What we’re about
This is a group for people who like to meet for a couple of hours in a relaxed atmosphere and talk (or just listen) about big ideas, mostly by asking questions and refining them. It is free, open for everyone and follows the common format of Socrates Cafes around the world. But most important it is just fun… of course, for those who actually enjoy intelligent conversations and can’t live without examining reality, society and life. The idea is to bring philosophy to the masses, to start socializing and form community of inquiry in process. This is exactly what Socrates-style of philosophy is about, but in practical terms it simply means a discussion group with emphases on questions, not the answers (which makes it different from university philosophy courses, self-help books and political/religious/new age movements). There are no speakers, no gurus, no high-minded monologues, no arrogant “experts” with indecipherable jargon and monopoly on right answers, no homework and no preparation. It is just and exchange of opinions on selected topic by simple (and not so simple :-) people. It is inherently democratic place where your opinion is on equal terms with the ones expressed by Nietzsche, Socrates or a guy around the corner… There is a moderator to channel conversation, loosely defined and very simple Socratic method of inquiry to guide participants and some basic rules: courtesy to others, observance of a topic of discussion and avoidance of any type of proselytism ). For more information read article about Socrates Café in "Ottawa Citizen" and FAQ on About page at http://www.meetup.com/ottawa-socrates-cafe/...
Upcoming events
1
What is Generosity?
The Royal Oak - Bank at Gloucester, 188 Bank St, Ottawa, ON, CAPlease arrive at 6:45pm to order your drinks/food so that we can start the event at 7pm with minimum interruption. Thank you.
Generosity is often understood as the act of giving through our time, resources, or acts of kindness. At a deeper level, it is not just about what we give, but how we connect with others and the world by sharing what we have.
In today’s world, generosity can feel complicated. We celebrate it as a virtue, yet our society often rewards competition, self-interest, and efficiency over empathy and selflessness. Generosity can sometimes seem naïve or risky, leaving us vulnerable to being taken advantage of. And yet, it remains one of the clearest signs of humanity’s higher nature, a bridge that brings people closer together.
People express generosity in many ways. Some give freely of their time or material wealth, while others offer emotional generosity through patience, forgiveness, or understanding. True generosity is not measured by how much we give, but by the spirit in which we give it. It invites us to see others not as rivals or threats, but as fellow human beings worthy of compassion and trust.
Still, generosity is not always easy. It varies across relationships and circumstances. Between family members, generosity shows up in everyday acts of care and support. Among friends or colleagues, it may require discernment to keep it balanced and mutual. In some situations, generosity can be misunderstood or exploited. This is why wisdom must accompany kindness. Without it, generosity can become self-erasing rather than life-giving.
To explore this nuanced reality of generosity, let’s reflect together:
- What is generosity to you? Is it a virtue?
- Are people naturally generous, or do we learn generosity through experience and culture?
- Why are some people more inclined to give selflessly than others?
- Can generosity exist without some form of self-interest?
- What are the risks of being generous in modern life?
- How does generosity differ across relationships, such as family, friendship, or professional settings?
- When does generosity cross into self-sacrifice or imbalance?
- Why might generosity be essential for genuine truth and connection?
- How can we cultivate a generous spirit in everyday life?
Pre-discussion readings:
https://news.gallup.com/opinion/gallup/657998/kinder-world-happier-one.aspxhttps://www.columbiadoctors.org/news/generosity-good-your-health
https://slate.com/technology/2025/03/generosity-gifts-backfire-downside-relationships.html
Warmly,
Eunjin17 attendees
Past events
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