What we’re about
This group has candid and insightful discussions on current topics and issues with an emphasis on critical thinking and rational, evidence-based decision-making. Per Wikipedia: "Critical thinking is the analysis of available facts, evidence, observations, and arguments to form a judgment. The subject is complex; several different definitions exist, which generally include the rational, skeptical, and unbiased analysis or evaluation of factual evidence."
We will also discuss ancient and modern philosophy topics in one meeting a month with discussions as to their current usefulness and how they survive a critical thinking analysis.
We are passionate about a wide range of subjects, including philosophy, science, epistemology, social issues, morality, and, obviously, pragmatic skepticism.
Are you someone who has a thick skin and enjoys having your beliefs and biases challenged? Do you have a rational mind and a thirst for learning new things? Do you believe that doubt is valuable, that not knowing all the answers is something which drives us to explore the world? Are you willing to accept convincing evidence over wild speculation? Do you possess a curiosity which keeps you expanding your understanding of yourself and reality? If so, this is the group for you.
Our group members come from many backgrounds and hold a diversity of beliefs on many issues. Most are atheists or non-religious, and we do tend to be liberal / progressive on many issues. Most of us are humanists and wish to reduce the harm we see in the world. But those are not universal or required traits. So long as you bring to the table patience, polite debate, and challenging ideas, you might enjoy joining us!
We meet regularly for Sunday morning brunches, Wednesday dinners, and trivia nights. Many of our meetings are discussions where attendees talk about important issues of the day. Some of the topics we've covered over the years include choosing authorities and sources, gun control, alternative medical treatments, organic crops, space exploration, public education, and the economics of Star Trek, just to name a few.
What we are not, is a conspiracy theory group. From time to time a conspiracy theorist shows up. If you do, expect to be asked for concrete evidence of such theories.
The group believes in and trusts science, we believe in Vaccines and require anyone that attends an indoor meetup with us to have one.