Let's Socialise... Philosophers' Community Project

Note: Covid-19 restrictions will apply. Please read and follow the government guidelines

This meetup series is about creating a philosophical community (especially as a result of regular attendees) and therefore will likely add richness to philosophical interaction here and at other meetups (where overlap occurs).

Whilst philosophical dialectics are definitely encouraged, I believe sharing our backgrounds/story/personal life with each other can promote a stronger sense of social connections than pure philosophical exchanges.

• Important: this group encourages open and honest conversations, however, personal information and views that identify a person are to stay within the group (Chatham House rules), unless with explicit consent from the relevant attendee(s). Furthermore, anti-social/disruptive behavior that weakens the community group is not welcome (e.g. bullying) *

It is important to note that I don’t plan for this group to be a guaranteed intellectual safe space. I have the view that free speech is essential in order to help people navigate their way in life (I value intellectual freedom). Having said that, I do hope for the group/community to be a friendly space.

Everything in this meetup series is voluntary, it is up to individuals how much they wish to interact/engage in the community.

Ice breaker topics:

What makes a good philosophical community?

What three words would you use to describe yourself?

What do you think is one of the most important life lessons to have learned?

Is free will real or just an illusion?

Where does your self-worth come from?

Does a person’s name influence the person they become?

How long will you be remembered after you die?

Can human nature be changed? Should it be changed?

What two questions would you ask to get the most information about who a person truly is?

What in life is truly objective and not subjective?

How do you define consciousness?

Can rational thought exist without language?

Summary: social meetup for philosophers (lovers of wisdom), Chatham House rules, voluntary, free speech, getting to know each other (especially regulars), no strict philosophical topic (open/casual), community.

The format of the meetup is casual/relaxed. We can talk as one big group (depending on numbers) if we want or multiple smaller table-based groups; it's up to attendees.

Thanks for reading and hopefully see you soon.