Exopolitics

Authoritarian contexts — e.g. regimes, movements, and personalities — are ubiquitous throughout human history, and can be found across our world today. Analytic political philosophy has tended to shy away from such contexts through idealising the conditions for theoretical research and delineating clearly the scopes for envisioned praxis and efficacy. Even where such contexts feature in analytic political theories, they are either portrayed as definitively and unequivocally defective, or as 'objects' with which democratic societies must engage. This talk posits that such methodological presumptions are fundamentally problematic: not only do they overlook the substantial richness, diversity, and agency of life in authoritarian contexts, they also fail to shed light on how political change - whether it be in the direction of greater political legitimacy or justice - can and should come about in authoritarian contexts. This talk draws upon Dr. Wong's two recently published works — Reparative Justice in Authoritarian States (Routledge, 2025) and "Living the liberal life in illiberal contexts: the case for realist pluralist liberalism", Inquiry (2026). About the Speaker: [Brian Wong](https://www.asiaglobalinstitute.hku.hk/about/people/brian-wong) is an Assistant Professor in Philosophy at Hong Kong University. He is a political theorist and geopolitical strategist whose research examines authoritarian regimes and citizens’ political and moral responsibilities, colonial and historical injustices, and the interaction between domestic politics and foreign policy of states in East Asia, especially China. Brian has taught modules in politics to undergraduate students at Oxford and Stanford Universities, and has delivered keynote speeches across Harvard-Science Po, Carnegie-Tsinghua, Tsinghua, Tufts, and Stanford campuses. Brian is a Hong Kong Rhodes Scholar (2020) and obtained his DPhil in Politics at Oxford University. He holds an MPhil in Political Theory (Distinction) and an MA in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (First Class) from Oxford. He co-founded and advises Oxford Political Review, a publication aspiring to bridge the theory-practice gap. **\* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \* \*** This is a talk with audience Q&A presented by the University of Toronto's Centre for Ethics that is free to attend and open to the public. Unfortunately this talk will not be streamed online as usual. About the Centre for Ethics (http://ethics.utoronto.ca): The Centre for Ethics is an interdisciplinary centre aimed at advancing research and teaching in the field of ethics, broadly defined. The Centre seeks to bring together the theoretical and practical knowledge of diverse scholars, students, public servants and social leaders in order to increase understanding of the ethical dimensions of individual, social, and political life. In pursuit of its interdisciplinary mission, the Centre fosters lines of inquiry such as (1) foundations of ethics, which encompasses the history of ethics and core concepts in the philosophical study of ethics; (2) ethics in action, which relates theory to practice in key domains of social life, including bioethics, business ethics, and ethics in the public sphere; and (3) ethics in translation, which draws upon the rich multiculturalism of the City of Toronto and addresses the ethics of multicultural societies, ethical discourse across religious and cultural boundaries, and the ethics of international society. The Ethics of A.I. Lab at the Centre For Ethics recently appeared on a list of 10 organizations leading the way in ethical A.I.: https://ocean.sagepub.com/blog/10-organizations-leading-the-way-in-ethical-ai

Join Liberty Labs Toronto for our eleventh meetup on **Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM** near Yonge and Eglinton! This month we’re going deep on **breaking free from the matrix** — rejecting the default script of modern life and intentionally designing a more sovereign, fulfilling existence. Whether you’re already living it or just exploring the idea, we’ll discuss how libertarians can opt out of conventional paths and build lives aligned with true freedom. This will be a highly participatory session. Come ready to share (or just listen to) real stories about: * Van life, digital nomadism, or off-grid experiments * Minimalism and financial independence * Polyamory, child-free living, or unconventional relationships * Intentional communities and voluntary living arrangements * Any other way you’re breaking free from societal defaults We’ll talk about the wins, the challenges, the financial realities, and how to navigate family pressure and Canadian legal hurdles while staying true to libertarian principles. What to expect: * Open sharing and respectful discussion from attendees * Complimentary appetizers and a drink ticket * Everyone who attends will receive a million-dollar Zimbabwe note as a fun take-home reminder of real value vs. fiat illusions * Connect with 10-20 liberty-minded Torontonians Venue: Pickle Barrel (2300 Yonge St, at Yonge & Eglinton), right above Eglinton Station. Easy parking in the Yonge Eglinton Centre garage or nearby Green P lots. RSVP on Meetup to save your spot. Let’s talk about **breaking free from the matrix** — and inspire each other to live freer, more intentional lives. See you there!

It's a private session. Not a group event. Some sessions and diagnostics are done in chat text format, no live call is required needed. Advanced sessions are done with the help of personal video call. **Business Consulting with Andy Li** Unlock powerful business insights with Andy Li. With 20 years of experience and multiple certifications, Andy offers professional guidance to elevate your business success and personal growth. ### Get Clarity and Solutions **Services:** - **Business Constellations:** Unlock your professional potential. - **Family Constellations:** Resolve issues affecting business dynamics. - **Psychotherapy & Hypnotherapy:** Overcome personal blocks impacting performance. **Benefits:** - **Enhanced Decision-Making:** Clear, actionable insights. - **Conflict Resolution:** Address internal and external conflicts. - **Strategic Planning:** Develop effective strategies. - **Improved Leadership:** Boost your leadership skills. - **Increased Productivity:** Overcome barriers to productivity. - **Achieve Goals:** Gain guidance on money, business, and personal desires. **Why Attend?** - **Tailored Insights:** Customized guidance for any business or personal issue. **Personal Sessions:** - Available to book at your best time online or held at the Music Garden. **Pricing:** - Free express consultations ONLINE are available. - Offline sessions starting from $25 CAD / 15 min. **How to Participate:** - **Pre-Registration Required:** Register at least one day before the event. - **Easy Registration:** Message WhatsApp at 437-606-6502. 🔗 [Register Now](https://wa.me/%2B14376066502) Don’t miss out on valuable insights to enhance your business success and achieve your goals. Reserve your spot today! **Certifications:** - Certified Hypnotherapist - Licensed Psychologist - Family Constellations Instructor - Business Constellations Expert - Master Teacher of Runic Reiki, Tantra Reiki, Kundalini Reiki - Magister of Egyptian Temple Magic and Greek Mysteries - President of Academy of Temple Arts **Details & Testimonials:** [PsiTrends.com](http://www.psitrends.com)

Since the beginning of recorded history, Iran/Persia has been one of the most important world civilizations. Iran remains a distinct civilization today despite its status as a major Islamic state with broad regional influence and its deep integration into the global economy through its vast energy reserves. Yet the close attention paid to Iran in recent decades stems from the impact of the 1979 revolution, which unleashed ideological shock waves throughout the Middle East that reverberate to this day. Many observers look at Iran through the prism of the Islamic Republic's adversarial relationship with the US, Israel, and Sunni nations in its region, yet as Michael Axworthy shows in *Iran: What Everyone Needs to Know*, there is much more to contemporary Iran than its fraught foreign relations. He begins with a concise account of Iranian history from ancient times to the late twentieth century and then follows that with sharp summaries of the key events since the 1979 revolution. The final section of the book focuses on Iran today--its culture, economy, politics, and people--and assesses the challenges that the nation will face in coming years. *Iran* will be an essential overview of a complex and important nation that has occupied world headlines for nearly four decades. ═════ Discussion questions: TBD Facilitator: Andrii ═════ $$ Refundable deposit: We'd like to make sure everyone on the RSVP actually intends to join us and enjoy the event. Please make a **refundable** deposit of $5 to hold your spot, via Paypal or Interac e-transfer to [toronto.nonfiction@gmail.com](mailto:toronto.nonfiction@gmail.com), when you RSVP or shortly thereafter. If you are waitlisted please wait until a spot opens up for you before making a transfer. You'll get your $5 back in cash if you join us at the event. If you decide to drop out later or not attend, consider this a donation to support our meetup and zoom subscriptions, which aren't cheap. Thank you! ═════ Meeting format: * We meet to discuss the book after having read it beforehand. * A facilitator guides the discussion ensuring that everyone has a chance to speak, one person at a time. * Warning: Participation in a book club is a dangerous activity. You may encounter opinions different from yours. By joining the group you agree to assume all risks.

**Psychic Readings with Andy Li** Unlock powerful insights with Andy Li, a certified and experienced psychic reader. Combining classical psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, professional tarot readings, business/family constellations, and ancient rituals, Andy offers professional guidance and solutions tailored to your needs. **Services and Pricing:** - **30 min** – 75 cad Session inculdes advanced reading + personal family constellation + additional energy and homeopathy support during 2 weeks. Full session - *60 min* – 150 cad Session includes everything that is in brief session plus advanced imagerial therapy and homeopathy support of inner parts of the soul. Express Session online - is free. To get it you need to - briefly explain your request - send the drawing of you and your request and - get your express reading in text format. Special Promo: Free donation express readings is available in online format. **Available Online and Offline in Toronto.** **Weekly Offline Sessions:** Join us every Thursday at 8:30 PM at the Toronto Music Garden for an enlightening experience. Bring a seat for comfort as we'll be on the grass. **TAROT READINGS @ Music Garden** ### Discover Clarity and Insight **Experience Professional Readings:** - **Tarot Reading**: Gain valuable hints for your goals and situations. - **Scandinavian Runes Reading**: Tap into ancient Norse traditions for guidance. - **Family Constellations**: Resolve family issues and understand deeper dynamics. - **Business Constellations**: Unlock your professional potential and clarity. **Why Attend?** - **Personalized Guidance**: Receive tailored insights for any issue or question. - **Flexible Contributions**: Free participation with a video testimonial or a recommended donation of $10 CAD for 10 minutes of reading. **Event Details:** - 📅 **When:** Every Thursday, 8:30 PM - 📍 **Where:** Music Garden (detailed location provided upon registration) - **Online Readings Available**: Join from the comfort of your home. **How to Participate:** - **Pre-Registration Required**: Secure your spot by registering at least one day before the event. - **Easy Registration**: Send a message to WhatsApp to reserve your place at 437-606-6502. 🔗 [Register Now](https://wa.me/%2B380934788827) Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable insights and enhance your well-being. Reserve your spot today and embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation! **Details & Testimonials:** [PsiTrends.com](http://www.psitrends.com) --- **About Andy Li** Certified Professional Psychic Reader: - **Hypnotherapist** - **Psychologist** - **Instructor of Family Constellations** - **Instructor of Business Constellations** - **Master Teacher of Runic Reiki, Tantra Reiki, and Kundalini Reiki** - **Magister and Grand-Magister of Egyptian Temple Magic and Greek Mysteries** - **President of the Academy of Temple Arts**

Contact Alex for location and information.

**This is a ticketed event. Please register at [this link](https://luma.com/9cs5o16b).** ​Rubi will cover two topics at the intersection of prediction-making AI and AI alignment: 1. ​How to align prediction making AI 2. ​How to use predictions in the alignment of general agents ​This talk will discuss problems in using AI for predictions and how we might solve them, along with the implications for aligning powerful AI systems. ​​​**Event Schedule** 6:00 to 6:30 - Food and introductions 6:30 to 7:30 - Presentation and Q&A 7:30 to 9:00 - Open Discussions ​​​​​​If you can't make it in person, feel free to join the live stream starting at 6:30 pm, via [this link](https://www.youtube.com/@Trajectory-Labs/live).

These fun & informative clinics are for those who are interested in learning all about the wonderful health benefits of Nordic pole walking plus the basic steps of Nordic Pole walking. During spring and summer we meet at the beautiful Sheppard's Bush Conservation Area under the canopy of the trees. In case of rain we can meet under a wooden shelter. * These clinics are also for those who love to Nordic pole walk, for those who want to brush up their skills and for those who want to introduce their friends and/or family to Nordic Walking. * These are not walks, therefore, everyone of any age and fitness level can join us! * You can borrow a set of poles, bring your own poles, request to purchase a set of poles or just watch and learn. * If you would like to sit at any time, there is a bench or feel free to bring a lawn chair. * And yes, there are bathrooms at the south entrance.

Join us the 4th Friday of every month at 6 pm at Cherie Bistro for another Toronto Humanist & Atheist get-together! Catch up with friends and welcome new people.

It's a private session. Not a group event. Some sessions and diagnostics are done in chat text format, no live call is required needed. Advanced sessions are done with the help of personal video call. **Business Consulting with Andy Li** Unlock powerful business insights with Andy Li. With 20 years of experience and multiple certifications, Andy offers professional guidance to elevate your business success and personal growth. ### Get Clarity and Solutions **Services:** - **Business Constellations:** Unlock your professional potential. - **Family Constellations:** Resolve issues affecting business dynamics. - **Psychotherapy & Hypnotherapy:** Overcome personal blocks impacting performance. **Benefits:** - **Enhanced Decision-Making:** Clear, actionable insights. - **Conflict Resolution:** Address internal and external conflicts. - **Strategic Planning:** Develop effective strategies. - **Improved Leadership:** Boost your leadership skills. - **Increased Productivity:** Overcome barriers to productivity. - **Achieve Goals:** Gain guidance on money, business, and personal desires. **Why Attend?** - **Tailored Insights:** Customized guidance for any business or personal issue. **Personal Sessions:** - Available to book at your best time online or held at the Music Garden. **Pricing:** - Free express consultations ONLINE are available. - Offline sessions starting from $25 CAD / 15 min. **How to Participate:** - **Pre-Registration Required:** Register at least one day before the event. - **Easy Registration:** Message WhatsApp at 437-606-6502. 🔗 [Register Now](https://wa.me/%2B14376066502) Don’t miss out on valuable insights to enhance your business success and achieve your goals. Reserve your spot today! **Certifications:** - Certified Hypnotherapist - Licensed Psychologist - Family Constellations Instructor - Business Constellations Expert - Master Teacher of Runic Reiki, Tantra Reiki, Kundalini Reiki - Magister of Egyptian Temple Magic and Greek Mysteries - President of Academy of Temple Arts **Details & Testimonials:** [PsiTrends.com](http://www.psitrends.com)

Hello everyone, **\*\*Kindly Read Carefully\*\*** Please join me and my other groups for a fantastic spring afternoon involving a leisure nature and beautiful neighbourhood walk \- Include trails\, parks\, cafes\, ice breakers\, washroom breaks and beautiful sties to see -Our great event will continue as we hit a fabulous location for dinner, beverages and conversation (optional) -Stick around after dinner and music listening party after **Time and Location: Where to meet us?** We will meet at out front of **Smoke Show** **744 Mt. Pleasant Rd)** \*Arrive early if you like (however we will meet out front at **3:00 p.m. (we will wait for everyone to arrive until roughly 3:30 p.m.)** This will give us an opportunity to introduce ourselves as everyone arrives; then make our way on our small adventure through quieter and more natural parts of the city we don't usually get to see. More details below: Sincerely, Steve Flemming (Organizer/Host) **Event Details:** **Sunday Nature and Neighbourhood Walk! (Dinner and Music Listening Party after)** -A great event planned as we explore Parks, Trails, Cafes and beautiful Neighbourhoods with cool sites to see -During the walk we will stop and rest at different spots, bathroom breaks, take some lovely scenic photos, group photos and share some laughs together -Play a couple ice breaker games near the beginning of the walk as well to help us get to know one another \*This event is a great way to naturally make connections, get some fresh air, exercise and (re) connect with some wonderful people **Bonus after our Leisure Nature and Neighbourhood Walk:** \*Stick around after the walk for a fun Sunday evening gathering at an iconic venue with Reserved Seating, Great Menu, Beverages, Mingling and Music Listening Party **Event Fee:** 10 dollars (cash only) when you arrive (HST is included) or e transfer in advance to Steveflemming11@gmail.com \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Time and Location: Where to meet us?** **Date:** Sunday May 14th We will meet at out front of **Smoke Show** **744 Mt. Pleasant Rd)** \*Arrive early if you like (however we will meet out front at **3:00 p.m. (we will wait for everyone to arrive until roughly 3:30 p.m.)** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***Thanks for reading everyone, remember to RSVP and see you real soon!*** :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-

**Though it's coming to late spring, one wonders if spring has even started; nonetheless it is time for another brunch,** The future of the **Halton Peel Humanist Community** is in the balance and we want our members and friends to be aware of the challenges we face. Please join us and share your ideas, and especially what you can contribute to keep it going. We will soon discuss these matters more formally at our Annual Meeting, but see no reason why we cannot start the conversation sooner. We’re all ears. ***Apologies for the relatively short notice*** Curious about the brunch menu at the Donegal Arms? You can browse it here: *[Brunch Menu](https://www.instagram.com/p/DLLKR7vP9dB/)* (though no promises it’s fully up to date). **Parking tip:** Try the lot on Hurontario Street, just north of Donegal Arms and the two storefronts next to it.

**\*NOTE\* Our main meetup group for in-person events is Toronto Intuitives.** Join your community of fellow Intuitives and MBTI nerds for a casual evening of engaging conversation. We get together every second Sunday – with a mix of regulars and new friends. There is no fee to attend, though we ask that you support the venue by ordering something to eat or drink. **Feel free to contact event host B. via Facebook/Meetup messenger, or text/call 416-712-8635 for directions**. About the venue: The Pint Public House Nearest Subway: Union Station Map / Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/G5GfXDSQXeifJ5ot5 We make an effort to find pubs that are quiet and introvert friendly, with a section to ourselves. We make no effort to muffle our extroverts, but should they get out of hand, our resident INTJ will use their death stare, to pull them back in line.

Hey Toronto! This is your weekly escape into global cultures. [[Click this WhatsApp Groupchat Link to join]](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CwbMLIBsSY8DSwDzSPm3nZ) Every Saturday at 7:30 PM, people in their 20s and 30s gather for a mix of language practice, travel stories, and community. Whether you’re new in town or born here, this is where world citizens connect. No judgment, no pressure — just pure, human interaction.

**Welcome to Drunken Philosophy** a casual, curious social discussion **Optional topic for this meetup: What's up with all the AI hate?** A recent survey found that 74% of Americans have a negative view of AI, and I want to know why. Come out and debate whether AI is good or bad. My hot take: a labor-saving tool that could potentially help cure cancer gets called dangerous because it might raise unemployment or cause a speculative investment bubble, that tells you a lot more about capitalism and the economic system we live under than it does about the tool itself. As a computer programmer, I think AI is a wonderful tool that has increased my productivity by at least an order of magnitude. I'd go so far as to say Claude Code is the best tool I have ever used. Debate me and name a better one. Is AI potentially dangerous? Yes, but so are a lot of tools. Chainsaws. Steam engines (early ones would occasionally explode and kill everyone in the room). Do you think cavemen sat around debating whether fire could be used as a weapon or for self-harm, and decided not to discover it? I have two friends who hate AI for opposite reasons: one thinks it's a fad and not useful, and the other thinks it's going to take over everything and cause human extinction. Come out tonight, have a friendly debate, and make some friends. No lectures. Friendly crowd. Drop in for one drink and stay if it's fun.

Join us on Monday nights at 7pm for two 25 minute quiet meditations, with one short walking meditation in between. There will be a brief and informal conversation afterward. Stay for as long as you like and feel free to bring or share whatever is on your mind. All Zen Center events are also available via Zoom at bit.ly/IndyZen.

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!

Join us on Wednesday nights at 7pm for two 25 minute quiet meditations, with one short walking meditation in between. There will be a brief and informal conversation afterward. Stay for as long as you like and feel free to bring or share whatever is on your mind. All Zen Center events are also available via Zoom at bit.ly/IndyZen.

Evolve exists to connect women entrepreneurs connect with one another, serve one another, and help one another overcome challenges in marketing, sales, networking, and professional development. **[Add to Calendar](https://www.evolvewomensnetwork.com/columbus-oh.html)** **What to Expect:** \~ Welcome team to greet you, introduce you to others, and make sure you feel a part of the group from your very first meeting \~ Welcome & Introductions: 15 second introductions \~ 15 Minute Speaker Spotlight: Member speaker who shares a bit of her story, how she got to doing what she does, and a tangible tip she uses to gain success in her business. No hard selling...no expectations. Simply giving the group an opportunity to get to know her and her journey. \~ 20 Minute Break Out Sessions: Small groups is where we connect best. Extroverted and Introverted alike get the opportunity to share on a deeper level and learn from one another. \~ Take Aways: Hear what the other groups talked about and share resources to grow yourself and your business \~ Grow Time!: Do you need a specific connection to a person, company, or industry? Share it with us! We love to open our networks to one another and grow together! Guests are always welcome. Please contact Mentor Director Donna Schomer at Donna@EvolveWomensNetwork.com for more information. We'd love to meet you!