What has Progress ever given us?

What has progress ever given us?

“Our civilization is characterized by the word ‘progress’. Progress is its form rather than making progress one of its features.” Ludwig Wittgenstein

When thinking about ideas and the thinkers that produce them we often make implicit assumptions about the benefits of the progress that these ideas contribute to. What kinds of progress do we want or need? Can all progress be sustainable? Is progress always beneficial? Is progress just the evolution of complex systems? Should we privilege one state of such a system over another?

In this session we will be discussing these questions and related topics including a brief exercise to imagine ourselves in different times and in different cultures.

Supporting Video Links:
John Gray on progress
Rupert Read on Progress and Wittgenstein
Monk debate on progress [Long]

Interesting background reading:
[If we don't rethink the concept of progress, it could point society toward oblivion - Macleans.ca](https://macleans.ca/facebook-instant-articles/if-we-dont-rethink-the-concept-of-progress-it-could-point-society-toward-oblivion/)
Do we need a better understanding of 'progress'?
Is 'Progress' Good for Humanity? - The Atlantic
When is Progress Really Progress? | Absolute Engagement Blog
Do Human Progress Trends Justify the Status Quo?
Kate Soper – The growth agenda is no longer feasible. What is the alternative?

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Anyone can attend this session. No experience in philosophy or knowledge of the subject is required in advance. Just come along and enjoy. Our events use the the 4Cs of community philosophy:

• Caring for others, making space for their contributions
• Collaborating to get a better mutual understanding rather than scoring points
• Critically assessing what we say, clarifying what is meant and asking what reasons support assertions
• Creatively coming up with alternative perspectives, rather than dogmatically sticking to our initial positions

We welcome everyone of a wide range of ages, social and educational backgrounds etc. Don't worry if you don't have a qualification in philosophy - almost no-one does. Occasionally, attendees will be asked to watch, read or listen to a short piece of material in advance of the session (as the 'stimulus' for discussion), but this will be minimal and will be made clear in the description of the session.

We ask for donations of £1 per session from those who can afford to pay to cover the costs of the Meetup subscription. First timers are exempt. Don't feel obliged to pay if you can't afford it - or pay less. Feel free to put £5 to cover five sessions or however you want to donate - this is left entirely up to you.