Do We Have an Ingrained Religious Instinct?

Is religiosity a feature, not a bug? Some will say that religious tradition is one of humanity's greatest inventions, powerful enough to align our values and build cohesion. Others will argue that while it helped us survive and expand, it limits us today.

But "religiosity" does not have to relate to established organized religion. We tend to deify and idealize many things, political and corporate leaders, concepts, and even ourselves!

What exactly does it mean to be "religious" or faithful? Do we choose the system that works best for us? Are people replacing it with something else in modern times?

We will engage in a dialectical guided discussion. Please see the agenda and rules of discussion below:

Agenda
Arrive & Gather (15-20 min)
Icebreaker Activity (10 min)
Discussion Activities (45-60 min)

• How do we define "religious"?
• Is religion still what it once was?
• How has humanity's relationship changed with religion over time? Is this change homogeneous throughout the globe?
• Do we believe because we want to or because we need to?
• Are religion-deniers just as fervent in their own belief in something else?
• How is tech redefining our faith?

Hard Stop on Discussion by Scheduled End Time
Hangout & Connect (Optional)

Rules of Discussion

• Listen actively.
• Speak to the whole group, not just the host.
• Economy of Words: Learn how to express one idea at a time, concisely. Avoid 10-minute monologues!
• Watch your speaking inertia. Speaking is a two-way activity; yes, you should be watching and listening to others even as you speak.
• We want organic conversational, discussion flow.
  Understand good interruptions, those that enhance points being made or seek clarity, not debunk or attack.
• If you receive a good interruption, allow it!
• You’re not here to change minds. You’re here to learn how your own mind might be changed!
• Challenge ideas, not the person. What you say can be questioned or criticized. And you have the right to do the same with anyone else. (If you don’t believe your points can withstand scrutiny, don’t offer it.)
• Beware of absolute statements: "Always, never, forever, everyone..."
• Watch for broad blame, labels or abstract assumptions: “It’s all women’s fault.” “It’s all capitalism’s fault.” "Diversity is the problem/solution." “It’s obvious we have no freedom here.” “Everyone knows illegals are using up all of our social benefits.” "They're just racists..." "Because he/she/they are stupid..."

Where to Find Us
We will set up at one or more tables inside. Look for our sign! Please be aware that parking may be a little tight due to the construction immediately next door to Civil Pour, but that has no impact on the cafe interior itself.

About the Venue
Arwa offers a full menu of coffee, tea, matcha and lemonade as well as a variety of sweet and savory pastries. I recommend the "Adeni" tea, which is like an Arab rendition of indian chai. I expect us to land a table near the front entry.

About Nuanced Discussions
See our main group page! Dialectical discussion, not debate.

DISCLAIMER
We are NOT affiliated with any business, religious, or spiritual organizations. Our objective is to facilitate quality dialectical discussion and activities with responsible adults. We do NOT support MLM, paid mentorship/life coaching, network marketing, real-estate/entrepreneurial education, or related exploitative schemes. Please respect our age boundaries (YOB 1980+).