Critical Thinking
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out critical thinking events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the critical thinking events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find critical thinking events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Critical Thinking Events Today
Join in-person Critical Thinking events happening right now
Shut Up & Write!® Almere
Join us for some focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in your area.
When you show up, say hello to everyone, grab a drink, and get your writing tools ready. Once you’re all settled, take some time to chat with your fellow writers. Once everyone’s arrived, I will lead quick introductions and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session.
Afterward, we’ll have time to chat and get to know each other. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers. If you don’t have time to stick around, no worries!
**A note about the format**
We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing.
For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://www.shutupwrite.com).
**Other Important Details:**
WiFi name/password: [PLEASE INCLUDE DETAILS]
Travel / Parking info: [PLEASE INCLUDE DETAILS]
The Glass Bead Game by Hermann Hesse
The final novel of Hermann Hesse, *The Glass Bead Game* is a fascinating tale of the complexity of modern life as well as a classic of modern literature.
Set in the twenty-third century, *The Glass Bead Game* is the story of Joseph Knecht, who has been raised in Castalia, the remote place his society has provided for the intellectual elite to grow and flourish. Since childhood, Knecht has been consumed with mastering the Glass Bead Game, which requires a synthesis of aesthetics and philosophy, which he achieves in adulthood, becoming a Magister Ludi (Master of the Game).
Generation Thinkers - Socratic Talk
“Where big ideas meet open minds — join us!”
“Speak your mind, challenge perspectives, make friends.”
“From ancient philosophy to AI — your thoughts matter!”
“Curious minds unite for a freestyle philosophy jam!"
“A safe space to think out loud and explore deeply.”
“Old wisdom meets new ideas — let’s jam!”
“Question everything. Discuss anything. Connect with everyone.”
“Bringing thinkers together to inspire and grow.”
“Your ideas, your voice — let’s jam freely!”
“Dive deep, laugh loud, and think bigger together.”
Welcome to **Generation Thinkers — Philosophy Jam: Speak Your Mind!**
This is more than just an event — it’s a movement. A place where old wisdom meets future visions, where deep questions lead to unexpected friendships, and where every voice truly matters.
Bring your curiosity, your stories, and your boldest thoughts. Let’s explore everything from timeless philosophical debates to modern challenges in AI, love, freedom, and beyond — all in a relaxed, freestyle atmosphere.
👥 **Who’s it for?**
Anyone craving meaningful conversations and genuine human connection. No preparation, no pressure — just your open mind and willingness to share.
🌟 **Why join?**
* Make real connections beyond small talk
* Get inspired and inspire others
* Grow your perspectives and confidence
* Be part of a friendly, international community
🔥 **Join us to think, laugh, challenge, and grow — together. Reserve your spot and let’s make this an unforgettable night!**
**Event Joining Rules:**
• Aim to arrive on time (ideally 5–10 minutes early).
• If you’re running late, please notify me as the host.
• Newcomers will be given some flexibility in their first sessions.
Kintsugi workshop in Utrecht
**Modern and Authentic kintsugi workshop in Utrecht.**
Choose from three options:
* 1-Day Modern Kintsugi workshop-€60
* 2-Day Modern Kintsugi workshop-€96
* 4-Day Authentic Kintsugi workshop -€180
For all details, please visit my website.
[https://japanworkshopnet.com/upcoming-workshops/](https://japanworkshopnet.com/upcoming-workshops/)
Location: **CLAY TO PLATE**
[Biltstraat 55, 3572 AG, Utrecht](https://www.claytoplate.com/)
**Booking is essential**. Please contact me if you would like to participate in the workshop.
Email: info@japanworkshopnet.com
Mobile:0616059840
Heart of Compassion: Meditatie & Reflectie
*Since this event will be in Dutch, this description is too.*
Het thema voor deze ochtend: **karma**
Ben je benieuwd naar wat het Tibetaans boeddhisme inhoudt en zoek je een plek waar je op een ontspannen en toegankelijke manier kunt kennismaken? Of ben je gewoon op zoek naar een moment van rust, meditatie en reflectie? Dan ben je van harte welkom bij *Heart of Compassion*, een reeks zondagochtendbijeenkomsten waarin compassie het centrale thema vormt. Aan deze activiteit kun je per keer meedoen.
Tijdens deze ochtenden beginnen we met een gezamenlijke meditatie. Daarna volgt een korte inleiding op een boeddhistisch thema, zoals de [Vier Edele Waarheden](https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vier_edele_waarheden), compassie voor jezelf en voor anderen. We nemen vervolgens de tijd om samen stil te staan bij het onderwerp, in de vorm van een gesprek of een geleide meditatie die uitnodigt tot reflectie.
**Voor wie?**
Of je nu net begint met het verkennen van boeddhisme of gewoon op zoek bent naar een moment van rust, iedereen is welkom. Ervaar de kracht van compassie in een toegankelijke en rustige sfeer.
**Praktische informatie**
-Begeleiding: Eline Rinchen Dorjee-Weiman
-Ontvangst: vanaf 10:15 uur en na de bijeenkomst is er tijd voor een kopje thee
-Plaats: [Jewel Heart, Hatertseveldweg 284, 6532 XX Nijmegen](https://maps.app.goo.gl/D4FzqLbkaqs2JNDG8). Loop de oprit op en dan zit de ingang aan je rechterzijde
-Kosten: Aan deze bijeenkomsten zijn geen kosten verbonden
-Aanmelding is niet nodig
Kijk ook naar onze andere [open activiteiten](https://www.jewelheart.nl/nl/open-activiteiten/) en [cursussen](https://www.jewelheart.nl/nl/cursussen-overzicht/)
Japanese art_MAKI-E workshop in Utrecht
Maki-e is a traditional Japanese lacquer decoration technique. Techiniques are involved drawing pictures, patterns, and letters on the surface of lacquerware using lacquer, and then sprinkling and fixing metal powder, such as gold or silver, onto the surface.
In our workshop, you have the opportunity to create maki-e designs using traditional Japanese patterns (wagara) or your own original designs. Then your canvas can be a glass cup or a glass picture frame.
Join us for this unique Japanese art workshop in Utrecht.
* Place: CLAY TO PLATE
Biltstraat 55, 3572 AG, Utrecht
* Price: three options you can choose from
€56 pp(for a glass cup)
€60 pp (for a glass picture frame)
€76 pp (for a lacquerwares)
Limited seats available.
**Booking is essential for adequate preparations. If you've enrolled/registered on the Meetup app, we'll contact you through the app message. Kindly communicate with us accordingly, and refrain from showing up without prior contact. We appreciate your understanding**
Website:[https://japanworkshopnet.com/ ](https://japanworkshopnet.com/)
[MAKI-E workshop info](https://japanworkshopnet.com/maki-e-workshops/)
Email: info@japanworkshopnet.com
Mobile:0616059840
Critical Thinking Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
☕️ Chat & Craft 🧶
Join in for a morning of crafting & chatting over a drink. Just bring your own project and payment for drinks.
Meet fellow crafting enthusiasts, whether it's knitting, crocheting, stitching, origami, or something more unique!
We talk about our projects, exchange tipps, but also just get to know each other and enjoy a relaxed Sunday morning in good company.
All ages, levels and crafts welcome! And don't be shy, we have newcomers most weeks!
**We have limited space at the café, so if you've RSVPd and can't make it, please cancel as early as possible so another person can join!**
We now also have a WhatsApp group, where we want to organise get-togethers and other events. Ask one of the organisers at the next Meetup you join for more information and access.
Sunday Afternoon Comedy at Kartoffel
**Meetup & Mad Cow Comedy Show (please purchase a ticket in advance for the show [here](https://shop.weeztix.com/7644a480-d5a7-4264-a27a-ed697bb17fc9/events?shop_code=3qjd24qv))**
🎟️ TICKETS: https://bit.ly/Expats_Utr_Comedy
🕒 Show starts at 15:00 \| Doors open at 14:00
🍺🥨 Grab a drink or snack from Kartoffel’s tasty menu
**From 14:00 – Join the Meetup!**
Before the show kicks off, come by early for our pre-show Meetup from 14:00. It's a relaxed and friendly way to meet other internationals living in Utrecht, especially if you're new in town or just looking to connect. Our lovely host **Gisele** will be there to welcome you and introduce you to a few friendly faces. Whether you come solo or with friends, you're guaranteed a warm vibe and some easy laughs before the comedy even starts! 🐮
**From 15:00 - The Show!**
Mad Cow Comedy hosts an afternoon of stand-up comedy performed by various international acts, all performing in English. Utrecht-based comedian, Rachel Morton-Young, introduces a different mix of comedians every 2 weeks, so no two shows are ever the same.
**Kartoffel:**
Our show now takes place in the Biergarten at Kartoffel, a German-themed restaurant along the historic Oudegracht (only a 10 minutes walk from Utrecht Central Station). The venue has great, affordable food, so considering coming early for lunch, or staying for a bite after the show.
🐮 **Hosted by Rachel Morton-Young**
Rachel brings the energy, warmth and cheeky charm Mad Cow Comedy is known for. She’s a British comic living in Utrecht and the mastermind behind these monthly mayhem-filled shows.
**Line-ups:**
**22nd February 2026**
✨ **Diederik Zuurmond** – dry, playful observations from a British-born Amsterdammer
✨ **Ghieslaine Guardiola** – dynamic, multi-talented performer blending storytelling with big stage energy
✨ **Pieter Jouke** – seasoned international comedian with sharp, intelligent humour
✨ **Kyle Lucey** – high-energy Canadian headliner with punchy, no-nonsense comedy
**Upcoming Dates:**
* 22nd March 2026
* 5th April 2026
* 19th April 2026
* 3rd May 2026
* 17th May 2026 (Season finale!)
* We'll be back in September!
**What Customers Say about Mad Cow Comedy (from Tripadvisor):**
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐\*"The highlight of my visit to Utrecht!! I had tears laughing, the absolute perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Very professional show, lovely community vibe, cosy venue and fab food and drinks."\*
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐\*"Great mix of comedians. Rachel the host is energetic and brings a different mix of stand up acts every two weeks. I have been a few times now and it's always a fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon."\*
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐\*"Amazing line up of comedians. A fun afternoon. The best 3 hrs full of laughter. Great line, witty people, well organised"\*
🐮 See you there?
Album Club - Nirvana - In Utero
Next session: Sunday, 22nd of March, 7pm. The Album Club program is like a book club, but for music albums. The show is open to everyone, music experts, casual music lovers, or people who would like to discover new artists.
Participants should listen to the album and participate in the 1 hour live session discussing the album.
The album for March: Nirvana - In Utero
The following tracks will be discussed:
Track 1: Serve the servants
Track 3: Heart-happed box
Track 7: Very Ape
Track 8: Milk it
Track 12: All apologies
We will start from 7pm. Please be at the studio at 6.45
The show starts with a bit of an overview of the band and or the albums, and introducing the volunteers.
A discussion starts with general impressions of the album, followed by discussion of the three key tracks, comments, thoughts and views, finishing with the overall conclusions.
Weekly Anime Night - Winter Session #6
**☃️ Weekly Anime Night - Winter Season ☃️**
Your friendly neighbourhood anime club is there to get you through those cold days. We are continuing the season of **Journal with Witch**
📅 **Event Series Details**
**Dates: March 22nd**
**Time: 19:00–21:00**
**Location:** Buurtcentrum De Speler, Thorbeckelaan 18, 3551 BR, Utrecht
🎬 **What’s the Plan This Week?**
1. Before we start watching, enjoy chats with other joiners, meet new people and get comfortable to start the show!
2. **Journal with Witch - episode 7**
3. Break – Grab a drink, chat, and stretch those legs.
4. **Journal with Witch - episode 8**
5. Short break
6. **Journal with Witch - episode 9**
7. Closing & Hangout – Let’s talk reactions, highlights, opinions, hot takes, and everything in between!
**🎒 What Should You Bring?**
Your favorite snacks and drinks (not provided)
Your love for anime
Friends, or just your awesome self – all are welcome!
🎟️ **Free & Open to All!**
This is a non-commercial, community-driven event created by fans, for fans. Whether you’re new to anime or a seasoned otaku, there’s a seat on the couch for you.
🎌 **About Utrecht Anime Club**
U.A.C. is an ever-growing group of collaborative and diverse people. Our goal is to bring people together from all across Utrecht (and beyond!), to create cozy and inclusive events in which we share our love of anime.
🔍 **Questions?**
Drop them in the event chat – we’re happy to help!
Come for the anime, stay for the laughs, finale vibes, and great people.
See you there! ✨🎥🍿
Morning Meditation
Please join us every other Sunday.
What you can expect:
We will have coffee, tea and snacks ready for you. As we settle into the practice we will sit and become comfortable in our chairs or cushions.
I will ease us into a guided meditation progressively working from the base of our spine, our root chakra to your crown. Once we have completed the chakra wash we will sit for an additional 5-10 minutes.
The full meditation will last between 25-35 minutes.
After we will be brought out of the meditative state and there will be time to reflect, share, connect, or sit silently.
**About the photo: I asked participants if it was okay if I took the picture - everyone was aware and gave consent <3**
Art Meditation at Artrium (Paid)
Nourish your inner artist in a beautiful gallery setting.
This session is about relaxation, attention, and gaining a fresh perspective on creativity - no pressure, no expectations. Engage your senses, become present in the moment. Take a creative break, draw in peace with yourself and rediscover the joy of the making.
All materials, tea and coffee are provided.
Tickets and more info on Eventbrite:
[https://www.eventbrite.com/e/art-meditation-tickets-1982512366857?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/art-meditation-tickets-1982512366857?aff=oddtdtcreator)
Critical Thinking Events Near You
Connect with your local Critical Thinking community
Using Philosophy to Cope with Current Events
So this month's prompt is more general. I think we can all agree that we are living in "unique" times that require coping skills. I think that one role and/or purpose of philosophy is to help us deal with our daily lives and our "unique" times. So, let's share our feelings and thoughts about which philosopher/philosophy we turn to in order to deal with our crazy events. Who/what helps you stay focused in your daily life and helps you sleep at night. I find that Stoicism with a little philosophical pessimism mixed in goes a long way in helping me deal with what I see as very destructive, fearful and mean spirited public policies at both the state and federal levels. Hope to see you on March 28th!
The Clawwww
OpenClaw, NemoClaw, personal assistants, 24/7 agents. What does it all mean? How does it all work and what should we know about it?
Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus.
Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.transformlabs.com/services)
Shut Up & Write!® East Side Columbus
Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, March 25 at Streetlight Guild.
Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done.
**SCHEDULE:**
6:45ish - Quick introductions
7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour
8:00 - The End
**OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing.
**BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer.
Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild!
**WHAT SHOULD I BRING?**
Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you!
**OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:**
* **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space!
* **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels.
* **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay!
* **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.
ASH UU Topic: TBD
ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio
TBD
Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!
Shut Up & Write!® Easton Town Center
We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator.
Join us on Sunday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking!
• What we'll do
Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at noon on Sundays.
Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done.
SCHEDULE:
12:00 - quick intros.
12:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour.
1:10 - chat / take off / keep writing.
OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 1-1:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing.
BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer.
Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you!
• What to bring
Whatever you need to be able to write!
Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible.
See you at The Café on Sunday!
From Web Forms to Web Components - Burton Smith
**Important time note:** Please plan on arriving between 5:30 and 6:00 as the elevators lock after 6 and you'll need to message us and we'll need to come get you.
The building address is 4450 Bridge Park
The entrance is 6620 Mooney St, Suite 400
**Abstract**
Web Forms gave .NET developers a powerful abstraction for building reusable UI controls long before design systems were a thing. Web Components finally bring that same idea to the browser natively.
This session explores how the Web Forms mindset translates into Custom Elements, Shadow DOM, and HTML templates. We’ll examine how Web Components enable design systems that work across frameworks, how they differ from server‑driven controls, and why they’re becoming a foundational layer for modern UI. Whether you’re maintaining legacy apps or building greenfield projects, you’ll leave with a practical understanding of how to apply familiar patterns in a modern, standards‑based way.
**YouTube Link**
TBA
The Graduate
This 1967 film is widely regarded as one of the best American movies ever made. Now remembered almost as much for its Simon and Garfunkel music as its deadpan comedy and being the role that established Dustin Hoffman as the hottest actor in Hollywood. It became a cultural icon for capturing the spirit of 60s angst of a young man on the make, while garnering a batch of Oscar nominations.
After watching the movie on your own, join us to relive (or experience!) those feelings at our discussion.




























