Democratic Party

\***Free with promocode **\- details below “Human nature is not a fixed point; it is a work in progress,” philosopher Nick Bostrom tells us. ​But what does it really mean to improve human beings, and who should decide? What would you change about us if you could? ​Join the Reel Philosophers for another exciting event, this time featuring selected scenes from Andrew Niccol’s 1997 film Gattaca, using its vision of genetic selection to start us off on a discussion about the promises and risks of human enhancement. ​**Please note that we'll screen film clips only, not the entire film.** ​Inspired by ancient Greek symposia, Reel Philosophers nights help sharpen** critical thinking **through film discussions, gently guided by professional philosophers. ​Philosophy meets art at the [Vorboss](https://vorboss.com/) office, connecting the local business community. ​*Vorboss is built for London, delivering world-class connectivity and tech services that are simple, transparent, and built for the future. We own our network and service end-to-end, and whilst others compromise, we don't: no contractors, no hidden costs, no nonsense. Our mission is to set a new standard for reliability and service in telecoms.* ​**The Flow** ​9:00 Coworking (registration link above) ​17:30 Doors open: enjoy free drinks and mingle ​18:00 Join discussions led by PFA philosopher Anja Steinbauer and sparked by cinematic vignettes (no full screening) ​19:20 Curtain falls. Credits and reflections ​19:30 Socialising over drinks ​20:00 Doors close, yet conversations tend to wander through the streets and minds long after ​The office space accommodates up to 30 seated guests. Use promocode "Free" if you'd like to book a free place, and arrive promptly to ensure admittance and a seat. Alternatively, pay the optional fee of GBP 10 for guaranteed admittance and a reserved seat (by paying this fee you will also support PFA and enable us to offer more exciting events to the general public). [PFA financial members](https://pfalondon.org/#members) can reserve a seat for free - [e-mail](https://pfalondon.org/#contact) us if you'd like to excercise this option. — φ — λ — φ — Film clubs form part of the Human RenAIssance series of interdisciplinary events in [Fleet Street Quarter](https://www.fleetstreetquarter.co.uk/) and beyond, organised by members of [Philosopfy For All](https://pfalondon.org/), [GTA Future of Work ](https://www.globaltechadvocates.org/community/future-of-work/)and [GTA Data and AI ](https://www.globaltechadvocates.org/community/datatech/)groups. ​If you wish to become an event partner, contact [Helen Rantsevitch](https://www.linkedin.com/in/web3-strategy-startup-founder/). Media Partners: [Philosophy Now](https://philosophynow.org/) and [London Daily](http://ldd.news/).

**PLEASE NOTE THIS IS NOT A FREE EVENT. TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED HERE TO ATTEND:** [Singles Party london – Puttshack, Bank (Ages 25-35) – Tuesday, 28th Apr 2026 | True Dating](https://truedating.co.uk/events/mini-golf-singles-party-28-apr-2026) **Always been curious about singles events but worried they might feel a bit awkward?** You’re not alone — and that’s exactly why this **mini golf singles party** exists. If sitting across a table for hours doesn’t sound like your idea of fun, but you still want to meet new people in a relaxed, natural way, this event is for you. We’ll start the evening in small groups of six as you make your way around a lively 9-hole mini golf course. It’s the perfect icebreaker — light-hearted, interactive, and just competitive enough to spark conversation (and maybe a little chemistry). Once everyone has completed the course, we’ll bring the whole group together so you can mix, mingle, and chat with everyone you haven’t already met. Our friendly host will be on hand throughout the night to make introductions, keep things flowing, and ensure everyone feels comfortable. After the event, you’ll be able to log into your True Dating account to select your matches. If there’s a mutual connection, you can message securely — and maybe even line up date number two. First time attending a singles event? No problem. Many of our guests are trying this for the first time, and the activity-led format makes it easy to relax and enjoy yourself. As always, we aim to keep an equal ratio of men and women to ensure a great experience for everyone. **Places are limited and our events regularly sell out, so we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.** *Stop swiping. Start dating.*

[Eventbrite link here](https://tinyurl.com/April2030) This event is run by 'Ve Social' A Small Independent Vegan Events company 🥰 Follow our Instagram: [@vesocialevents](https://www.instagram.com/vesocialevents/) or visit our website: [www.ve-social.co.uk](www.ve-social.co.uk) 🌱 **Dates and Mates** **A plant-based speed dating & friending night for 20s and 30s** Looking to meet new people — for romance, friendship, or both *Dates and Mates* is a relaxed, inclusive social night designed for folks in their 20s and 30s who are into connection, conversation, and veganism (or curious about it!). We’re blending **speed dating** and **speed friending**, so whether you're single, new in town, or just want to vibe with cool people, there's a space for you here. ### 🥂 What to expect: * **Algorithmic Match-Making**, with our compatibility quiz! * **Human bingo** to break the ice and get you mingling * **Come solo or bring a mate — either way, you’ll leave with new faces in your circle.**

Check out what we do: https://youtu.be/HSf4QTQpLQ0 Dance West Coast Swing in Covent Garden on Tuesdays. Learn the partner dance taking Europe by storm. Come and join our already well established class night. Danced to a range of music from contemporary to blues, you can find a class in many of the major cities in Europe or America - so it's a great way to combine dance, travel and socialising. The first class is FREE if you've haven't danced West Coast Swing before. No experience, no partner, no problem! Only one trial night allowed per person. After this it's pay per night. It's best to wear flat shoes, other than that come as you are! Doors open at 7.20pm, come early to register and so you don't miss the start of the class. Beginners class starts 7.30pm sharp! Don't be late otherwise you will miss the fundamentals of the dance. Here is the Facebook event - https://fb.me/e/4qvQkkEeM If you would like to keep up to date with what's going on please like us on fb: https://www.facebook.com/swingacademyuk We also have the following classes: Thursday WCS Holborn - https://fb.me/e/3bdhSXHW7 \- Please do not attend any classes if you have any flu like symptoms or are generally feeling unwell \- Wash and sanitise your hands regularly \- Although face masks are not mandatory please feel free to wear one throughout the night if you wish \- Please be respectful of other people's choices

***N.B. Please sign up via their [Google Form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSez0y7ZScJ3UsPuN-kdEr9dXHPxV93MU1o33KJesJjT9I430Q/viewform).*** My four year old daughter and I are attending vegan **[RICE UP! Climate Resistance Community Meal](instagram.com/climate_resistance/p/DXZWbqAjC5J)** at **[Global Generation's Paper Garden](https://www.globalgeneration.org.uk/our-gardens/paper-garden)** ([map](https://maps.google.com/?cid=10749785049327057345)), in Surrey Quays.

ALL LEVELS Kickboxing & Muay Thai Technique & Conditioning Class What's involved * Drill Fundamentals * Calisthenics exercises to improve Cardiovascular Fitness & Strength * Techniques and Defence Drills What to bring All your Muay Thai training and safety equipment Bottle of water Muay Thai Shorts are compulsory as they are sports specific! Can be worn over leggings. Please do not wear unsuitable clothing such as track & field shorts, surf or board shorts, tracksuit bottoms etc. MMA Shorts are acceptable as they have enough stretch for splits flexibility & splits training Note: If you arrive late, please dress in and join the class straight away. Do not keep the class or your training partner waiting. If you need to leave early just slide out and let your training partner or Instructor know

**Should we halt AI development?** **As written by AI** Supporters of halting AI development argue that we are recklessly building systems we barely understand, let alone control. They claim Big Tech is effectively running a live experiment on society, gambling with jobs, truth, and even human autonomy, so hitting pause is not caution, but common sense. Opponents fire back that calls to halt AI are alarmist and short-sighted, risking economic stagnation and surrendering global leadership to less cautious nations. They argue that stopping progress won’t stop the technology; it will simply drive it underground or abroad, making the risks even harder to control. **Where do you stand on this debate?** **YOU decide!** Join us on **28 April 2026** at the Windsor Castle pub for drinks and discussion as we debate the motion: **This House Would Halt AI Development** **First half**: Improvised mini-debates – all are welcome to speak. **Second half**: Prepared speeches, followed by floor contributions – an opportunity to share your views. **[GET YOUR GUEST TICKET HERE](https://104londondebaters.club/)** During the first half of the meeting, there will be an improvised mini-debate session, where anyone may get called to defend or oppose a motion in 2 minutes (voluntarily, of course). During the main debate, 3 debaters will propose the motion, 3 debaters will oppose it, and **YOU** may give your opinion during Floor Contributions. The meeting will be held on the first floor of[ the Windsor Castle pub](https://windsorcastle-victoria.co.uk/) in Victoria, a beautiful Victorian pub with great food, drinks prices. Make sure to give the code word: *Debate Club*!

Where are we now? Contemporary capitalism with its most extreme expression sometimes defined as "techno-feudalism" sees a concentration of power within massive digital platforms, resulting in extreme inequity and the erosion of democracy. What can we do about it? To counteract this extreme centralisation of wealth and power “Techno-Collectivism” is a governance model which integrates libertarian socialist principles with modern technology to manage digital infrastructure. It aims to counteract the systemic failures of neoliberal capitalism while avoiding the authoritarian pitfalls associated with historical socialist regimes. See article… [Link](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/395850712_Techno-Collectivism_Scaling_Libertarian_Socialist_Governance_of_Digital_Infrastructure) Historical and Political Context… This article clarifies the distinctions between socialism, capitalism, and libertarianism, noting how "libertarianism" has been ideologically captured by right-wing market interests. It advocates returning to the original egalitarian, anti-capitalist, and anti-authoritarian roots of libertarian socialism. The framework is built upon three ethical principles: needs-based distributive justice, which prioritizes human care over profit; communal ownership, which grants control to those who use the resources; and citizen control, which ensures genuine and meaningful participation. How? Technological Implementation Tools To scale up these principles, open-source AI could be used for transparent resource planning as well as decentralized ownership and decision-making, decentralized social media platforms to facilitate federated, autonomous communities. Universities as Experimental Testbeds The authors propose universities as the ideal environments to pilot these sociotechnical experiments. By utilizing their existing intellectual capital and relative autonomy, academic institutions can lead the shift toward post-capitalist, anti-authoritarian governance models.

Join us for an exclusive evening at the stunning 12th-floor rooftop bar at the Hilton London – Tower of London. With breathtaking skyline views, a chic indoor lounge, and an outdoor terrace, this stylish venue sets the perfect scene for a night of socialising. **[Tickets can be purchased here](https://www.tickettailor.com/events/cocktailsconversation/2138139)** **The Experience:** Your evening begins in our private rooftop bar, where **60 guests** can take part in a relaxed yet engaging speed dating session. Enjoy a series of fun, **three-minute mini-dates**—an easy way to meet new people in a casual setting. The best part? **Everyone in the room is single!** *(Speed dating is for ages 26-45.)* From 8:00 PM, the event opens into a rooftop mixer & after-party, welcoming an additional 50 guests (open to all ages) for a vibrant social scene. That’s **100 like-minded city professionals** in one incredible setting! Our friendly hosts will be on hand to introduce guests and spark conversations, ensuring you have a seamless and enjoyable experience. The **outdoor terrace** offers a lively yet stylish atmosphere, while our private indoor space is reserved exclusively for **Cocktails & Conversation** guests. As the night progresses, a **DJ** will take over from **9:30 PM** *(located in the main bar)*, setting the mood for those who want to continue the night with music, cocktails, and new connections. **Event Schedule:** 🕕 6:30 PM – Arrival & Check-In 💫 7:00 PM – Speed Dating (Ages 26-44) in our exclusive covered bar 🍸 8:00 PM – Rooftop Mixer & Social (Mingle with up to 100 guests, open to all ages) 🎶 9:30 PM – DJ & Dancing (Enjoy the music and city views into the night!) This is a stylish event designed for professionals who want to expand their social circles in a fun yet sophisticated environment. [Purchase ticket here ](https://www.tickettailor.com/events/cocktailsconversation/2138139)

Weekly cycling club open to members of that club only. Membership enquiries to creativewellnesswon@outlook.com

Hi everyone WELCOME TO LATIN KRAZY THURSDAYS MEETUP EVENT Now DOWNSTAIRS @ SWAY BAR , HOLBORN OUR MEETUP MEMBERS HAVE A BOOTH TABLE RESERVED EACH THURSDAY FROM 7PM WHERE YOU CAN MEETUP BEFORE AND AFTER CLASSES TO CHAT AND MAKE FRIENDS ! ( please bring photo ID for club entry ) FREE ENTRY TIL 9PM WE HAVE SALSA AND BACHATA CLASSES FOR JUST £7.00 1 CLASS OR £10.00 X 2 CLASSES A DISCOUNTED PRICE FOR MEMBERS THURSDAY NIGHT DANCE CLASSES TIMETABLE 6.00pm -7.30pm Private Salsa Dance Classes Available, Call 07801305059 to book ! 7.30pm – 8.30pm SALSA ROOM x 3 levels = Beginners / Improver and Intermediate BACHATA ROOM = x 2 levels = Beginners or Intermediate 8.30pm – 9.30pm SALSA ROOM = x 3 levels = Beginners 2 / Improver 2 and Intermediate Cali Style BACHATA ROOM x 2 levels = Beginners or intermediate Teachers SALSA = Sami , Karin ,Nadeem Bachata = Brandy and Aleks Come and buy your ticket on the night, no need for a partner, no need to have danced before. £10.00 1 hour /£12.00 2 hours ) £8.00 /10.00 students and NHS workers. ( must show I.D) INCLUDES CLUB NIGHT ! PLUS Club night to follow, hosted by Miss Latin K and TOP UK DJ Kevin Gato with Dj Mauro Cangri playing all the best in Salsa , Bachata, Merengue, Reggaeton and More Plus Bachata from Dominican Republic in our very own Bachata Room with Dj De La Cruz It's a party night every week.. Latin Krazy the hottest night in the UK. Dress Code Smart casual , no baseball caps, LOOK OUT FOR THE SHOWS, COMPETITIONS AND MORE UK'S NO 1 SALSA / LATIN NIGHT. Salsa dancing in London UK.

Join us for an exclusive Cocktails & Conversation evening at **Maison Close**, one of **Mayfair’s newest and most talked-about hotspots** — intimate, atmospheric, and effortlessly chic. [Purchase ticket here ](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1987314007694?aff=oddtdtcreator) For the first part of the evening, the venue will be **open exclusively to our guests from 8:00pm**, creating the ideal setting for relaxed introductions, meaningful conversations, and stylish mingling in elegant surroundings. ### What to expect 🥂 **Welcome drink** on arrival (8:00–8:30pm) 🎶 Soft, carefully curated music to keep the atmosphere warm and social 💬 Friendly C&C hosts subtly make introductions and help conversations flow Expect around **120 discerning guests**, all there for the same reason — to meet like-minded people in a refined, comfortable environment that feels far removed from apps or awkward mixers. From **10:30pm**, Maison Close opens to their invited guests. You’re very welcome to stay on as the energy lifts, the lights dim slightly, and the night evolves into a **lively Mayfair soirée**, complete with house music and a stylish late-night crowd. ### Good to know ✨ **Age guide:** 24–46 👗 **Dress code:** Smart & stylish (this is Mayfair — effortless polish encouraged) 🪪 **Photo ID may be required** As always, Cocktails & Conversation events are about **quality over quantity** — beautiful venues, well-matched guests, and an atmosphere where mixing and mingling feels natural, relaxed, and genuinely enjoyable. [purchase ticket here](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1987314007694?aff=oddtdtcreator) We look forward to welcoming you for an evening that begins with conversation… and ends wherever the night takes you 🍸✨

April's book: Anywhere but Here: How Britain's Broken Asylum System Fails us All by Nicola Kelly **What is it like to arrive on our shores with nothing and be pushed to the margins of society?** **Who stands to gain from an asylum system that is intentionally hostile?** *Anywhere But Here* is a powerful exposé of Britain’s broken asylum system and how it fails us all. Each year tens of thousands of people risk their lives to cross the Channel in small boats hoping to find safety in Britain. Yet the very system designed to protect them has all but collapsed. With unique and unparalleled access, award-winning journalist and former Home Office insider Nicola Kelly takes us behind the scenes of the small boats crisis for the first time. We follow the under-resourced coastguard overseeing search and rescue operations in the Channel. The decision-makers hired from McDonald’s and Aldi to conduct ‘life and death’ asylum interviews. The immigration barristers securing last-minute reprieves for deportees who narrowly escaped death. And we step inside the Home Office corridors as ministers and advisors respond to emerging crises and scandals, from Windrush to the Rwanda plan. At its heart are the stories of war-torn arrivals, lone teenagers and trafficked women attempting to settle in cities, towns and villages across the UK. We travel to meet them, exploring where they have fled from and why, and the response of local communities to their new neighbours. **Situated on the beaches and the ports, in the hotels, the courtrooms and the detention centres where the futures of those affected unfold, this is a searing investigation into one of the most urgent issues and shocking injustices of our time.** The meeting starts at 7:30. After starting the group, we will break up into small groups. Those familiar with the CLH Book Group meeting know how this works: in each group we take turns introducing ourselves and giving our 1 minute thoughts on the book. It's important not to go over a minute and not to interrupt other people's minute so that everyone gets a chance to participate. After this first round, each group discusses for another 20 minutes or so. We then shuffle the groups so as to talk to as many different people as possible and in the new groups repeat our introductions and 1 minute thoughts. We'll do this a couple of times before coming all together at the end in one last big group. While we are very social and welcoming, the book group's primary focus is on discussing books. Feel free to turn up if you haven't managed to finish this month's book but note that the group works best when we have all read at least half of the book and are prepared to share our opinions. *** £3 per person to attend. If it's your first time, come and try us out for free! If you prefer, you can [pay online, by clicking here](https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=ZWCNRJ25BDL96). We encourage dialogue, debate and sharing of information on our site but ask people to keep their comments cordial. Any views expressed here are those of the individual posting them and may not reflect those of CLH.

**RSVP TO ATTEND THIS EVENT. ALL TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE TO ATTEND THIS EVENT..** **Welcome to Socialite Connections –** **Business Networking: Sustainability, Green Tech Startups** Join us for an inspiring event for visionary Sustainability & Green Tech Startups and Entrepreneurs committed to transforming our planet through groundbreaking sustainable technologies and eco-friendly solutions! Are you passionate about driving positive environmental change through innovation and technology? Do you believe in the power of collaboration to accelerate the transition towards a cleaner, greener world? If so, we invite to attend this exclusive event of likeminded individuals dedicated to promoting sustainable practices. **Ticket & Entry: Here is the payment link:** https://fatso.ma/3APD **We start the event at 6.00pm with a warm welcome.** Having an open-minded approach is ideal, as it will enable you to establish new connections. We have hired the private room downstairs. **The Anthologist -** Located in the heart of the City, on Gresham Street by Bank station, The Anthologist is a gorgeous bar & restaurant with a cosy outside seating area. We are ready to welcome you with delicious travel inspired dishes, gorgeous spritzes & bubbly. **Event Schedule** **18:00 – 21:00 \| When you arrive\,** your name will be checked off the guest list, you will be given a name badge and you will be introduced to each other. **19:00 – 19:30 \| One Minute Elevator Pitch:** All attendees will be given the opportunity to introduce themselves to everyone in the room to talk about your startups or ideals. (Pitch starts at 19.00pm sharp, please dont be late) **19:30pm \- 21:00 \| Network & chill: I**t will be a free form event where guests can mingle amongst each other in a relaxed environment, when the pitches are finished. **Why Attend?** Connect with like-minded professionals passionate about creating meaningful environmental impact, discovering breakthrough technologies, developing scalable solutions to our global sustainability challenges. Connect with professionals from various industries who share a common interest in sustainability. Whether you're in renewable energy, sustainable design, eco-friendly technology, or simply looking to make more sustainable choices in your business, this event provides the opportunity to network and foster valuable connections. **Who should Attend** Connect with Sustainability **& Green Tech Startups and Entrepreneurs** in a relaxed setting. **Corporate sustainability managers, Environmental consultants, Green technology entrepreneurs, ESG professionals, Impact investors, Climate innovation specialists, Environmental Engineers and Scientists, Clean Energy Enthusiasts, Policy Makers and Regulators, Nonprofit and NGO Representatives, Students Pursuing Sustainability Studies, Sustainability professionals and advocates, Environmental researchers and activists, Sustainability-focused start-ups, Working Professionals.** **One Minute Elevator Pitch:** All attendees will be given the opportunity to introduce themselves to everyone in the room talk about your startups or ideals. (Pitch starts at 19:00pm sharp, please dont be late) **Tickets are limited to just 40 attendees.** We like to make sure everyone gets the opportunity to talk to each other. **Ticket & Entry: Here is the payment link:** https://fatso.ma/3APD You are invited to join the dedicated Whatsapp group for the event and start networking before the actual event. Register now to secure your spot and be part of this transformative networking experience! **Tickets need to be bought online in advance to attend this event. Tickets are not available at the door.** **Refund policy: There is no refund at this event.....**

🌺🍹 **TIKI PARTY @ PBR COWBOY BAR + SMOKEHOUSE** 🐂🌴 **Friday, May 15th** Grab your crew and get ready to trade boots for beach vibes (or rock both 😏). We’re turning PBR into a tropical party for one night only—think island energy, great music, and a packed dance floor. 🔥 **How to Join the Party** When you arrive, just **say “PBR Meetup” at the door** to get your wristband for exclusive drink specials all night! 🍹 **Exclusive Drink Specials-7pm-9pm** $3 Domestic Draft – Miller Lite & Coors Light $3 Well Liquor Cocktails $4 Vizzy Seltzers $5 Select Call Liquor – Tito’s, Bacardi, Tanqueray, Cazadores Reposado & Jack Daniels $5 Select Shots – White Tea Shots & Fireball 💃 **What to Expect** 🌴 Tropical vibes + high-energy music 💃 Line dancing + dance floor all night 🤝 A fun, social crowd (perfect for groups or meeting new people) 📸 Plenty of moments you’ll want on camera Whether you’re coming for the drinks, the dancing, or just a fun night out—this is your excuse to show up and go all in. Throw on something tropical, bring your people, and we’ll see you at the party 🌺🍹

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.

[The Kind Exchange](https://www.facebook.com/events/3087825058070662/) A gathering to share, swap, and connect with like-minded people who care about plant-based living, sustainability, and mindful choices. This is more than a swap — it’s a space to circulate what we already have and meet others in the community. Bring any of the following to share: * **Vegan-related books** (cookbooks, sustainability, mindful living, etc.) * **Plants or cuttings** (optional) Swap for something new-to-you from others. *The more you bring, the more there is to exchange!* Please RSVP so we can plan accordingly- [https://form.jotform.com/260975490897073](https://form.jotform.com/260975490897073?utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e0_tv4&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVGxJeFRub0FQNmhUcmF3VnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4u9YhVWcSkITKfEn_NajeEUIyxFrXbcaG0HjFHoQn-MCxKlhGlUpFAnsMIzw_aem_vo9QISntFpTtGskmWaVEkQ) Unclaimed books/plants at the end of the event will be donated.

Feeling down? Sometimes depressed? Can't focus? Negativity & stress? Recent losses? Creativity in career and personal life hindered by mental blocks? Sometimes we never fully recover from traumatic experiences. Whether it was yesterday, last week or a year ago, traumatic experiences - a loss of a loved one, losing a job, a breakup - can leave you scarred. You talk about it and feel a little better, but it never goes away. After you hang up the phone, it's still there; the sadness, the cloud, the over-thinking, the worry, the guilt. You try to focus, but you're blocked. You try to look forward into new experiences, new relationships but a cloud is hanging over you, casting a shadow on what you once considered a bright, cheerful future. What happened to your courage? Your strength of character? You're 'why not' attitude? Whoever said 'time heals' must have had a special time machine, because after weeks, months, years, you're wondering - when exactly does that kick in? Sometimes it seems like drinking or drugs are the way to go. But they wear off, and now the problem is still there with added side effects from the drugs. At this free local Meetup event we will talk about: * What causes grief, anxiety and depression to become chronic. * Is it possible to regain your joy and happiness even after traumatic experiences? * How to break away from negativity and focus on the future * What are the steps to take to get control of your mind and your emotions? Learn about a safe, gentle, do-it-yourself counseling that can be done in the comfort of your own home. Let's explore safe, effective solutions for healing from traumatic experiences. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to the event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is sponsored by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center.

When judging morality, should we prioritize **intentions/duty** or **outcomes/results**? It introduces two influential philosophers as representatives of these approaches. * **Immanuel Kant (deontology):** An action is moral when it is done from **duty** and follows rational, universal principles (the **categorical imperative**). Certain acts—like lying—are wrong regardless of the consequences; you can’t do a wrong thing for a right reason. * **John Stuart Mill (utilitarian consequentialism):** The morality of an action is determined by its **effects**, specifically how much **happiness/well-being** it produces. Mill argues that some pleasures are “higher” than others, and that good intentions don’t redeem harmful outcomes. ## Discussion Questions 1. **The lying dilemma:** A murderer comes to your door and asks if your friend is hiding inside. Kant would say you must not lie. 2. **Can good intentions rescue a bad outcome?** 3. **The organ harvest problem:** A surgeon has five patients dying of organ failure and one healthy patient in for a checkup. Killing the one to harvest organs would save five lives, and the math works out for the utilitarian. Why does this feel so deeply wrong? Is that feeling a point in Kant's favor, or just a bias we should overcome? 4. **Do rules need exceptions?** Kant insists moral rules must be universal, with no exceptions. But most of us can imagine extreme scenarios where any rule seems like it should bend. Does the need for exceptions fatally undermine deontology, or is the strength of the system precisely that it refuses to bend? 5. **Who gets to calculate the consequences?** Utilitarianism asks us to maximize good outcomes, but we're notoriously bad at predicting consequences. If we can't reliably know the results of our actions, is it practical to base our entire moral system on outcomes? Does this uncertainty push us back toward rules and principles? 6. **Everyday morality:** Think about a real moral decision you've made recently, even a small one. Did you reason more like a Kantian (what's the right thing to do in principle?) or more like a utilitarian (what will produce the best result?)? Do most people naturally lean one way? 7. **Justice vs. the greater good:** A town can prevent a deadly plague by sacrificing one innocent person. The greater good is clearly served. But is it just? Can an action be morally right and deeply unjust at the same time? 8. **The big synthesis question:** Are these two systems actually opposed, or do they often arrive at the same answers by different paths? Is it possible that we need both: rules to guide us in the moment and consequences to evaluate systems and policies over time?

Start your week the right way with Manic Mondays. Giving you an enjoyable Bachata lesson with a push of cool moves. The second hour has Beginner/Intermediate Salsa on 1. You must understand basic Salsa skills to participate. 730pm-830pm Bachata Cool Moves 830pm-930pm Salsa On 1 (Beginner/Intermediate) $15 for One Class $20 for Both Free Parking & Plenty of Dance Space.

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!