What we’re about
Studio 42 is where we have moving conversations about controversial and philosophical subjects. Are you passionate about exploring the nuances of consequential topics and engaging in constructive and meaningful dialogue? Our purpose is to practice the skill of discussing challenging topics while improving our active listening, critical thinking, empathy, persuasion, public speaking and dispute resolution skills.
Join us to connect with thoughtful people and immerse yourself in discussions that challenge your perspectives and expand your understanding of the world. Let’s enjoy learning together while making meaningful connections through the art of thoughtful conversation!
Discussions are moderated to ensure respectful exchange and to give everyone an equal opportunity to speak. You are welcome to join regardless of your political views, knowledge level or skill level. Participation is optional; you can speak or just listen in.
VALUES
During our events, we pursue the following values:
Critical Thinking
Each conversation provides an opportunity to delve deeply into complex topics, challenge your own assumptions, and develop a more nuanced perspective. By engaging in these dialogues, we aim to cultivate a space where members can enhance their analytical skills and embrace thoughtful reflection, all while contributing to a richer and more informed understanding of the world.
Persuasion
We seek to present our opinions in a way that is understandable, sympathetic, engaging, entertaining and persuasive. Engaging in these dialogues offers a unique opportunity to articulate your viewpoints, consider alternative perspectives, and enhance your ability to communicate effectively.
Joy
Each conversation is a chance to enjoy meaningful exchanges that bring us closer together and enhance our collective understanding. We see our events as a way to share joy, humour, fascination, and human connection.
GUIDELINES
This is a dialogue, not a debate
Please come in the spirit of sharing your opinion, listening thoughtfully to others, and doing your part to create a friendly and inquisitive atmosphere. This is not a debate where opposing sides argue and try to win points. This is a dialogue where encourage listening, reflection, and collaborative exploration of the topic.
This is not a science Meetup
We are here discuss philosophical concepts, opinions, perspectives and values. We will not debate about the scientific consensus on empirical matters like climate change, the effectiveness of vaccines, or the implications of quantum mechanics, to name a few examples.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION
We are dedicated to fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. We appreciate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive space for people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.
NAME AND PRONOUN PREFERENCES
If you have specific pronoun preferences or any other requests to help ensure that you feel comfortable and respected, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the event organizer. Your needs and preferences are important to us, and we want to make sure our gatherings are supportive and inclusive for all attendees.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Discussion: The Sin of Empathy4671 Rue Berri, Montréal, QC
* Shoes-Off Venue * *
This venue requires that you remove your outdoor footwear on arrival.* * Feel free to bring food or drinks * *
* * Participation is optional - you can join us to speak or to listen * *Elon Musk said that empathy is the fundamental weakness of Western civilization. When Bishop Mariann Budde officiated over President Trump's inaugural prayer service, she asked him to "have mercy upon the people of our country who are scared now", many Republicans criticized for for her remarks, most notably Pastor Ben Garrett who said in response, "Do not commit the sin of empathy. This snake is God's enemy and yours too. She hates God and His people. You need to properly hate in response."
Caring about others is officially a political (read politicized) issue. Or maybe it's that one group believes in caring generally for others on a large scale, while the other group believes that care and empathy is something you do specifically on smaller scales within your own family and community. Or maybe that's just a convenient excuse to practise cruelty.
Do you believe that we have a duty or responsibility to care for the less fortunate around us? Or is that a naive liberal delusion? Does everyone deserve basic dignity, or is it something you must take for yourself? Are we moving on from the era of empathy?
Join us for fun, friendly and substantive discussion about the important topics of the day.
How it Works
Everyone will be invited to share their opinion, share relevant facts and reasoning, and respond to the views of others.Our moderator will ensure that everyone has equal opportunity to speak and that dialogue will be kept respectful. All viewpoints are welcome. After the event, you are invited to stay for friendly, informal discussion if you wish.
Name and Pronoun Preferences
If you have specific pronoun preferences or any other requests to help ensure that you feel comfortable and respected, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the event organizer. Your needs and preferences are important to us, and we want to make sure our gatherings are supportive and inclusive for all attendees.Aren't you worried about having an event with 50+ people?!?
No because there will not be 50 people at the event. On Meetup, many attendees cancel at the last minute, and many are no-shows who skip the event without cancelling. I set the RSVP limit to 55 people, I reduce that limit to 45 in the last two days before the event, and then 20-30 people will actually attend.This allows us to hit our attendance target of 15-30 people, and it ensures that attendees have their spot guaranteed weeks in advance. This makes the guest count inaccurate, but it's the simplest way to provide you a reliable and positive RSVP experience.
Suggested Reading
Transcript of Bishop Budde's SermonIdeals
Please read the Studio 42 Ideals before attending the event:
http://stu42.co/idealsAdmission
Admission is free. We accept donations to help fund our events.Latecomers
Latecomers are welcome but we start promptly at 6:05pm so if you arrive late, you will miss out! - Discussion: The Unraveling Social Fabric4671 Rue Berri, Montréal, QC
* Shoes-Off Venue * *
This venue requires that you remove your outdoor footwear on arrival.* * Feel free to bring food or drinks * *
* * Participation is optional - you can join us to speak or to listen * *Do you feel as if our society is coming apart? Whether by polarization, economic uncertainty, or changing social norms, it seems that we can't agree on direction, and can't resolve our political differences. Do you believe that our social fabric is unraveling? How, and why?
Join us for fun, friendly and substantive discussion about the important topics of the day.
How it Works
Everyone will be invited to share their opinion, share relevant facts and reasoning, and respond to the views of others.Our moderator will ensure that everyone has equal opportunity to speak and that dialogue will be kept respectful. All viewpoints are welcome. After the event, you are invited to stay for friendly, informal discussion if you wish.
Name and Pronoun Preferences
If you have specific pronoun preferences or any other requests to help ensure that you feel comfortable and respected, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the event organizer. Your needs and preferences are important to us, and we want to make sure our gatherings are supportive and inclusive for all attendees.Aren't you worried about having an event with 50+ people?!?
No because there will not be 50 people at the event. On Meetup, many attendees cancel at the last minute, and many are no-shows who skip the event without cancelling. I set the RSVP limit to 55 people, I reduce that limit to 45 in the last two days before the event, and then 20-30 people will actually attend.This allows us to hit our attendance target of 15-30 people, and it ensures that attendees have their spot guaranteed weeks in advance. This makes the guest count inaccurate, but it's the simplest way to provide you a reliable and positive RSVP experience.
Suggested Reading
Any suggestions?Ideals
Please read the Studio 42 Ideals before attending the event:
http://stu42.co/idealsAdmission
Admission is free. We accept donations to help fund our events.Latecomers
Latecomers are welcome but we start promptly at 6:05pm so if you arrive late, you will miss out! - Wandering Minds: A Philosophical Walk Along the CanalThe Terrasse St-Ambroise, Montréal, QC
Join us for an evening where curiosity leads the way...literally!
Wandering Minds is part walking tour, part pub crawl, and all about big questions and great company.
We’ll stroll between a few cozy bars, pausing along the way for philosophical conversation starters designed to spark insight, laughter, and maybe a little debate. Whether you're a seasoned thinker or just philosophically curious, you'll find a welcoming group ready to wander through questions of existence, ethics, consciousness, and the meaning of it all.
No lectures. No wrong answers. Just a moving exploration of ideas, with a pint or cocktail in hand.
The Journey
We'll enjoy a beautiful and thoughtful sunset walk along the Lachine Canal, beginning at Terrasse Saint Ambroise.
Total distance: 2.7km
The Path1. Terrasse Saint Ambroise
"It’s the spot to discover the great variety of McAuslan beers and products. What’s better than getting together with friends and family around fresh beer, food and beautiful scenery!"
Drinks: Beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options.
Food is available.
https://mcauslan.com/en/terrasse/2. Messorem
"Messorem Bracitorium Inc. is an industrial microbrewery project with a tasting room, which specializes in the brewing and design of IPA beers, sour beers, and aged beers in barrels."
Drinks: Beer, and non-alcoholic options.
Food is available.
https://messorem.co/bieres/3. Memento
"Memento is a Montreal microbrewery. Inspired by geek culture, old-school cartoons, video games, and comic books, Memento presents a vibrant mix of activities, craft beer, organic wine, spirits, funky cocktails and just old-school fun."
Drinks: Beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options.
Food is available.
https://www.brasseriememento.com/en/brewery-in-montrealConversation Starters
Can't think of a topic to get the conversation started? Don't worry; everyone will receive a set of thoughtful and/or playful philosophical questions to break the ice and kickstart some lively, meaningful discussion.FAQ
Do I need to know a lot about philosophy to come?
Not at all! Whether you're a philosophy grad, a podcast junkie, or just someone who loves deep (or absurd) conversations over drinks, you’re welcome here. The vibe is smart but relaxed — no pop quizzes, just good dialogue.Can I come alone?
Absolutely! Many attendees come solo, and we’ve designed the conversation starters to make it easy and fun to meet new people. You won’t be left standing awkwardly with your drink, unless you're pondering the void, in which case, carry on.Is there a dress code?
Smart casual works great. Think: something you’d wear to a stylish dinner with interesting strangers. No tuxedos or togas required — unless that’s your thing.Is the event LGBTQ+ inclusive?
Yes. We’re committed to creating a space where everyone feels safe, seen, and respected, no matter how they identify.Admission
FreeLatecomers
Latecomers are welcome but you we will be walking between different bars so you might need to message the host to be sure you arrive at the correct location.Inclusion
Studio 42 is committed to creating a welcoming and safe space for everyone. We celebrate diversity across all ages, ethnicities, cultures, religions, sexual orientations, and gender identities. If you have specific pronoun preferences or accessibility needs, please contact the event organizer—we want everyone to feel respected and supported.
