Freethinker's Workshop #1

WHAT
Let's begin! I did my best with the venue. There are always pros and cons, but I'm hoping to start from here and plan for future meetings with your input.

If you joined this group it means you read the description so please give thought to your reasons for interest. I'd love to share them first. We are currently strangers, are we not? Let's get past this part.

Prepare for a jury-style discussion focused on collaboration using the Freethinker construct as it existed originally (see below) and where science, technology, and a global economy have placed us all now.
This doesn't have to be as heavy as it sounds, the only point is to arrive at a modern definition of Freethinkers that works for US. We must put on our collective oxygen mask and first discover our needs/wants before reaching out to others. Just bring your infinitely complex brains!

The original freethought construct, emerging in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, was an intellectual movement centered on testing religious beliefs against reason, experience, and evidence rather than accepting them through authority, tradition, or scripture. Originating in England, it was initially a method of questioning orthodox Christian doctrines, often favoring a rational, evidence-based approach to understanding nature and divinity.

Key components of this early construct included:

• Rationalism: The conviction that the mind must be used to judge the truth of any proposition
• Religious Critique: Direct opposition to dogmatic religion, clerical authority, and the belief that doubt was sinful.
• Deism & Naturalism: Many early freethinkers were not atheists, but rather deists who believed in a "Creator" who communicated through nature and reason rather than supernatural revelation.
• Influence of the Enlightenment: The movement was heavily shaped by the period's focus on scientific inquiry and the refusal to accept knowledge blindly.

WHERE:
The Nelson Poynter Memorial Library at USF ST. Pete

https://share.google/wOkUl4xr3KElKWIIX

Please don't risk parking on campus unless you are just that savage or happen to have a pass.

There are many metered spots along 1st St SE or Parkmobile users can find 3 lots:

• Lot 9: South of Harbor Hall (HBR) [Zone: 38005]
• Lot 10: North of Harbor Hall (HBR) [Zone: 38006]
• Lot 11: West of Harbor Hall (HBR) [Zone: 38007]

The library allows food and drink responsibly, which means you have to be at least as responsible as a college kid.