Members Meet & Greet on the Rooftop Terrace of the SNF Library

Meet & Greet: Bring a topic question to discuss with friends and we'll vote on the most popular one. Let's enjoy the pleasant weather on the 7th floor Rooftop Terrace of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation. Inspired by Christopher and Cecilia Phillips, founders of Socrates Cafe. https://youtu.be/3JKrJGIe4d0 (3 minutes)

Let's explore the intersection of decision-making, cognitive biases, and social influences on behavior. Whether you are new in town or a seasoned intellectual looking for stimulating discussions, this event is for those interested in learning and connecting with like-minded individuals.

We will be using the Socratic method developed by Christopher Phillips & Cecilia Chapa Phillips, this format encourages curiosity and deep exploration of complex ideas. Participants will propose questions, which will be voted on to determine the topic question for discussion.

Topic Ideas or Suggest Your Own:

Truth and Deception:
- In an era of misinformation, what strategies can we employ to become more adept at separating fact from fiction?
- Are there ever situations where deception is not only acceptable but also necessary for the greater good? If so, what are the ethical boundaries?

Happiness and Fulfillment:
- Is happiness a fleeting desire or an essential need that drives our lives? What does it truly mean to be happy?
- How do we define and pursue genuine happiness in a world filled with distractions and superficial pleasures?

Moral Frameworks:
- If you could design the ultimate moral system, what principles would it be based on, and why would it be superior to existing ones?
- How do different moral systems influence our decisions and shape society, and which one do you believe is the most effective in promoting a just and harmonious world?

Love and Connection:
- What does the concept of a "soulmate" mean in today's world, and how has the idea evolved over time?
- Is the idea of a soulmate a romantic ideal or a realistic expectation, and what role does it play in modern relationships?

Family Dynamics:
- How have the traditional notions of family changed, and what does the modern family look like in today's society?
- What are the challenges and benefits of the evolving family structures, and how do they impact individuals and communities?

Changing Wisdom:
- Which pieces of conventional wisdom have become outdated or irrelevant in our rapidly changing world, and what new insights should replace them?
- How can we discern which traditional beliefs are timeless and which are in need of revision or replacement?

Wealth and Prosperity:
- What does wealth truly mean beyond just financial abundance, and how can it be created in a way that benefits both individuals and society as a whole?
- How do different cultures and societies define and pursue wealth, and what can we learn from their approaches?

Education Reform:
- How can we redesign the traditional education system to better prepare students for the current challenges and opportunities?
- What are the most innovative and effective education reform initiatives being implemented around the world, and what can we learn from them?

Let’s enjoy the beautiful weather together! Come ready to connect, learn, and engage in thought-provoking discussions!