Buffy
Meet other local Buffy The Vampire Slayer fans to discuss the show, its spinoffs, stars, and legacy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out buffy events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the buffy events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
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Buffy Events Today
Join in-person Buffy events happening right now
Saturday Morning Walk @ Ruffey Lake Park Templestowe 3106 🙋🏻♀️
Hi Radiant Ladies,
Join us for a refreshing Saturday walk at Ruffey Lake Park.
👭 Walk at your own pace
🐕 Dogs welcome
☕ Coffee after
🌦️ We walk every Saturday (unless it’s pouring)
New ladies welcome. See you!
Leanne & Lyn 💕
Blood on the Clocktower @Southbank
We are back again for some more *conniving*, *falsehoods* and *mischievous antics!*
**What to Expect:**
Blood on the Clocktower is a social deduction game requiring a storyteller to take a roughly a dozen people through a series of "days and nights" where townspeople try to identify and hunt down a *demon* before they become the hunted.
**Beginners welcome!** You don't need to know how to play **AT ALL**, so please bring a friend, we will run a tutorial for those who need it.
**NOTE**
BOTC requires fluent English, the crux of this game is communication and deception.
**2 Strike Policy**
Late-leavers: attendees who cancel within 24 hours of the event.
No-shows: attendees who mark themselves as “going” but don’t turn up.
Someone who does either of these once will be forgiven but flagged.
On a second offence, they will be removed.
Long-time regulars will be afforded some leniency.
Legitimate reasons will be considered for leniency.
Tech Networking Event by Startup Valley
in Melbourne
**Attention attendees!**
**To register, use** [Luma](https://luma.com/tcjftauk)
Warning:
The meetup is not a platform for RSVP registration; for this, you need to follow [thisLink ](https://luma.com/tcjftauk)to purchase a registration ticket.
The meetup is one of the platforms through which we offer participation in our events.
**Startup Valley — Melbourne**
A curated pitch night for startup founders, operators, angels and VC partners.
We design these sessions to help founders sharpen their thinking through direct, candid feedback — and to give strong investors access to serious teams.
**What happens:**
• 4-8 startups pitch live and receive feedback from angels and VC partners
• Feedback focuses on real decisions and next steps — not surface-level opinions
• Investors stay in the room before and after pitches
• The format leaves space for real conversations, not rushed networking
• Attendance is limited to keep the room focused
Designed for clear thinking, not noise.
**Who you’ll meet:**
* Startup founders
* Angel investors and VC partners
* Operators in marketing, sales, and tech
* AI engineers
* Local and international founders
* AI Experts
* Founders from Europe, Asia, and the United Kingdom
**Practical details**
**For investors:**
We invite angel investors and VC partners to participate as judges and contributors.
**To become a judge,** and get early access to our startups database, please fill out th[ the form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8CVqvhQJu-AcclIF6PCuwjL4YpQt4w0FchGSoutRkt58v4g/viewform).
Join the judge table, meet other investors, and see what teams are building early.
Founders need your experienced view.
**For pitching startups:**
Startups selected to pitch will present live on stage and receive feedback from investors.
**After purchasing a ticket:**
Please[ submit your pitch deck](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSchcZr9gCNJh0RLiKBgbdbDBKEOc-92LNySkzHf8qGPHg5Wpg/viewform) and ensure it is open for viewers.
**Agenda**
**18:00 – 18:30**
**Registration**
Guests register, receive badges, and event programs. This is an opportunity for casual networking, making first connections, and preparing for the event.
**18:30 – 19:30**
**Event Kickoff & Interactive Networking**
Official welcome from the organizers with a brief overview of the event goals and schedule. Interactive networking helps participants set their objectives and connect with key contacts.
**19:40 – 20:20**
**Startup Pitch Session**
Startups present their projects to investors and experts. Each team has 5 minutes to pitch, covering the project's core idea, business model, and target market.
**20:20 – 21:00**
**Chill & Networking**
Participants enjoy casual conversations with investors, discuss collaborations, and exchange ideas over refreshments.
Startup Pitch & Networking in Melbourne
**Attention attendees!**
**To register, use** [Luma](https://luma.com/tcjftauk)
Warning:
The meetup is not a platform for RSVP registration; for this, you need to follow [thisLink ](https://luma.com/tcjftauk)to purchase a registration ticket.
The meetup is one of the platforms through which we offer participation in our events.
**Startup Valley — Melbourne**
A curated pitch night for startup founders, operators, angels and VC partners.
We design these sessions to help founders sharpen their thinking through direct, candid feedback — and to give strong investors access to serious teams.
**What happens:**
• 4-8 startups pitch live and receive feedback from angels and VC partners
• Feedback focuses on real decisions and next steps — not surface-level opinions
• Investors stay in the room before and after pitches
• The format leaves space for real conversations, not rushed networking
• Attendance is limited to keep the room focused
Designed for clear thinking, not noise.
**Who you’ll meet:**
* Startup founders
* Angel investors and VC partners
* Operators in marketing, sales, and tech
* AI engineers
* Local and international founders
* AI Experts
* Founders from Europe, Asia, and the United Kingdom
**Practical details**
**For investors:**
We invite angel investors and VC partners to participate as judges and contributors.
**To become a judge,** and get early access to our startups database, please fill out th[ the form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8CVqvhQJu-AcclIF6PCuwjL4YpQt4w0FchGSoutRkt58v4g/viewform).
Join the judge table, meet other investors, and see what teams are building early.
Founders need your experienced view.
**For pitching startups:**
Startups selected to pitch will present live on stage and receive feedback from investors.
**After purchasing a ticket:**
Please[ submit your pitch deck](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSchcZr9gCNJh0RLiKBgbdbDBKEOc-92LNySkzHf8qGPHg5Wpg/viewform) and ensure it is open for viewers.
**Agenda**
**18:00 – 18:30**
**Registration**
Guests register, receive badges, and event programs. This is an opportunity for casual networking, making first connections, and preparing for the event.
**18:30 – 19:30**
**Event Kickoff & Interactive Networking**
Official welcome from the organizers with a brief overview of the event goals and schedule. Interactive networking helps participants set their objectives and connect with key contacts.
**19:40 – 20:20**
**Startup Pitch Session**
Startups present their projects to investors and experts. Each team has 5 minutes to pitch, covering the project's core idea, business model, and target market.
**20:20 – 21:00**
**Chill & Networking**
Participants enjoy casual conversations with investors, discuss collaborations, and exchange ideas over refreshments.
Tech & Business Networking in Melbourne
**Attention attendees!**
**To register, use**[ Luma](https://luma.com/tcjftauk)
Warning:
The meetup is not a platform for RSVP registration; for this, you need to follow [thisLink ](https://luma.com/tcjftauk)to purchase a registration ticket.
The meetup is one of the platforms through which we offer participation in our events.
**Startup Valley — Melbourne**
A curated pitch night for startup founders, operators, angels and VC partners.
We design these sessions to help founders sharpen their thinking through direct, candid feedback — and to give strong investors access to serious teams.
**What happens:**
• 4-8 startups pitch live and receive feedback from angels and VC partners
• Feedback focuses on real decisions and next steps — not surface-level opinions
• Investors stay in the room before and after pitches
• The format leaves space for real conversations, not rushed networking
• Attendance is limited to keep the room focused
Designed for clear thinking, not noise.
**Who you’ll meet:**
* Startup founders
* Angel investors and VC partners
* Operators in marketing, sales, and tech
* AI engineers
* Local and international founders
* AI Experts
* Founders from Europe, Asia, and the United Kingdom
**Practical details**
**For investors:**
We invite angel investors and VC partners to participate as judges and contributors.
**To become a judge,** and get early access to our startups database, please fill out th[ the form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8CVqvhQJu-AcclIF6PCuwjL4YpQt4w0FchGSoutRkt58v4g/viewform).
Join the judge table, meet other investors, and see what teams are building early.
Founders need your experienced view.
**For pitching startups:**
Startups selected to pitch will present live on stage and receive feedback from investors.
**After purchasing a ticket:**
Please[ submit your pitch deck](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSchcZr9gCNJh0RLiKBgbdbDBKEOc-92LNySkzHf8qGPHg5Wpg/viewform) and ensure it is open for viewers.
**Agenda**
**18:00 – 18:30**
**Registration**
Guests register, receive badges, and event programs. This is an opportunity for casual networking, making first connections, and preparing for the event.
**18:30 – 19:30**
**Event Kickoff & Interactive Networking**
Official welcome from the organizers with a brief overview of the event goals and schedule. Interactive networking helps participants set their objectives and connect with key contacts.
**19:40 – 20:20**
**Startup Pitch Session**
Startups present their projects to investors and experts. Each team has 5 minutes to pitch, covering the project's core idea, business model, and target market.
**20:20 – 21:00**
**Chill & Networking**
Participants enjoy casual conversations with investors, discuss collaborations, and exchange ideas over refreshments.
Buffy Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Paranormal Romance Book Club and Culture
Hi all,
Welcome to the June Paranormal Book Club!!
If you love books that are lighter and fluffier to read, with supernatural elements (magic, vampires, werewolves, etc.) then you will enjoy this group. After book club we head off and become a tourist in our own city, by attending an exhibition or some other cultural activity.
For June, we are going to meet at Time Out Fed Square for book club, then head up to the State Library to visit the Rebel Heart: Love Letters and Other Declarations exhibition: [Rebel Heart: Love letters and other declarations | State Library Victoria](https://www.slv.vic.gov.au/rebel-heart-love-letters-and-other-declarations)
The books for Sunday 21 June 2026 are:
Can't Spell Treason without Tea by Rebecca Thorne
[Can't Spell Treason Without Tea (Tomes & Tea, #1) by Rebecca Thorne | Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61753288-can-t-spell-treason-without-tea)
Cinder House by Freya Marske
[Cinder House by Freya Marske | Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/222376570-cinder-house)
Red Star Rebels by Amie Kaufman
[Red Star Rebels by Amie Kaufman | Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/236064352-red-star-rebels)
If you would like to look at all the books that we have read so far, click [here](https://1drv.ms/x/s!Am2wjNpl1c1ijCNvt-hrWM8gPaem?e=riV48x).
Finally, if you can't make it, please change your RSVP to a NO. Spaces are limited, so it will give other people a chance to attend.
Happy reading until then!! 🤓
Jun 20th | Kismetrix Elegant Singles Night @ Valhalla Bar - Melbourne CBD
## ✨ KISMETRIX \| The Valhalla Experience
[Ticketed Event](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/june-20-kismetrix-elegant-singles-night-valhalla-bar-melbourne-cbd-tickets-1989538049864)
### Elegant Singles Night — Back by Popular Demand
📍 **Valhalla Bar (Basement, Olderfleet Building)**
477 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC
📅 **Saturday, 20 June 2026**
🕖 **7:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Hosted)**
🥂 **Welcome Drink Included on Arrival**
### AN ELEGANT NIGHT FOR PEOPLE WHO STILL BELIEVE IN REAL CONNECTION
Some nights feel different the moment you walk in.
The lighting.
The energy.
The conversations that don’t feel forced.
After an incredible response and a sold-out March event, KISMETRIX returns to Valhalla — one of Melbourne’s most beautifully hidden underground cocktail bars — for another refined evening designed for genuine connection.
No interviews across tiny tables.
No chaotic nightclub energy.
No pressure to perform.
Just attractive, grounded people meeting naturally in a space designed for conversation, chemistry, and presence.
This is for those who miss the feeling of meeting someone properly.
### WHY PEOPLE LOVED VALHALLA
Hidden beneath Melbourne’s iconic Olderfleet Building, Valhalla offers a completely different atmosphere to most singles events.
Warm lighting.
Scandinavian-inspired interiors.
Beautiful cocktails.
A room that encourages conversation instead of competing with it.
It feels intimate without being awkward.
Elegant without being pretentious.
Social without feeling exhausting.
And that’s exactly why people asked us to bring it back.
### WHAT TO EXPECT
🥂 A complimentary welcome drink on arrival
✨ A carefully hosted evening with warm introductions
🖤 A sophisticated crowd focused on genuine connection
🎶 Ambient atmosphere where you can actually hear each other speak
🍸 Additional cocktails, wine and bar snacks available throughout the night
🤝 Natural mingling — no forced speed dating rotations
Our hosts will be there throughout the evening to help create a relaxed, welcoming flow and help ease introductions where appropriate.
### WHO THIS EVENT IS FOR
KISMETRIX events are designed for people who value:
• Real-life connection over endless swiping
• Emotional maturity and good conversation
• Intentional social experiences
• Quality energy and respectful interaction
• Meeting people in a more natural environment
You do not need to be extroverted to enjoy this night.
Many guests come solo.
### AGE GROUPS
To help create a balanced social atmosphere, tickets are released across two overlapping age groups:
• **30–48**
• **38–60**
Guests receive colour-coded name tags on arrival to help facilitate smoother introductions throughout the evening.
(Please note: age ranges are guidelines only. We prioritise overall crowd balance and energy.)
### [YOUR TICKET INCLUDES](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/june-20-kismetrix-elegant-singles-night-valhalla-bar-melbourne-cbd-tickets-1989538049864)
Get your ticket [here ](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/june-20-kismetrix-elegant-singles-night-valhalla-bar-melbourne-cbd-tickets-1989538049864)
✔ Entry to KISMETRIX \| Elegant Singles Night at Valhalla
✔ Complimentary welcome drink on arrival
✔ Hosted experience throughout the evening
✔ Access to one of Melbourne’s most unique hidden venues
✔ A thoughtfully curated social atmosphere designed for connection
### A NOTE ABOUT KISMETRIX
KISMETRIX is not built around pressure, games, or superficial interaction.
We create experiences for people seeking something more meaningful — whether that becomes friendship, romance, community, or simply a memorable night surrounded by good people.
Our events are intentionally designed to feel welcoming, safe, and human.
Because genuine connection still matters.
### SAFE SPACE & RESPECT POLICY
KISMETRIX is committed to creating emotionally safe, respectful environments for everyone attending.
By attending, guests agree to:
• Treat others with kindness and respect
• Honour personal boundaries
• Engage authentically and respectfully
• Contribute to a positive atmosphere free from harassment or inappropriate behaviour
Our hosts are available throughout the evening should any guest require support.
KISMETRIX reserves the right to refuse entry or remove attendees to protect the safety and comfort of our community.
Full Code of Conduct:
[www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct](http://www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct "http://www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct")
### LAST EVENT SOLD OUT
If this event speaks to you, don’t wait too long.
Some of the best moments in life begin with simply deciding to show up.
🎟 Secure your ticket now.
\-\-\-
Hosted by KISMETRIX \| True Connection
🌐 **[www.kismetrix.com.au](http://www.kismetrix.com.au "http://www.kismetrix.com.au")**
[📧 ](http://www.kismetrix.com.au "http://www.kismetrix.com.au")**[social@kismetrix.com.au](http://www.kismetrix.com.au "http://www.kismetrix.com.au")**
📱 Follow us on **[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/ "https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/"), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559826808523 "https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559826808523") & [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/kismetrix-singles-events-84848288353 "https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/kismetrix-singles-events-84848288353")**
📄 **Important Notice:**By registering for this event\, you confirm that you have read and agree to Kismetrix \| True Connection’s[ Terms & Conditions](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/terms-and-conditions-2/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/terms-and-conditions-2/"),[ Privacy Policy](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/privacy-policy/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/privacy-policy/"),[ Disclaimer](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/disclaimer/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/disclaimer/") and [Code of Conduct](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct/").Some events may be non-refundable as stated in their individual descriptions.🤝 Collaborations: **collabs@kismetrix.com.au**
Yarra and Botanics Walk discussing 'Mad Mabel' by Sally Hepworth
We'll meet at the spot where Fed Square meets the Princes Bridge over the Yarra (near the pedestrian crossing closest to the river from Flinders St, on the Fed Square side).
We'll walk for about 6km along the Yarra River, through the Botanic Gardens and back along the river to Federation Square for a coffee after the walk.
This month, we're reading and talking about 'Mad Mabel' by Sally Hepworth
The blurb:
"In 1959, at just fifteen years of age, Mabel Waller became the youngest Australian in history to be convicted of murder.
In 2025, on a quiet Melbourne lane, an elderly man is found dead by his neighbour, 81-year-old Elsie Fitzpatrick. No one suspects any foul play.
Until they discover Elsie's past.
In the 1950s, her name was not Elsie. It was Mabel.
She is known around the world as Mad Mabel. But is she mad? More importantly, is she guilty?
When the police open a new investigation and the media descend upon her, the elderly Mabel decides it's time to set the record straight.
In a world first, at the age of 81, Mabel Waller is speaking.
New York Times bestselling author Sally Hepworth is at her finest in this twisty, compulsive thriller of friendship, family and murder. Or is it justice . . . ?"
Goodreads rating: 4.40
How does a walking bookclub work?
Like a normal bookclub, we talk about the book, what else we're reading, have read, or want to read (as well as a few tangents into life outside literature!) but we do it while walking around Melbourne and then over a coffee. We often split into smaller groups as we walk, but we also regroup through the walk.
Should I read the book beforehand?
The conversation will be more interesting if you do, but you can still come along if you haven't finished it yet!
Do I need to bring anything?
**Comfy** walking shoes, drinking water, some money for coffee or a bite to eat after if you wish. No need to bring the book unless you want to.
No shows
No shows (RSVPing yes and not attending) mean the group waits unnecessarily for those who are not coming, thinking you are running a little late. It’s absolutely fine to change your rsvp for any reason up until the walk begins, and you don’t need to leave a comment, send a message or give a reason, but if you don't click that 'change rsvp' button, you may be removed from the group.
Membership Fee
Did you know that while it is free to attend most events, Meetup charges organisers about $600 a year to organise a group? Members of the Walking Book Club are asked to pay a membership fee of $10 per year (not per event) to help cover this cost. When you join the group, you'll be automatically given a three month trial so you can see what the group is like, without needing to make any payment. If you would like to continue attending events after this, please follow Meetup's instructions to pay the $6.50US/approx $10AUD fee once per year (or contact group organisers if you would prefer to make payment using paypal, payID, cash or bank transfer).
Star Trek Watch Party
We will be having a Star Trek: First Contact watch party. Please bring a plate or drink to share, or $10 for pizza.
The Multicultural Hub is located across from Vic Market. We will be in the Gallery Room. If the doors are locked, we will have somebody at the Market side door downstairs for the first 30 minutes of the meetup (before 1:45, when we start the film). After that, please comment and we will send somebody to let you in.
WINTER SOLSTICE ~ A WITCH’S CHRISTMAS
**Saturday 20th June**
Adorn yourself in your warmest witchy finery, grab your drum (if you have one) and come and join us as we call back the sun and celebrate the season of abundance-consciousness.
If you have a song or poem which relates to the season, bring it along, and in the spirit of the season, some food to share.
**MIDDAY – YULE RITUAL – THE SOLAR CONJURATION**
A banishing of the ***Winter blues***, and a blessing of the ***Yule log***, precede the percussive energy raising and chant to call back the sun, culminating with the symbolic lighting of the ***Yule log*** and the spreading of the light and magic. Basking in the warmth and energy of the blazing ***Yule log***, we’ll then spice things up, as we conjure a ***magical Solstice brew*** of (non-alcoholic) mulled wine, to warm the heart, lift the spirits, and cultivate abundance-consciousness.
**AFTERNOON – WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION**
An afternoon of feasting and fun with seasonal poetry, storytelling, chant and song to honour and celebrate the solstice season.
**IMPORTANT INFORMATION – Please read**
**Please respect others - if you have any symptoms that may be covid or flu, we ask that you do not attend - we thank you for your consideration..**
**TIME:** From 11am
**COST:** $20.00
**BRING:** Food to Share
**ENCOURAGED but OPTIONAL:** Seasonal Poetry or Song.
**WHERE:** 130 Boronia Rd., Vermont, Melbourne, 3133
03 9873 3736
[esoteric666@optusnet.com.au](mailto:esoteric666@optusnet.com.au)
[www.esotericbookshop.com.au](http://www.esotericbookshop.com.au)
esotericbookshop.org
Buffy Events Near You
Connect with your local Buffy community
"Metal Slinger" by Rachel Schneider
Join us as we discuss our June pick: Metal Slinger by Rachel Schneider!
Book description:
Even though she's not one of them, Brynn has spent her life among the Alaha, training to be a guard and waiting for the chance to attend the annual market hosted by the Kenta–the very same people who exiled her adopted community to a life at sea. Going to the market is a rite of passage eagerly anticipated by all young guards, but Brynn does not anticipate breaking a century-long peace treaty while there. Nor does she plan for the intense encounter with an enemy soldier that now threatens to unwind the fragile coexistence between their people–and everything Brynn once believed about herself to be true.
Brynn's loyalty to the Alaha is tested when the truth of her identity is brought to light by this soldier who's taken an oath to bring her back to where she belongs. Narrowly escaping death on the violent high seas, Brynn's connection to the Alaha is further tested when she learns about the world of magic she's been denied. She was once certain of her fate and where she belonged, but the dark, knowing eyes of this stranger have her questioning everything, including her heart.
Packed with knife fights and seafaring adventure, METAL SLINGER is the smash-hit start to the romantic fantasy duology, the Fire & Metal series
Super Friday: SUPERGIRL at Cinemark Stoneridge!
Join us for an Opening Night showing of the super-hero action-adventure, SUPERGIRL! Get in early because this series is just getting started! Hot on the heels of last year’s excellent SUPERMAN comes what should be another fun adventure! Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event:
DESCRIPTION: Kara Zor-El, aka Supergirl, joins forces with an unlikely companion on an interstellar journey of vengeance and justice when an unexpected adversary strikes too close to home. The film is directed by Craig Gillespie, written by Ana Nogueira, and stars Milly Alcock, Matthias Schoenaerts, Eve Ridley, David Krumholtz, Emily Beecham, David Corenswet and Jason Momoa.
TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1-pfiVMKAs
PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 7:00pm showing and meet in the lobby area between 6:40 and 6:50pm! It’s in their largest theater on their biggest screen but advance ticket purchase is advised for this Opening Night showing! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments below. Possible pre-show bite. That part will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer.
Look forward to seeing you there, Dan
Stalker
Based on the novel Roadside Picnic, it is NO picnic, but rather one of the masterpieces of world cinema. Andrei Tarkovsky's 1979 Soviet sci-fi classic, recounts the expedition of a writer and professor led by a mysterious guide called "The Stalker." to a futuristic wasteland called "The Zone." Dripping with existential dread, it continually presents strange occurrences that will have us debating the meaning of what we've just viewed right through the ending.
*Stalker* (1979) can be streamed for free on HBOMax, the Criterion Channel or Kanopy. It's also available for rent on Amazon Prime and AppleTV. The Columbus Library has two copies on disc.
Queer Quills
**We are expanding our creative programming opportunities with Queer Quills, a quiet writing and sharing space. Queer Quills features some prompts, supplies and friendly faces to help get some inspiration or feedback for your writing. Hope to see you there!**
Monthly Meet Up (Goddess of the River)
This month we’ll be reading Goddess of the River by Vaishnavi Patel. Feel free to come even if you don’t finish the book!
Drunken Philosophy: Where Is Everybody? The Fermi Paradox and the Great Filter
Welcome to Drunken Philosophy, a casual, curious, social discussion club. Come grab a drink and a seat at The Oracle.
**Optional topic for this meetup: Where is everybody?**
In 1950 the physicist Enrico Fermi was talking about aliens over lunch and asked a question that still has not gone away: if the universe is so vast and so old, and even a fraction of those billions of stars have planets, where is everyone? By the numbers the galaxy should be crowded with civilizations. Instead we look up and hear silence. That gap between "they should be everywhere" and "we see no one" is the Fermi Paradox.
One of the most unsettling answers is the idea of a **Great Filter**: somewhere on the road from dead chemistry to a galaxy-spanning civilization, there is at least one step that is almost impossible to get past. Maybe the filter is behind us. Maybe life starting at all, or simple cells becoming complex, or intelligence ever evolving, is the freak accident, and we already cleared the hard part. Or maybe the filter is ahead of us, and advanced civilizations reliably wipe themselves out before they spread.
Here is the part that messes with people. If we ever found life somewhere else, even pond scum on Mars, most people would call it the greatest discovery in history. But it might be the worst possible news. It would mean life is common, the early steps are easy, and the hard step is still in front of us. So the eerie silence overhead might actually be the best sign we could ask for.
**Questions to wrestle with:**
* Is it better to be alone? Would you rather we find alien life and learn we are not special, or find nothing and quietly improve our odds of surviving?
* Where do you bet the filter sits, behind us or ahead of us, and why?
* If it is ahead of us, what is it? Nuclear war, climate collapse, AI, something we cannot even picture yet? And can we do anything about a filter we cannot see coming?
* Two principles pull opposite ways here. The principle of mediocrity (the Copernican principle, Sagan's "no privileged place in the universe") says we are ordinary, so what happened on Earth probably happened everywhere, which makes the silence scream louder. The anthropic principle says of course we find ourselves somewhere life was possible, since we could not observe anything else, so our being here may say almost nothing about how common life is. Which lens do you trust, and does the silence still demand an answer once you account for observer selection?
* And if we did confirm life out there and had to accept we are not special, what would that do to belief in a higher power, and would shedding (or keeping) that belief help or hurt our odds of pulling together as one species?
* Does any of this change how you live, or how humanity should be spending its time and money right now?
As always the prompt is optional. Come for the conversation, stay for the drinks, and bring your own questions.



















