Can Emergence Explain the World — or Do We Need Something More?

In our last session, we explored how complexity gives rise to new patterns and properties — the idea that “more is different.”

But can emergence really explain the world? Or does it leave something out — things like agency, free will, creativity, consciousness, or meaning itself?

This session begins with a short framing talk and recap to give everyone a shared starting point, whether or not you attended the previous event. From there, we’ll open into a long-form discussion exploring where emergence succeeds, where it struggles, and what might still lie beyond it — from physics and biology to mind and culture.

All are welcome — no background in the topics is required, just curiosity and a willingness to think together.

Format
• Short framing talk and recap (10–15 min)
• Open discussion and shared inquiry (≈90 min)
• Closing reflections and next topics (10–15 min)