Philosophy Meetup in Riga - EX LIBRIS (Veldze) 17:00 - 18:30 (English)

Do you have a hunger for deeper understanding of yourself and the world? Do you value deep, honest and respectful dialogue?
If yes, then this meetup will be very interesting for you.

WHAT IS A MEETUP ABOUT?

At every meetup we have a discussion using Socratic method:
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Socratic_method].

We ask, answer and discuss questions and ideas to stimulate critical thinking and to widen our perspectives with new concepts and thoughts.
The main purpose of these meetups is to enrich ourselves with the perspectives of others, not to convince others about our own perspectives.
Our meetups are about our own philosophies of life and not necessarily what the great philosophers and academics have said or written. It is not a debating club or a platform for proselytizing. Instead, we place the emphasis on questioning, open mindedness and challenging our own assumptions while listening to and respecting the views shared by others.

A Socrates Café meetup is considered a success when participants leave a discussion with many more questions than they had at the beginning.

WHAT TOPIC IS DISCUSSED AT THE MEETUP?

Participants suggest topics at the beginning of each meeting. We then vote and choose that event's most popular topic for discussion. No academic training in philosophy necessary; just enthusiasm for exchanging ideas and points of view.
Some examples of subjects chosen on previous meetups:

• What ideals are worth dying for?
• Why are we never satisfied?
• Why is it that human beings know that the society is going wrong, leaders are well informed about it and things continue as is?
• Is identity necessary?
• How can it be that people in democratic societies are so obsessed with power? (Desire to be different, better, stronger than others)
• What is friendship?

WHO PARTICIPATES AT THIS MEETUP?

Anybody is more than welcome to join our meetups. Our events gather people from different backgrounds, different cultures, while no philosophical background is mandatory.
Our usual participants are people that have a hunger for deeper understanding of themselves and the world. People that value deep, honest and respectful dialogue.

The inspiration for Socrates Cafe originates with the book of the same name, written by the philosopher Christopher Phillips. (Socrates Cafe: A Fresh Taste of Philosophy, 2002). Phillips felt that the Socratic method of dialogue and discussion should be practiced not just in academic settings, but among everyday people interested in examining deep questions together. Hundreds of Socrates Cafe groups now exist around the world. To learn more, visit [https://socratescafe.com].

Our rules:

1. Please be on time
   It is not fair on other punctual participants and late comers can affect the team dynamics. Coming on time helps with proper introductions, understanding rules, and won't make things awkward.
2. Please be respectful
   This is non negotiable. Difference of opinion is welcome, disrespect is not. Homophobia, sexism, racism, name calling, bullying, shouting, etc. will not be tolerated. The discretion lies solely with the host.
3. Please show up
   If you RSVP, please show up. If you decide to not show up, please withdraw your RSVP 24 hours in advance. There are people in the waiting list that don't get a chance otherwise and that is not fair to the ones genuinely wanting to attend.
4. Please order something at the cafe and show them support
   They allow us to conduct these meetups at their venue.

A note from the organizer:

Hello to all current, future and past members <3

My name is Oleksii. I’m the founder of this group and the organizer of Socrates Cafe Riga. I’d like to share a few things about how this group works, so we all have the same expectations.

1. This is a private initiative. I voluntarily follow the Socrates Cafe concept and its guidelines, but this group is not a formal organization or a collective. I may change the group, the events, or the format at any time. If I make significant changes, I’ll announce them in advance, so you can decide whether the group is still right for you.
2. The events are free, and I cover the costs. I pay the Meetup organizer subscription myself, which is several hundred euros a year, and I don’t charge participants anything. Because I run and fund the group, final decisions are mine.
3. Mutual respect. By joining the events, you acknowledge how the group works and agree to treat each other, and the organizer, with respect.

Frequently asked questions:

• Many of us would like a different day, time, place or frequency. Shouldn’t the majority decide?

The schedule and location are set by the organizer. If you’d prefer different conditions, you’re welcome to organize your own events.

• The limit is 15 people. Can you split into several groups so more people can join?

My preference is to keep one group of up to 15 participants at a time. This may change if I find it suitable, but it’s my decision to make.

• I’d prefer a more free-flowing debate, where I can jump in and respond without waiting for my turn.

In this group, we take turns speaking. This is the format I’ve chosen, and it’s how our events work. If it doesn’t suit you, that’s completely fine, but please don’t join expecting it to change.

• Where to share feedback

At every event there’s time set aside for thoughts and feedback. That’s the right place to share your ideas. I’ll listen to everyone, and I may accept, adapt or decline suggestions.

Thank you for reading, and see you at the next Socrates Cafe!