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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Check out brotherhood events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the brotherhood events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

Absolutely! Find brotherhood events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.

Brotherhood Events Today

Join in-person Brotherhood events happening right now

🎲 After Dark at the Guild: Blackfyr Game Night Extravaganza!
🎲 After Dark at the Guild: Blackfyr Game Night Extravaganza!
Step into the Guild Hall for an evening of strategy, laughter, and meaningful connections. **The Blackfyr Guild Game Night** is more than just board games — it’s a curated social experience designed for people who enjoy good conversation, sharp minds, and relaxed competition. Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or just here to unwind after a long week, you’ll find a welcoming table, engaging games, and like-minded individuals who value quality interactions over noise. For event updates, venue notes, future game nights, and upcoming Blackfyr Guild gatherings, please join our WhatsApp and Instagram community: **Whatsapp:** https://chat.whatsapp.com/CMGVetRA5WJ1ad2DaSC9Kk **Instagram** https://www.instagram.com/theblackfyrguild/ **What to expect:** * A curated selection of board & card games (all levels welcome) * Friendly hosts to explain rules and get games moving * Natural conversations — no forced networking * A calm, premium atmosphere with great people Come solo or bring a friend. Sit, play, connect. This is how communities are built — one table at a time.
Dubai Syndicate · Fahidi Chapter — Free Entry
Dubai Syndicate · Fahidi Chapter — Free Entry
📣 **Meetup Event Downtown Chapter)** **🏷️ Title:** *Dubai Syndicate · Fahidi Chapter (Free Entry)* RSVP https://wa.me/971557133786?text=Hello%20Sir%2FMam%2C%20I%20am%20%5BYour%20Name%5D%2C%20Owner%2FDecision%20Maker%20of%20%5BYour%20Company%5D.%20I%E2%80%99d%20like%20to%20join%20Dubai%20Syndicate%20to%20network%20with%20other%20business%20owners%2C%20share%20leads%20and%20references%2C%20and%20help%20one%20another%C2%A0grow%C2%A0together. www.dubaisyndicate.ae **📍 When & Where** ⏰ **Time:** **4.30 PM – 7:00 PM** *(🚪 doors open **4:30 PM** — check-in & early intros)* 🏢 **Venue:** VB World Restaurant, Al Fahidi ( Sharaf DG ) 🗺️ **Google Maps:** https://maps.app.goo.gl/L14T6yjjgPdF1D5W7 **👥 Who:** Entrepreneurs • Investors • Deal-makers • Service Providers **✨ Why come ):** ✅ **Real intros, not speed networking** — you’ll leave **knowing everyone** in the room. 🤝 **Peer introductions** — returning members introduce people they already know; 🌟 **new attendees** introduce themselves. 🎯 **Warm, curated connections** — meet partners, clients, and collaborators. **🧭 Flow** 🕟 **4:30–5:00** — Doors open, check-in, name tags 🕔 **5:00–5:30** — Peer introductions + new attendee intros *(Offer & Ask)* 🔗 **5:30–6:45** — Open networking & curated matches 📝 **6:45–7:00** — Wrap-ups & next steps **🧾 Bring:** 🪪 Business cards • ✍️ 1 clear **Offer** • 🎯 1 clear **Ask** **👔 Dress:** Smart casual **💸 Fees:** **Free entry** *(☕🍵🥤🍽️ Buy your own tea/coffee/Drinks /Food and support venue providers)* **📝 RSVP ( Compulsory ):** 🟢 On Meetup: tap **Attend** 💬 Or in WhatsApp Community: post **“ATTENDING – Name \| Company \| Offer \| Ask”** **📲 Stay connected (always include these):** 👉 **WhatsApp Community:** https://wa.me/971557133786 📸 **Instagram:** [https://www.instagram.com/dubaisyndicate](https://www.instagram.com/dubaisyndicateoffical) **⚖️ House rules:** 🤝 Give-first • 🚫 No hard selling • 🔒 Share contacts only with consent
Mafia Party Game On Yacht 🎭🎭🛥
Mafia Party Game On Yacht 🎭🎭🛥
For the first time ever Mafia Party Game on a Yacht. Join us for an amazing Mafia party game night ( multiple rounds ) on a yacht. Starting: at 7pm till late night. location: Dubai creek Harbour marina. Yacht is parked all night and not going to move so you can arrive at your leisure. Complimentary Water / Softdrink & snacks. Entrance fee: 55 AED Contact: 058 199 2288 ( Ramin ) WhatsApp group link : https://chat.whatsapp.com/ExhRxxpUtNqE3eNgYfhEQR?mode=wwt
Brew & Bond: Where coffee sparks new connections
Brew & Bond: Where coffee sparks new connections
Let's Step away from screens and step into real conversations. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​We’re hosting a **special coffee meetup** to meet new people, spark genuine connections, and share laughter in an **elegant café setting** 🌿🎶 **​Imagine this 👇** * ​A cozy evening with soft music playing in the background. * ​An elegant café atmosphere with warm lighting and stylish décor. * ​Coffee, tea, or your favorite drink in hand. * ​A room full of open-minded, amazing people ready to connect. It’s about **meeting new friends**, enjoying great vibes, and discovering the magic of spontaneous connection. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​Because sometimes, all it takes is a cup of coffee to turn strangers into friends. 💫 **​✨ Expect the unexpected:** * ​Fun conversation starters that keep things flowing. * ​Stories from people you never imagined you’d meet. * ​Surprising laughter that carries long after the night is over. ​So grab your favorite drink, take a seat, and let the conversations flow. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Coffee 😊
Twin Hearts Group Meditation @ MLPHC (Every Thursday Morning)
Twin Hearts Group Meditation @ MLPHC (Every Thursday Morning)
**Twin Heart Meditation: A Guide to Inner Peace and Healing** Twin Heart Meditation is a unique and powerful form of guided meditation that combines the practice of loving-kindness, self-healing, and energy healing. This meditation focuses on activating and balancing the heart and crown chakras. The goal is to create a sense of inner peace, promote emotional well-being, and help practitioners connect with their higher selves and the universal energy around them. **Few Benefits of Twin Heart Meditation :** * Greater Happiness and a Sharper Mind * Reduced stress, anxiety and depression * Improve your relationships * Improved health Contact: **054 994 3703** for more information
Sustainability professionals coffee meetup in Dubai.☕️
Sustainability professionals coffee meetup in Dubai.☕️
Welcome, Planetpreneurs! Whether you're a founder, a working professional in the ESG space, or dedicated to sustainability, this meetup is for you. Join us for a coffee, share your story, and build powerful connections. Let's network, inspire each other, and drive positive change together!
Thrilling Thursdays Badminton Games Dubai @Danube Sports World 8pm
Thrilling Thursdays Badminton Games Dubai @Danube Sports World 8pm
**It is a paid event. Charges 45aed for 2 hrs of the game per player.** # 🎯 Welcome to Badminton Lovers Dubai! **The World's Highest-rated badminton community** from the heart of Dubai \(⭐ 4\.9 ★ \| 4500\+ reviews\) – where fun\, fitness\, and friendship come together on court\! Whether you’re a **beginner eager to learn** or an **advanced player seeking competitive rallies**, you’ll enjoy: ✔ 2 hours of structured, mix-and-match doubles games ✔ Professional world-class courts at **Danube Sports World** ✔ A friendly, welcoming community of players of all levels *** ## ⭐ Why Join Us? ✔ Dubai’s **#1 rated sports & social group** ✔ Play with 6-7 players per court → **minimum waiting time** ✔ Separate courts for **advanced competitive matches** ✔ Beginner-friendly – guidance & support provided ✔ **Feather shuttles included** + limited rackets (first-come, first-serve) ✔ Exclusive **discounts at leading sports stores in Dubai** ✔ Social, fun, and a great way to meet new friends *** ## 📍 Event Details * ⏳ **Duration:** 2 hours of exciting badminton games * 🏸 **Venue:** Danube Sports World * 💵 **Fee:** 45 AED (includes feather shuttles) * 💳 **Payment:** Online (CareemPay/Bank Transfer – 0509001406). *Cash is only for approved regulars (+5 AED surcharge).* * 🔄 **System:** Mix-and-match doubles for maximum variety *** ## 📱 New Players – Important At the time of RSVP, please WhatsApp the organiser: 📲 0509001406 \| 0502480751 \(Waqsi\) https://wa.me/971509001406 *** ## 💰 Payment & Cancellation Policy * **RSVP = Commitment** * Your RSVP is your commitment to attend. Please honour it. * Your RSVP blocks a spot, and you are responsible for payment unless you cancel on time. **Payment** * Payment is required **immediately at the time of RSVP** to secure your spot. * If you RSVP but do not pay **and** do not cancel within the allowed time, you are still liable for the session fee. **Cancellation by Players** * ✅ Cancel **12+ hours before the event:** No charge. If already paid, the amount is credited towards a future session. * ❌ Cancel **less than 12 hours before** OR **No-show:** Full payment required, even if you have not yet paid. No credit/refund. **Unpaid RSVPs** * Unpaid RSVPs may be removed by organisers **before the 12-hour window.** * Within 12 hours of the event, all RSVPs (paid or unpaid) are treated as confirmed and subject to the cancellation/no-show policy. **Event Cancelled by Organisers** * If we cancel, you will receive a **full refund** or a **session credit** (your choice). **Non-Payment Consequences** * Players who fail to honour payment after a late cancellation or no-show may be restricted from RSVPing for future sessions until dues are cleared. *** ## 📸 Social Media Policy * Photos/videos may be used to promote badminton & our community * You can request removal in writing for future events * Past media cannot be deleted *** ## 👥 Guest Policy * Guests must be registered with **name & level** * RSVP holder is responsible for guest payment & cancellations *** ## 🏸 Safety Guidelines & Event Rules *(Badminton Lovers Dubai)* To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-organised experience for everyone, all participants are required to read and follow the guidelines below: *** ### 1️⃣ Personal Responsibility * All players participate **at their own risk**. * Please ensure you are **physically fit and medically able** to play badminton before joining the session. * Warm up properly and play within your personal limits. *** ### 2️⃣ On-Court Safety * Always be aware of **other players**, shuttle direction, and adjacent courts. * Avoid running into other courts or behind players during active rallies. * Stop play immediately if a shuttle or player enters your court unexpectedly. * Wear **appropriate non-marking sports shoes** to prevent slips and injuries. *** ### 3️⃣ Equipment & Attire * Use suitable badminton rackets and equipment in good condition. * Badminton Lovers Dubai is **not responsible** for any damage to personal equipment. *** ### 4️⃣ Personal Belongings * Players are fully responsible for their **own belongings**, including rackets, bags, wallets, phones, and valuables. * Please do not leave personal items unattended. * **The organisers are not liable** for any loss, theft, or damage to personal property. *** ### 5️⃣ Injuries & Medical Emergencies * In case of injury, please inform the organiser immediately. * First aid (if available at the venue) is provided as a courtesy only. * **The organisers, hosts, and venue are not liable** for any injuries, accidents, or medical conditions arising before, during, or after the event. *** ### 6️⃣ Conduct & Sportsmanship * Respect fellow players, organisers, and venue staff at all times. * Aggressive behaviour, unsafe play, or repeated rule violations may result in removal from the session without refund. * Follow organiser instructions regarding court rotation, timing, and player grouping. *** ### 7️⃣ Venue Rules * All participants must comply with the **venue’s rules and regulations**. * Any penalties imposed by the venue due to misconduct will be the responsibility of the individual involved. *** ### 8️⃣ Liability Disclaimer By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree that: * You voluntarily assume all risks associated with playing badminton. * **Badminton Lovers Dubai, its organisers, hosts, and volunteers are released from any liability**, claims, demands, or causes of action related to personal injury, loss, damage, or theft of belongings. ✅ Ready to Play? Click RSVP, send us a WhatsApp to confirm, and get ready to smash your way into Dubai’s most exciting badminton community!

Brotherhood Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Recharge, Reconnect and Breathe: A Mindful Evening For Men
Recharge, Reconnect and Breathe: A Mindful Evening For Men
Join Fran and Tj, for a transformative mindfulness evening designed exclusively for men seeking connection, clarity, and calm. In today’s fast paced world, carving out space to pause and reflect is more important than ever, especially for men navigating the pressures of work, relationships, and self-growth. This is a safe, judgment-free space where men of all ages and backgrounds, especially young professionals, can slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with themselves and others. Through guided restorative breathwork, gentle mindful movement, the grounding support of essential oils, heartfelt sharing circles, reflective inner work, and a ceremonial cacao experience thoughtfully prepared to support openness and presence, participants will have the opportunity to ground themselves, soften the mind, and connect more deeply within. Whether you’re new to mindfulness or deepening an existing practice, this evening is an invitation to show up authentically, build meaningful connections, and invest in your emotional and mental well-being. Come as you are. Leave feeling centred, seen, and supported **please inform the organisers with any concerns **medical/health/medication issues **allergies **please wear comfortable clothing **please bring yoga mat About the Facilitators: Fran and TJ bring depth, warmth, and lived experience to their work as facilitators and coaches. With a combined background of over 20 years in the fitness and coaching industry, they have supported thousands of people in cultivating stronger connections to themselves, their bodies, and their lives. Together, they have facilitated festivals, workshops, and retreats internationally, with a strong focus on self-development, mindfulness, inner connection, personal growth, and authentic relating. Their work blends grounded coaching, embodied practices, and real-world insight to create spaces that feel safe, inclusive, and deeply impactful. Fran and TJ share a passion for supporting the modern man in reconnecting with his authenticity, helping men show up with greater clarity, presence, and confidence in everyday life. Their approach is practical, compassionate, and rooted in genuine human connection. Come sit with us, take a breath, slow down, and join a space where you can show up just as you are, connect honestly, and leave feeling grounded, supported, and more like yourself.
Tarot and Tea
Tarot and Tea
This is your chance to get all your questions answered in 30 minutes for AED 50. First come, first served. Each one of you will be given a different time. Please arrive at the time given to you. Those on the waiting list can get a private 30-minute online session for AED 100. If you RSVP but don't show up, you will be banned from the group.
OSHO Group Meditation Evening: From Stillness to Dance
OSHO Group Meditation Evening: From Stillness to Dance
**You’re warmly invited to an evening of meditation, movement, and celebration.** Let’s come together to meditate, dance, and celebrate life in a shared space of presence and joy. Meditating in a group creates a powerful collective energy—deep, immersive, and profoundly uplifting. **Evening Flow:** * **15 minutes** to arrive, meet one another, connect, and feel inspired * A gentle **introduction to the meditation** * **1 hour of guided meditation**, held in collective silence * **15-minute tea and snack break** to relax and connect * An **OSHO discourse** to deepen understanding and awareness * **Celebration through music and dance**, allowing the energy to move freely and joyfully Come as you are. Let’s slow down, tune in, and celebrate life—together. 💛🕊️ **The fee is in AED (40 Dirham)** Meetup may display an approximate amount in your local currency.
Mathematical Minds - FREE
Mathematical Minds - FREE
The goal of this event is to foster mathematical thinking and generate the next generation of independent mathematicians. This event is divided into two segments: The first segment is a warm-up round in which we shall solve high school maths problems. Feel free to bring your own problems and books! You may also want to bring a scientific calculator. The second segment is an introduction to mathematical logic and proof-writing. The problems solved in this segment will be of a different nature. An online group will also be created for mathematical discussions and to keep a record of whatever was covered. This is essential as mathematics is a discipline that continually builds upon the knowledge accumulated so far. Make sure to bring pens and a notebook (or plenty of A4 paper, whichever you prefer).
FREE ENGLISH SPEAKING CLUB
FREE ENGLISH SPEAKING CLUB
Welcome to Camelot Language School! Our speaking club is a fun, friendly place where everyone feels comfortable speaking and learning together 😊 You’ll practice real conversations, make new friends, and improve your English naturally with a native speaker guiding you along the way. No pressure, just support, laughter, and great conversations. **Join us** and come enjoy learning with us!
Unlocking the Power of the Mind: Self-exploration
Unlocking the Power of the Mind: Self-exploration
In this meetup group, we’ll start with brief guided hypnotherapy sessions—helping you experience gentle relaxation and inner focus. Afterward, we’ll dive into discussions—breaking down how hypnotherapy works, sharing personal insights, and exploring ways to harness the subconscious for self-improvement. Whether you’re here to explore relaxation techniques, understand how the mind works, or just connect with others on this journey, you’ll find a welcoming, insightful space to learn and grow! “We’ll begin with a short guided hypnotherapy relaxation to experience calm focus. Afterward, we’ll unpack how hypnotherapy suggestions work to create positive change. We’ll discuss practical applications—like easing stress, boosting confidence, and shifting habits—and share reflections. 1. We’ll start with a brief introduction to set the tone and get everyone comfortable. 2. Next, we’ll guide you through a short hypnotherapy relaxation session to experience it firsthand. 3. After the session, we’ll break down how it works—covering how suggestions influence the subconscious mind. 4. We’ll discuss practical uses—like reducing stress, boosting confidence, or shifting habits. 5. Finally, we’ll open up for group reflections and Q&A, giving you a chance to share insights and ask questions. The session fee is 100 AED per person, and we’ll also have a certified hypnotherapist guiding the experience. You’ll get to explore real hypnotherapy techniques and connect deeply with your inner potential! “If you have any questions or would like to reserve your spot, you’re welcome to reach out at +971 553253516. We’re happy to help!” Whatsup link https://chat.whatsapp.com/K0fQ1LXJdLj18ftMEm9zMJ?mode=gi_t
رحلة عبر كتاب- رواية " حرز تالا" بحضور الكاتب عمر الانصاري
رحلة عبر كتاب- رواية " حرز تالا" بحضور الكاتب عمر الانصاري
يسر "ملتقى الراويات" وبرنامج "مدارس الحياة" التابع لهيئة دبي للثقافة و الفنون أن يدعوكم لحضور جلسة حوارية بعنوان: “الهوية والتراث الإماراتي في السرد المعاصر” ، بمشاركة الكاتب عمر الأنصاري ، ومناقشة لروايته "حرز تالا" ، الأحد ٨ فبراير 2025 ، الساعة 7 مساءً ، بمكتبة الصفا للفنون والتصميم ، الوصل، دبي. يدير اللقاء ا. ميسون الشريف الدعوة عامة **متوافر نسخة pdf فقط لمن يرغب في قراءة الرواية ويحضر المناقشة** نتطلع لحضوركم جميعا.

Brotherhood Events Near You

Connect with your local Brotherhood community

Men's Group meetup
Men's Group meetup
**The idea for this group is to build a community where men can gather together and build connections & learn and grow from each other.** How we start each meeting is by each of us checking in with our "roses and thorns" aka what are the good things and the bad things going on in your life recently? Then we will go into a topic discussion. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **COMMUNITY AGREEMENTS** \*\*THERE WILL BE A ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY FOR NO-SHOWS. IF YOU RSVP TO A MEETING AND FAIL TO SHOW UP WITHOUT NOTICE, YOU'LL BE REMOVED FROM THE GROUP. THIS IS TO PRESERVE THE INTEGRITY OF THE GROUP\*\* 1. Confidentiality - EVERYTHING that is shared NEVER leaves this space so that this space remains safe and sacred. There is a zero tolerance policy for this. If a man is in violation of this, they will be permanently removed from the group. 2. Non-Judgement - we respect and honor every man’s truth so that we may receive the same from others. While we may not agree on everything, we commit to respecting every man’s perspectives and engaging in honorable discussion with one another. 3. Be committed - honor your commitment to this group and to yourself. If you attend a meeting, please commit yourself fully to the meeting. Also be committed to your own journey. When we fail, we own it & clean it up. 4. Speak from the heart - this is NOT a space to “look good”, have the “right” answers, and have it all together. Relax and know you are not alone. Be exactly who you are within the safety of this space. 5. Be supportive - This means always willing to provide encouragement to your fellow men, encourage action and momentum in each other’s lives.. Be willing to challenge each other. Be willing to hold each other accountable. 6. Participation - what you receive from this community will be a reflection of what you put into it. Period. We ask that you share your perspectives, reflect on others, and give/receive support when and where it’s needed.
Men of Unity: A Circle for Strength, Spirit & Connection
Men of Unity: A Circle for Strength, Spirit & Connection
**Men of Unity** is a safe, welcoming space for men to connect, share, and grow together. In this circle, we explore what it means to live with purpose, integrity, and spiritual awareness in today’s world. Through open dialogue, reflection, and mutual support, we learn to balance strength with compassion, confidence with humility, and action with mindfulness. Whether you’re seeking deeper spiritual connection, personal clarity, or simply a supportive brotherhood, this group invites you to bring your authentic self and grow in community. Each gathering may include: * Open discussion on real-life challenges and victories * Guided reflection, prayer, or meditation * Encouragement for living from truth, not fear * Tools for emotional and spiritual growth No preaching. No pressure. Just real men, real conversations, and real transformation.
Valentine's Weekend: WUTHERING HEIGHTS at the Drexel Theatre!
Valentine's Weekend: WUTHERING HEIGHTS at the Drexel Theatre!
Join us as we get together to see the steamy-romance-period-drama, WUTHERING HEIGHTS. Director Emerald Fennell gives us her take on the romance between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw from the classic Emily Bronte novel. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: The film tells a passionate and tumultuous love story set against the backdrop of the Yorkshire moors, exploring the intense and destructive relationship between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw. The film is directed by Emerald Fennell (Promising Young Woman, Saltburn) and is loosely based on the classic novel by Emily Bronte. It stars Margot Robbie, Jacob Elordi, Alison Oliver, Owen Cooper and Hong Chau! TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fLCdIYShEQ PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet inside the lobby area about 30 minutes before the show begins. Advance ticket purchase not required for this theater but early arrival is advised! Be sure to mention you’re with the Movie Group for admission and concession discounts! And, after the movie, don’t miss the best part of the night – food and drinks at the nearby Rusty Bucket! Complete details will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan
Columbus, OH Open Men’s Group / Intro to Men’s Work
Columbus, OH Open Men’s Group / Intro to Men’s Work
Interested? Contact Preston Moore k.preston.moore@gmail.com 614-300-5989 ———————————— Engaging in men’s work is the new way to forge friendships while being open-minded to personal growth. Many men experience healthier relationships, personally and professionally, by engaging in this work. Open Men’s Group is a container for men to share vulnerably without receiving judgment or feedback. We believe that emotionally mature, powerful, compassionate, and purpose-driven men will help heal some of society’s deepest wounds. We support the powerful brilliance of men and we are willing to look at, and take full responsibility for, the pain we are also capable of creating – and suffering. We care deeply about men, our families, communities, and the planet. Visit ManKind Project USA to discover more. https://mkpusa.org/
BeComing Circle Initiates
BeComing Circle Initiates
http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/a/9/6/600_348310902.jpeg Instructor - Crow, HPS Class fee is $30 at the door or approved exchange RSVP with Advance pay of $25 (discounted) by PayPal on the web or by contacting Enchanted Elements (614) 437-2642. Reservations made directly to Enchanted Elements will be added to the class list manually not online. Private Instruction ~ Closed to the Public ~ Initiated Members Only Please come prepared for ritual. Blessings ~ Crow
Philosophy of Friendship: What are the bases of "friendship"?
Philosophy of Friendship: What are the bases of "friendship"?
As you may or may not know--I didn't until late last year--Aristotle wrote extensively on "friendship" in the Nicomachean Ethics. After 69 years the concept of friendship still creates questions and uncertainty. I had close friends in high school and for a few years after high school but our interests diverged and people moved all over the country so it was hard to maintain connections. * So if I/you haven't talked with a friend for several years, are you still friends? Are we friends who meet at Drunken Philosophy or Omnipresent Atheists? * Can you be friends with someone with whom you have virulently divergent political views? Sartre and Camus could not. * Aristotle regarded friendship as essential to a good life, not merely an added "bonus." Do you agree? * In the Nicomachean Ethics (Books VIII and IX), he claims that wealth and power are meaningless without friends. Trump has wealth and power but seems to have no real friends, but wealth and power seem meaningful to him in perverted ways. Can you have meaning in your life without friends? * Do men and women view and maintain friendships in different ways? * Aristotle categorizes friendship into three types, based on what forms the bond: * **Utility**: Based on mutual benefit, but this type is fragile and ends when the usefulness ceases. * **Pleasure**: Based on shared enjoyment (e.g., humor, hobbies). Common among youth but fades as interests change. * **Virtue (The "Complete" Friendship)**: Based on mutual respect for each other's character and goodness. You wish good for the other for their sake, not yours. * **Key Principles of "True" (Virtuous) Friendship:** * **Permanence**: Virtuous friendships last a lifetime whereas those based on utility and pleasure are fleeting. * **Reciprocity**: Requires mutual goodwill; secret or unreciprocated affection does not qualify. * **The "Second Self"**: A true friend is "another self"—their virtue helps you understand and improve yourself. * **Time and Intimacy**: Deep ("complete") friendships are few, built on time and shared experiences. * **Self-Love and Friendship:** * Good friendship starts with being a friend to yourself. * They distinguish shallow egoism (chasing honors) from real self-love (pursuing virtue). * A virtuous person’s pleasant self-company allows them to be a stable, good friend to others. * Aristotle argues that one's social circle ultimately reflects one's character—a view with striking relevance today. Well--the Drunken Philosophy social circle certainly reflects good character!