
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Philosophy Now Events Today
Join in-person Philosophy Now events happening right now
Street Photography Editorial Assignment – Classic Car Boot Sale (Kings X)
**You’ve been commissioned to photograph the Classic Car Boot Sale (London's largest, coolest, and most anticipated vintage event!) for my fictitious culture magazine The Hipster Times.**
This mini-workshop event focuses on shooting editorial street photography in a lively, visually rich environment. Visitors in their best vintage outfits mingle around over beautiful classic vehicles, live DJs set the soundtrack, and the crowds provide endless opportunities for interesting portraits, candid moments, and creative compositions. Prepare for top people watching and celebrity spotting.
Your assignment: capture character portraits, candid moments, and creative compositions. I’ll be there with you on hand, guiding you to approach subjects confidently, observe interesting moments, and experiment with framing and camera settings as we move through the event. This is a hands-on mini-workshop event for beginners and intermediate street photographers.
***
**What You Will Learn**
**Approaching People Confidently:** Practical techniques for engaging strangers for portraits, both posed and candid.
**Observing & Capturing Moments:** Spot interactions and interesting gestures as they happen, then photograph them effectively.
**Framing & Composition:** Use the event environment—stalls, visitors, cars, and signage—to compose visually compelling shots.
**Camera Settings On-the-Go:** Adjust aperture, shutter speed, and ISO quickly to suit changing light and movement.
**Combining Shots:** Pull together portraits, details, and interactions into cohesive images you’ll be proud of.
***
**What to Bring**
* **Camera Kit:** A camera (any type) with a lens suitable for portraits and wider scenes
* **Essentials:** Cleared memory card and fully charged batteries.
* **Travel Light:** Comfortable shoes and clothing suited to the weather.
* **Entry ticket** to the Classic Car Boot Sale (please purchase separately on their website : https://events.humanitix.com/classic-car-boot-sale/tickets)
***
**Event Info**
* **Date & Time:** Sunday 19th April 2026
* **Duration:** 2 hours
* **Location:** Granary Square, King's Cross, London
* **Group Size:** Max 5
* **Level:** Beginner & intermediate
***
**Bonus for Members**
* **FREE DOWNLOAD – Beginner Street Photography Tip Sheets:** Tip Sheet covering the key topics from this event. You will receive a download link to follow along during the session.
* **FACEBOOK COMMUNITY GROUP:** A private group for Meetup members to showcase their best work, receive critique, advice, and tips.
A Conversation on Grief : Belonging, Identity, and Loss After Religion
You are invited to this joint event of Association of Black Humanists and Unruly Beauty.
**Overview**
Can a life without traditional religious meaning still feel sacred or whole?
Grief is often associated with the loss of a person, but many of us carry quieter, less recognised forms of grief. This workshop creates space to explore the grief that can arise after losing a community, a shared purpose, or a spiritual framework, especially in the aftermath of leaving a religious tradition or belief system.
Together, we will gently examine what it means to grieve not only *what was*, but also *what was promised*: belonging, certainty, identity, and a sense of divine connection. Participants are invited to reflect on how loss of faith or religious community can affect meaning-making, relationships, and one’s inner life, often in ways that are invisible or misunderstood by others.
You do not need to identify as spiritual or religious to attend.
This space honours doubt, curiosity, longing, anger, relief, and hope, (without pushing answers or beliefs). This is not about fixing grief, it is about witnessing loss, honouring transition, and making room for new forms of connection, within yourself and with others.
Whether you are newly navigating life after religion or years into rebuilding your sense of self, you are welcome here.
All Unruly Beauty events are open to ALL BODIES and ALL IDENTITIES! We affirm the inherent worth and dignity of every person, and are committed to cultivating a space that is inclusive, affirming, and psychologically safe for all.
Please get your ticket at:
[A Conversation on Grief : Belonging, Identity, and Loss After Religion Tickets, Sunday, Apr 19 from 2 pm to 6 pm | Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-conversation-on-grief-belonging-identity-and-loss-after-religion-tickets-1983653963403?aff=ebdsshsms&utm_share_source=listing_android&sg=41dc7852e3c2c15abff109e6d60c35ae41b4d315c9aaf13ae99fadc159dd4742c404b715e2e5b679ea51461ecf7d9b293310945233892b469142c37487084052265edc7df3f422ec4d0ab644db)
**(If the cost of a ticket feels like an obstacle, please send us a message. We welcome you and want you to be part of this space.)**
### Location
### The Advocacy Academy
2 Beehive Place
London SW9 7QR
Street Photography ; Themes
Join us on a street photography workshop which is all about themes!
Theme's are great as they give a point of focus and helps you avoid wandering aimlessly hoping something catches your eye. Themes can also help you build a repeatable process that you can use time after time.
Part of our shooting will take us to the St George's Day celebrations where you'll be able to shoot the Pearly Kings and Queens as well as a whole host of colourful and exciting characters!
EXPERIENCE
* Beginners/Refreshers
EQUIPMENT:
* Any camera
* Any lens 18-55 kit lens or longer for candid shots
OTHER ESSENTIALS
* A fun and experimental attitude!
* Wear appropriate clothing and shoes for the weather
TRAVEL
* As usual check TFL website for any issues that may delay your journey
CONTACT
* Alex 07956 264049
VENICE PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND - Oct 2026
[https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events/313109095)
UPCOMING EVENTS
[www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events](http://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa/events)
Guide to the Great Themes in Art
Hello!
If you haven't seen much of me of late it's because I have been busy writing a book!
My Guide to the Great Themes in Art is a compendium of many themes that concern us today, painted across the centuries by some great artists. Love & Marriage, Body, Health, War, Faith, Nature, Identity, Food
are just some of the themes that you may find interesting.
The book will be published early next year and in advance of that
I am inviting you to an illustrated talk and a reading from the book
( combined with an optional Sunday roast dinner ! )
at Hotel Indigo London Clerkenwell
2 Clerkenwell Rd, London EC1M 5PQ
Places are limited, so book [here](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-mona-lisa-and-other-housewives-a-guide-to-the-great-themes-in-art-tickets-1983974779974?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl) soon
but do also rsvp here so that I know you are coming
Hope to see you if you happen to be in London...
Lydia
Street Photography : Themes
Join us on a street photography workshop which is all about themes!
Theme's are great as they give a point of focus and helps you avoid wandering aimlessly hoping something catches your eye. Themes can also help you build a repeatable process that you can use time after time.
Part of our shooting will take us to the St George's Day celebrations where you'll be able to shoot the Pearly Kings and Queens as well as a whole host of colourful and exciting characters!
EXPERIENCE
* Beginners/Refreshers
EQUIPMENT:
* Any camera
* Any lens 18-55 kit lens or longer for candid shots
OTHER ESSENTIALS
* A fun and experimental attitude!
* Wear appropriate clothing and shoes for the weather
TRAVEL
* As usual check TFL website for any issues that may delay your journey
CONTACT
* Alex 07956 264049
VENICE PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND - Oct 2026
[https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographiclcp/events/313109097/](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographiclcp/events/313109097/)
UPCOMING EVENTS
[www.meetup.com/londonphotographiclcp/events](http://www.meetup.com/londonphotographiclcp/events)
A Guide to the Great Themes in Art
Hello!
If you haven't seen much of me of late it's because I have been busy writing a book!
My Guide to the Great Themes in Art is a compendium of many themes that concern us today, painted across the centuries by some great artists. Love & Marriage, Body, Health, War, Faith, Nature, Identity, Food
are just some of the themes that you may find interesting.
The book will be published early next year and in advance of that
I am inviting you to an illustrated talk and a reading from the book
( combined with an optional Sunday roast dinner ! )
at Hotel Indigo London Clerkenwell
2 Clerkenwell Rd, London EC1M 5PQ
Places are limited, so book [here](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-mona-lisa-and-other-housewives-a-guide-to-the-great-themes-in-art-tickets-1983974779974?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl) soon
but do also rsvp here so that I know you are coming
Hope to see you if you happen to be in London...
Lydia
Philosophy Now Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
PERSONALITY: Is there a Sovereign, Warrior, Magician or Lover inside all of us?
**In our next discussion, we ask: Are there only four core personality types — and do they explain more about you than you think?**
In the 1990s, psychologist Robert Moore and mythologist Douglas Gillette proposed that every person's behaviour falls into four broad patterns: the **Sovereign** (leadership and order), the **Warrior** (discipline and action), the **Magician** (knowledge and insight), and the **Lover** (connection and creativity). Think of them as four "modes" you switch between at work, in relationships, and under pressure.
Their book "King, Warrior, Magician, Lover" drew on Jung's psychology and cross-cultural research to argue that these patterns aren't just interesting labels — they're deeply embedded in how humans develop, and that most personal and professional dysfunction comes from these modes being underdeveloped or out of balance.
**POTENTIAL DISCUSSION POINTS:**
- **Do these four types ring true?** Think about the people you work with or live with. Can you map them to one dominant mode? Can you map yourself? Or is this just another personality quiz dressed up in mythology?
- **Is this relevant to everyone?** The book was written about men, but researchers like Jean Shinoda Bolen and Stephanie Welch have since argued these same patterns apply across all genders. Is mature leadership, disciplined action, sharp thinking, and deep connection really gendered — or just human?
- **What does "growing up" actually look like?** The authors argue that most adults are running on adolescent versions of these patterns — the Warrior without discipline becomes a bully, the Sovereign without responsibility becomes a pushover. Is this a useful way to think about why some people seem stuck?
- **What happens when these patterns go wrong?** Moore and Gillette describe "shadow" versions of each type — the Sovereign becomes a Tyrant, the Lover becomes an Addict, the Warrior becomes a Sadist. Have you seen these patterns play out in your boss, your family, or yourself?
---
**RECOMMENDED READING:**
We recommend "King, Warrior, Magician, Lover" by Moore and Gillette as excellent source material for this discussion — but it's not obligatory. Come with your thoughts, experiences, and opinions; that's all you need.
**Buy the book:**
https://www.amazon.co.uk/King-Warrior-Magician-Lover-Rediscovering/dp/0062506064
**Read or Listen for Free:**
- Download the PDF: https://pdfroom.com/books/king-warrior-magician-lover-rediscovering-the-archetypes-of-the-mature-masculine/Y6R2XwP2gZ3
- Listen to the Audiobook (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKwwHPV9IyA
**Short on time? Watch a summary:**
- King, Warrior, Magician, Lover (Deep Dive): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmS4bGb3bAE
**Want to go deeper on the feminine perspective?**
- "Goddesses in Everywoman" by Jean Shinoda Bolen — the leading Jungian work on personality patterns in women
- Stephanie Welch's "Queen, Guardian, Oracle, Courtesan" framework at recivilizedwoman.com — a direct counterpart to Moore and Gillette's four types
---
**GROUND RULES:**
This is a gentle, but thought-provoking, discussion.
It's a judgement-free zone where people can air their thoughts on particular issues, and discover other people's similar and different perspectives.
So bring your best opinions and ideas. Everyone is welcome.
**LOCATION:**
We will meet in the 1st floor area of Coffee Island Edgware Road.
There's plenty of space 🛋️, and coffee ☕, tea ☕, cold drinks, and snacks are available.
**NEAREST STATIONS:**
Edgware Road [Circle, Hammersmith City, District Line] (1 min walk)
Edgware Road [Bakerloo Line] (1 min walk)
Paddington [Bakerloo, Hammersmith, Circle and Elizabeth Line] (7 mins walk)
***
**FOOD AND SOCIAL AFTERWARDS:**
Most of us usually go for food afterwards, so feel free to factor in time after for dinner 🍛🍟🍝🍣🍜🍗🍔
East London Fiction Book Club
A fresh, intentional space for readers in East London who take their fiction seriously. We aren't a social mixer that happens to have a book in the background; we are a dedicated circle of six readers who meet once a month to dissect, debate, and celebrate high-quality literature.
Why Only Six?
We believe the best literary analysis happens when everyone has a seat at the head of the table. By strictly limiting our meetups to 6 people, we ensure:
No one is talked over.
The conversation stays focused and nuanced.
An intimate environment where we can truly get to the heart of the text.
The Reading List
Our focus is strictly fiction only. We explore the boundaries of the craft, focusing on:
Contemporary Literary Fiction (The Booker, International Booker, and beyond).
Modern Classics that deserve a second look.
Translated Works that offer a different lens on the world.
How We Work
When: Once a month on a Sunday
Where: Carefully selected, quiet spots across East London—from Hackney to Bow—where the atmosphere suits a serious conversation.
The Commitment: Because spaces are so limited, we ask that you only RSVP if you are certain you can attend and have finished the book. We dive straight into spoilers and structural analysis from minute one. If you cannot attend, pleaae cancel 24 hours before hand to allow someone else to attend
Mandarin Learning Games 语言学习游戏!
3rd Sunday of every month, unleash your inner language ninja with our fun Mandarin learning games! Get ready to ditch stale textbooks and rote memorisation, and watch your language skills truly skyrocket!
These monthly gatherings are designed for you to:
* **Boost Conversational Confidence:** Engage in lively, real-time communication that feels like play, not practice.
* **Sharpen Your Listening Skills** as you navigate thoughtfully designed game scenarios and interact with fellow learners.
* **Expand Your Vocabulary:** Effortlessly pick up new words and phrases, enabling you to express yourself with precision and richness.
* **Retain More, Stress Less:** Experience the power of learning through fun, making new vocabulary and grammar stick with less effort!
**What Makes Our Language Games Special:**
Unlike traditional lessons, our sessions are a unique blend of structured fun and effective learning:
* **Immersive & Interactive:** We transform language concepts into engaging, team-based games that facilitate natural conversation and active participation.
* **Relaxed & Supportive Environment:** Forget competition! Our classroom setting is designed to be comfortable and non-intimidating, encouraging everyone to experiment and learn at their own pace.
* **All Levels Learn Together:** You'll consolidate what you already know while effortlessly picking up new vocabulary from our well-facilitated activities.
* **Expert Guidance:** Our experienced tutor provides active language support, ensuring every activity is both enjoyable and highly effective for language improvement.
* **Suitable for All Levels!** (For beginners: if you have more than 20 hours of Mandarin learning, you're good to join us!)
**Session Details:**
🗓️ **When:** 3rd Sunday of every month
⏰ **Time:** 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
**💰 Price:** £10 - [Tap for Easy Payment](https://monzo.com/pay/r/china-unbound_eTW5aAZoqiDQ3p) (To secure your spot, please complete payment when you RSVP)
Join us, and accelerate your road to fluency today! We can't wait to welcome you.
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**Take your Mandarin beyond the event.** 🤝 If you’re looking for a bit more structure to go along with your conversation practice, let’s chat! We're offering **FREE 1-on-1 advice sessions** to help you find the perfect learning path. Get a professional assessment of your level so you can study with confidence. **No commitment** required. [Book your Free Session](https://eu.bigin.online/org20070515371/bookings/course-advice)
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**China Unbound** is the best place to learn practical Chinese for adults.
While most schools prioritise grammar and writing, China Unbound empowers you to confidently converse, understand, and actively apply Chinese in real-world situations. Join us and discover a fun, fast, and personalised way to master Chinese!
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**Hear From Our Learners:**
"The Language games session provides a well-structured and immersive way of learning. Even as a beginner I am able to practice all aspects of the language and have learnt a lot whilst having fun!" - Jeremy Smithers
"The Sunday games session is in a classroom environment but relaxed with organized team-based games designed to facilitate conversation. It’s a good way to consolidate what you know and pick up some new vocab. The folks who attend vary massively in ability so it’s not competitive, but more a chance to learn from people who are more advanced and help along newbies. I recommend it!" - Mark Mansell
**FAQ 常见问题::**
**What if I don’t feel my Chinese is good enough to join?**
Don’t worry, our hosts will be on hand to offer support and help you participate. Many are also group exercises, so you can lean on stronger members too.
**What games will I be playing?**
You'll be diving into a variety of engaging and interactive language activities specifically designed to match your proficiency level! Think fun, familiar formats like Articulate, and creative role-play scenarios.
Our games are carefully designed (by us!) to intensively develop your speaking and listening abilities, providing you with comprehensive language input.
In addition, every game is expertly facilitated by our experienced tutors. They provide real-time support and guidance, ensure activities are well-structured for optimal learning, and offer clear explanations and consolidation of any new vocabulary or concepts that emerge. It's learning through play, with expert support!
**I’m not into games, is it still for me?**
Yes!! Think of it as immersive practice, not gaming. Even if you’re not a gamer, you will enjoy learning Mandarin this way! Our activities are designed to boost your vocabulary, pronunciation, and fluency in a natural and engaging way.
**Are there any discounts for Chinese lessons for members?**
Yes, you can use code MEETUP10 for your exclusive £10 discount on our [Chinese courses](https://china-unbound.co.uk/personal/) site-wide!
Singles Social for the 45-60 Crowd and Friends at Hilton Lounge 🌟
# Singles Social for the 45-60 Crowd and Friends at Hilton Lounge 🌟
Join us for an exciting evening at the Hilton Lounge, tailored primarily for singles aged 45-60, but now open to other age groups eager to connect and mingle with this vibrant crowd! Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with great music, tasty drinks, and engaging conversations. Whether you're looking to make new friends or spark a connection, this event is perfect for building meaningful relationships across generations.
🏨✨ No rush, no schedules, just a cozy evening in an elegant setting to connect, chat, and spark new friendships or maybe something more! 💖
Location: Hilton Hotel Lounge, Holborn, London🎟️
Sink into plush seats, sip on a cocktail 🍸, and enjoy the warm, sophisticated ambiance of the Hilton Lounge. This is a low-pressure, easy-going evening designed for singles to mingle, laugh, and share stories in a welcoming environment. No awkward icebreakers or forced activities – just great company and meaningful conversations! 😊
Conversation Starters to Spark Connections 💬
Dream Destinations: Where’s that one place you’ve always wanted to visit? ✈️
Life’s Best Moments: Share a story about a time you felt truly alive! 🌈
Hobbies & Passions: What’s something you love doing that lights up your world? 🎨🎶
Foodie Favorites: Best dish you’ve ever tasted or a cuisine you can’t resist? 🍴
Movies & Books: What’s a film or book that left a mark on you? 📚🎬
This event is all about creating a relaxed space for singles to connect naturally. Whether you're looking for romance, new friends, or just a fun night out, come join us for an evening of great vibes and great company! 🥂
Reserve your spot now and let’s make some unforgettable connections! 💫 DM to confirm or just show up – we can’t wait to meet you! 😄
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**Some Tips:**
1. **Let’s all commit to updating our RSVPs if plans change**—it helps us plan better and ensures great attendance for everyone. If you RSVP “yes” but don’t attend and don’t update your RSVP, you may be removed from the group to keep things fair. No stress, though—you can rejoin for a small £10 fee! Just send me a DM, and I’ll share the PayPal details to get you back in.
2. **Turn Up on Time at the start!** This helps the quality of the event and helps you.
3. If you are struggling with the **app**, use the web page instead, that's what I use.
4. **Attendee Numbers & Guest Lists:** We have this event listed at least on two groups and the guest list includes attendees from all. You can see the list of attendees here:
[https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/](https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/)
[https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/](https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/)
[https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife](https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife)
5. **Join our** **social media**:
**Instagram**: [https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/](https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/)
**X:** [https://x.com/CityZenLondon](https://x.com/CityZenLondon)
6. **Our WhatsApp group:** [See private comment in the comments section below]. We have a few rules including no ads, no DMs unless recipient is in the "Direct Messaging List" or risk removal and £10 rejoin fee.
7. **Support Our Amazing London Event Hosts! 🙌**
Our incredible crew of hosts is the heartbeat of London’s buzzing meetup scene, bringing people together for unforgettable experiences that spark connection, growth, and fun! 🌟 From museum adventures to flirty dating mixers, these rockstar hosts pour their energy, time, and passion into creating events that level up your social and communication skills. But hosting isn’t easy—it takes resources, effort, and heart. 💖
Please consider supporting our hosts with a donation to keep the good vibes flowing and help us make London the ultimate social hub! 🚀 Below, meet our hosts for this event and see how you can chip in to fuel their amazing work.
**Zen & The Meetup Groups**
*The Visionary Social Connector*
Zen, our AI guru with 25 years in the game, founded these meetups to transform his own social skills and now helps others do the same. From sparking in-person networking to coordinating epic events, Zen’s passion for connection is unstoppable. Help him keep the momentum going!
Support Zen: Donate to cover event planning tools, venue bookings, and more. **[Donation Link](https://paypal.me/Zenswalks)**
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**Disclaimer, Liability Waiver & Media Consent**
By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following:
**Organiser Identity** – The organiser operates under the community name **“ZEN”**, which is used as an alias for privacy and branding purposes. By joining, you understand that “ZEN” refers to the organiser and/or designated hosts of this event. **Assumption of Risk** – You understand and accept that participation in any social, recreational, or group activity involves inherent risks, including but not limited to personal injury, illness, property damage, or other unforeseen incidents. You voluntarily choose to attend at your own sole risk. **Personal Responsibility** – You are solely responsible for your own safety, health, wellbeing, and personal belongings at all times. It is your responsibility to exercise good judgment, act responsibly, and take appropriate precautions before, during, and after the event. **No Organiser Liability** – The organiser, hosts, volunteers, and the community known as **ZEN** accept no responsibility and shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, damage, accident, theft, or any other issue that may arise as a result of your participation. **Guests** – If you bring guests, you accept full responsibility for their conduct, safety, and understanding of this disclaimer. **Independent Event** – This event may be held in conjunction with other social or non-singles meetup groups. ZEN is not responsible for the actions, behaviour, or arrangements of any third parties. **Media Consent** – By attending this event, you consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded. You grant ZEN and its organisers the irrevocable right to use such images and recordings for promotional, marketing, social media, and community purposes without compensation or further approval. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, it is your responsibility to inform the organiser in advance and to remove yourself from areas where filming or photography is taking place. **Acceptance of Terms** – By attending, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted this disclaimer. You release ZEN, its organisers, hosts, volunteers, and members from all claims, demands, or causes of action, whether known or unknown, arising out of your participation or the use of photography/videography captured at the event.
Your attendance at this event signifies your full acceptance of this policy. If you do not agree, you should not attend.
Coffee Chats In The Sun: Have The Under 20s Become Really Boring?
Time is precious. Here we value non-boring valuable chats and interactions that are fully engaging, soulfully enriching, inspiring, and leave you a bit wiser than when you arrived. In that spirit, today’s hosted laid back social coffee chat will offer a perfect haven for the inquisitive & curious to share views on the following intriguing observation.
Growing up in the west - before the 2020s - Friday and Saturday nights meant going out with your mates for highly sociable enjoyable fun things like music, dancing/clubbing, drinking, eating, comedy, singing, being silly random conversations and banter with strangers you'd meet out and about 100% organically. Taking drugs even. Tuesdays and Thursdays was about doing the same stuff but with work collegues hence the workplace was a place to make new lifelong friends. Weekend daytimes were for doing healthier but socially fun stuff like playing sports, pub lunches, visting galleries/museums, theatre and watching movies together at the Cinema or around a mate's house.
Fast‑forward 2026 - it feels like everything changed: Despite public transport running all night (it wasn't when I was in my teens/early 20s yet my peer group stayed out proper late most weekends) - on a Sat night "young" people head home at 10.30pm, skip the dance floor for board games, avoid bar banter, jokes and rarely engage in organic spontaneous chats with strangers. Whatsmore the stats are wild — data show virginity rates among men hitting record highs by age 30, social anxiety and social skills off-the charts. So what's happened?
We’ll explore questions like:
* Is this just nostalgia talking, or has something genuinely shifted?
* Why has typical multi generational fun pastimes (1950s to 2010s) lost its spark for the 20‑somethings?
* How much does health, economics, mobile phones, social media and gaming explain the trend?
* Are certain professions (like tech/IT) changing the social landscape, or just attracting already‑very introverted people?
* Why are some stats so **contradictory**? Think higher reported male virginity rates by 30 alongside rising STI rates in young people. Despite tanking alcohol sales - UK alcohol related death rates per capita are still rising. What's going on?
* Target audience demographics for mainstrream commericial pop music radio stations (Capital, Kiss etc) is still 18 to 24 suggesting young people still consume music and other popular culture but are not going out to enjoy it. Why?
* Is it harder for younger people to make genuine friends today and if so why?
* Dancing is natural to all of us - every kid moves instinctively to music. So beyond a less joyous social life what happens when these innate behaviours get suppressed as adults? What has this healthy exercise and creative expression been replaced with?
* AI is predicted to take over technical job and tasks - the most future‑proof skills will be things like interpersonal skills & emotional intelligence built through real‑world socialising. Employers already complain that young people lack these skills. How will they get non-AI jobs?
* Levels of emotional intelligence and self-awareness - particularly amongst men - are at an all time low. Wiill social anxiety worsen further as the introversion trend accelerates?
* What does all this mean for dating, relationships, and starting families?
Expect lively debate, sharp humour, and a host (a former news journalist) that isn’t afraid to ask awkward questions. Bring your curiosity, your stories, and your caffeine tolerance — we’ll stir the coffee pot on whether the young have really become more boring or have they’re just discovered new fun activities - if so what are they? And if you are in your 20s - I would love to hear your views!
Oh BTW - Lucy Pearson - the blondie whose friends have become boring - she's a British journalist
Lucas - The alcoholic 3am Eternal singing break-dancing geriatrics
April Book Club: The Wedding People by Alison Espach
We will be meeting at The Racketeer! We will divide into smaller groups to discuss this month's book.
It will be very obvious when you arrive to the pub, where our group is, but please feel free to give me a call if you are struggling to find us.
For new members, shoot me a message on meetup and I will send through my phone number!
Lecture—Être ici est une splendeur
*Etre ici est une splendeur* de Marie Darrieussecq est la biographie de Paula M. Becker. (160 pages)
Réfléchi, saisissant et nécessaire. Un livre sur une artiste qui devient une œuvre d’art en soi, et qui attire l’attention sur la persistance de l’altérité et de l’exclusion dans lesquelles évoluent les femmes artistes.
Intéressé à la lecture en espagnol, en anglais ou à la littérature perse ? :
-www.meetup.com/gaia-books
-www.meetup.com/gaia-libros
-www.meetup.com/persian-culture
-French Art Group (envoyez-moi une demande)
-Instagram: @persian_culture_
Philosophy Now Events Near You
Connect with your local Philosophy Now community
Libera Animae - Freeing the Soul
Main Library, Meeting Room 2B
Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen).
Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection.
All backgrounds are welcome.
Sunday Brunch
Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!
Vaso Dublin: Happy Hour & Trivia
We're bringing the community together for a casual happy hour with ServiceNow-themed trivia, food and drinks, and great conversation.
Prompt vs. Paintbrush
AI is changing how art is made. But when does it stop being your work and start being the machine’s?
This month we're going to be doing a panel with with digital image, music, and written word artists, talking about at what point, while using AI in the creation process, does the work become not the artist creation?
We encourage audience participation during this event that will be moderated by Chris Slee.
Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus.
Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.transformlabs.com/services)
Sign up also accessible via [Transform Labs Luma](https://luma.com/55umjqta)
The Power of the Subconscious Mind - Free Lecture
**How to take control of your subconscious and harness its power!**
Join us for an eye-opening lecture where the speaker will break down complex ideas in a clear and practical way.
You’ll gain insights into:
✅ The true definition of the subconscious
✅ How it generates unwanted emotions
✅ Its real purpose and function
✅ What determines the pressure it exerts on you
And the most important topic:
**How do you take control of your subconscious!**
But this isn’t just another lecture where you sit and listen passively. It’s interactive and engaging—you can ask questions at any time.
📅 Reserve your spot now!
Seats are limited, so don’t wait too long to sign up.
Location: 1266 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215
Hosted by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation
ASH UU Topic: TBD
ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio
TBD
Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!




























