Perspectives for a New Enlightenment: Essays in Humanist Understanding

George Hewson will present his book Perspectives for a New Enlightenment: Essays in Humanist Understanding.

In Perspectives for a New Enlightenment, George Hewson offers readers a clear, engaging, and intellectually generous introduction to thirteen of the most pressing issues facing humanists today. Each chapter distills the essential considerations of its topic—art, democracy, science, First Peoples, economics, and more—providing a solid foundation for informed discussion without oversimplifying the complexity of the questions involved. Designed for both newcomers and seasoned humanists, the book equips readers to think critically and explore further, with every chapter concluding in an annotated bibliography that highlights diverse viewpoints and invites deeper research. This is not a manifesto but a guide: a thoughtful companion for anyone committed to evidence, dialogue, and the ongoing pursuit of human understanding. Click here to read some of George Hewson's articles.

Schedule:
10:00 AM - 10:20 AM welcoming and chit-chat
10:20 AM - 12:00 PM presentation and discussion (some members often stay until 1:30 PM or 2:00 PM)
Regardless of the attendees listed below we usually have 15-20 attendees since many are not Meetup members and receive updates through our newsletter (feel free to email hovlane2020@gmail.com to subscribe).

Previous topics:
• Are hate speech laws compatible with free speech?
• Should civil servants be allowed to strike?
• Should the head of state/government be allowed to grant pardons?
• What would be a rational immigration policy?
• What are the pros/cons of DEI?
• Should parents be allowed to opt out of childhood vaccines?
• Is diversity our strength?
• Is misogyny a learned behavior or an innate trait?
• Should we have birthright citizenship?
• Can news be unbiased?
• Should protests be allowed in front of legislators' homes?