What we’re about
Welcome to Premise: Big Questions, Real Conversation
Premise is a space for thoughtful people who crave more than small talk. Each session starts with a big, timeless question—like What is freedom?, Are we our work?, or How much is enough?—and pairs it with a short piece of art, literature, or film. We use those works to spark meaningful conversations.
Who Should Join:
Premise is for curious adults of all ages who value depth over debate, and connection over consensus. You don’t need a philosophy degree—just a willingness to read or watch something short ahead of time and come ready to think and talk with others in the community.
What to Expect:
Each session is structured and deeply engaging. You'll receive a short prep email (usually 1–1.5 hours of reading or viewing and we provided the text), then meet in person for a guided conversation. There’s no lecturing, just a guided dialogue designed to help you listen, reflect, and connect. Expect surprising insights, genuine connection, and the kind of conversation that lingers long after it ends.
Premise events are currently held in 8 cities across the US, with more to come in 2025!
Upcoming events (1)
See all- Premise Session: What Does Democracy Demand of Us?zola, Spokane, WA$25.00
🟡 Space is limited. Please register directly with Premise. It helps us keep things organized—participants join from multiple places! Registration link: https://www.premiseinstitute.com/event-details/what-does-democracy-demand-of-us-spokane-wa
Feel free to use code `spokanemeetup` at checkout to attend your first Premise session at no cost. We use all registration fees to support our chapter leaders and grow the program to more communities.
👉 Sign up hereWhat Does Democracy Demand of Us?
📍 In-person guided discussion in SpokaneWhat does it really mean to live in a democracy—and what does it ask of us in return? Join us for an evening of meaningful conversation as we explore these questions through two short, unforgettable stories: Ursula K. Le Guin’s The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas and N.K. Jemisin’s The Ones Who Stay and Fight. Each story presents a vision of a society built on sacrifice, and invites us to reflect on power, justice, and our responsibility to one another.
🕒 Reading time: Under 1.5 hours. All readings will be sent upon registration.
About Premise:
Premise creates space for conversations that matter. We’re currently in 10 cities and growing. Each session is a guided, facilitator-led discussion centered on an enduring question and a short, thought-provoking work of literature, film, or art. These works serve as a “third thing”—a shared starting point for deeper reflection and dialogue. It’s not a debate or a lecture, but a structured, inclusive space to think openly and connect meaningfully. No expertise required—just curiosity and a willingness to listen, question, and share.
