Intellectual Discussions

We often think of acting as something that happens on stage — but what if performance is part of everyday life? What if, in some sense, we are always performing? This session explores the idea that while acting may be occasional, performance could be constant, raising questions about the roles we play, how they shape our sense of self, and the rituals that may help us process emotion and experience a sense of catharsis. From the roles we take on at work and in relationships, to the rituals that shape moments like weddings, funerals, and public events, much of what we do follows shared scripts and expectations. But does this mean we are simply playing roles — or is there something more to the self beneath them? How aware are we of the roles we inhabit — and what difference, if any, is there between acting and everyday performance? The idea for this evening’s event comes from the following discussion. You might like to listen to it in advance — it may give you a bit more to reflect on going into the conversation: [https://iai.tv/video/the-philosophy-of-performance-michelle-terry](https://iai.tv/video/the-philosophy-of-performance-michelle-terry) The session will begin with a short introduction (around 10 minutes) to set out the key ideas. After that, the emphasis is on discussion and participation. The aim is to create a space where ideas can be explored together, with time for questions, reflection, and open conversation. No prior knowledge is needed — just curiosity and a willingness to think together. **Where:** Downstairs room, Square Pig, Holborn (private room) **NB:** The event begins at 7pm, doors open at 6:50pm. Event ends at 9pm **Format:** 10-minute intro talk → vote on questions → small-group discussions → share insights with the whole room **Discounts:** If cost is a barrier, we want to make the session as accessible as possible. If you are a student, unemployed, or on a low income, please feel free to send me a direct message to get a reduced-price place. **Refunds:** If you are unable to attend and would like a refund, please send me a direct message at least 48 hours before the event. Unfortunately, I’m not able to offer refunds for cancellations made after this point, as it becomes difficult to reallocate places at short notice.

The Sylvans will hold a debate on the following motion: ***We should focus resources on Earth, not space exploration.*** All are welcome to attend without pre-registration - we have new joiners all the time, and no experience is required. Attendees are welcome to participate or simply observe. The event will take place at Ye Olde Cock Tavern, 22 Fleet Street, simply turn up at 6:45 for a 7pm start. We will offer a hybrid online option for these longer debates. Please contact us to receive joining details. If the maximum 10 attendees on Meetup become filled, you are welcome simply to join on the night without registering. For more information please see [our website](http://sylvans.org.uk).

A relaxed London book club exploring the most influential book in history. Whether you think it’s rubbish, holy, or you’re simply not sure what to make of it, you’re very welcome. We meet for two hours at a time. Our reading list includes books from the Bible — as well as some of the books that didn’t make it into most Bibles. The Bible has shaped culture, law, art and ethics for centuries, yet many people are personally unfamiliar with it. Each evening is structured but informal. The group chooses the book or books to read, and discussion takes place in small groups. No lectures. No pressure. No need to prepare anything in advance. The aim is thoughtful, respectful conversation. Plenty of people feel they know quite a bit about the Bible, yet struggle to read it. This is a space to explore it thoughtfully and honestly — in good company. This club is for: • Curious thinkers • Skeptics • Christians with questions • Anyone who wants to make up their own mind Our only rules? Be curious. Be honest. Be kind. And enjoy yourself. It’s also a chance to find a bit of community along the way. Photos may be taken during the evening to share on the Meetup page or social media to help others see what the group is like. If you prefer not to appear in photos, just let the organiser know at any time. We meet in a private room on the second floor of the Duke of Sussex pub. When you arrive, get yourself a drink, ask for The Book Club, and come on up.

ATTEND IN PERSON OR ON ZOOM **NB This event will now take place at the Café of [St. Hilda's East Community Centre](https://www.google.com/maps/@51.5244243,-0.0746385,17z?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MDkwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), 18 Club Row, London E2 7EY. The nearest station (just a few minutes walk) is [Shoreditch High Street](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Shoreditch+High+Street/@51.5237626,-0.0741518,16.75z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x48761cb7237e45d3:0x832e68d6f5c3b9b0!8m2!3d51.5232573!4d-0.0754661!16s%2Fg%2F1hhvv83t7?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MDkwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (Overground).** We can go back to the earliest beginnings of the Western philosophical tradition to find references to what we might call “common sense”. Heraclitus states that “thinking is common to all”. However, this seemingly optimistic statement is soon qualified by his lament that people don’t understand, and therefore don’t recognise the importance of, his own philosophical message: they clearly don’t think well enough. The lights are on but no-one’s home, he seems to say. But is he really disappointed at the poor quality of common thought or because others don’t think like him? So, yes, we all think, but what is it that is really shared? What is common about common sense, if it exists at all? In my talk at Kant’s Cave I would like to explore with you the possible meanings, uses and value of the idea of “common sense”. We will discuss thinkers from Kant and Voltaire to Gadamer and Hannah Arendt. Event video teaser [here](https://youtube.com/shorts/edZEjrKHKnQ?si=3K0G7Mj1rNoHeVjE) **Dr. Anja Steinbauer** is a London-based philosopher, Sinologist, and the President of [Philosophy For All (PFA)](https://pfalondon.org/). Passionate about making philosophy vibrant and accessible to everyone, she has dedicated her career to public philosophy, pioneering engaging formats that bridge academic thought with everyday life. She is an editor for *[Philosophy Now](https://philosophynow.org/about)*[ magazine](https://philosophynow.org/about) and lecturer at the [London School of Philosophy](https://uk.linkedin.com/in/anja-steinbauer-27966344). This event is sponsored by the Royal institute of Philosophy. For the full programme of events pls see [pfalondon.org](http://pfalondon.org)

Join us for open minded discussions and the opportunity to learn from other people's perspectives and life experiences. This episode will explore the topic of 'LOSS' by way of three original thought experiments. This episode's thought experiments are written by TEiP regular, Camden (of [Veins of London](https://www.meetup.com/veinsoflondon/)), and will be posted in the comments below on the day of the event. We'll meet at the beautiful Betjeman Arms in St Pancras Station. Spaces are limited and tickets sell out fast, so get your ticket early if you want to be there! **THOUGHT EXPERIMENTS** \- posted in the comments below on the day of the event **[SUBSTACK](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/)** \- read more about this community and other related stuff **[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/thoughtexperimentsinpubs/)** \- see what we look like \(including The People of TEiP project\) **[WHATSAPP GROUP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DapwAXpnOHO5DRYThobpe4)** \- stay in the loop **The idea:** A chance to meet and talk meaningfully about thought provoking topics. **How we'll do it** (timings approximate): * 7:00pm - Arrive at The Betjeman Arms. You can access the pub either from the street (entrance to the right of The St Pancras Hotel entrance) or via St Pancras Station (entrance from the upstairs train platforms). We'll be in the private dining room - ask at the bar if you can't find us. * Organise ourselves into small groups (3-4 people per group) * Have a look at the **thought experiments** (announced on the day of the event) * 7:15 - First rotation begins - Talk about the first thought experiment, but feel free to veer off topic. * 7:35 - Optional reshuffle: swap groups, move on to the second thought experiment. * 8:00 - Optional reshuffle: swap groups, move on to the third thought experiment. * 8:25pm - Wrap up - hear about upcoming events, feedback/requests for future meetups. * 8:30 Meetup ‘ends’. But feel free to carry on conversations. We have the room until 10pm and usually a lot of us stay until then :-) **Notes on the general atmosphere**: * The vibe is to let conversation flow rather than stick strictly to one topic. * While we'd like to talk about 'meaningful things', we also see the value in lighter topics, so don't worry about not being 'deep' enough! * Feel free to suggest ideas for future Thought Experiments in Pubs meetup groups, both in terms of structure and topics to discuss. **Where we'll meet**: This group will be at The Betjeman Arms. The nearest Tube station is King's Cross St. Pancras. You can access the pub either from the street (entrance to the right of The St Pancras Hotel entrance) or via St Pancras Station (entrance from the upstairs train platforms). We'll be in the private dining room - ask at the bar if you can't find us. **Who should come**: Everyone! We believe that the more perspectives, the richer the conversation. This group is not about being experts in Philosophy, it is about *doing* philosophy. That is, bringing our various life experiences and lenses on the world to group discussions about the human experience, the nature of reality... etc.... I'm so looking forward to meeting & talking with you in this beautiful location :-) If you would like to further support these meetups, please [subscribe to the newsletter](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/) and [follow us on instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thoughtexperimentsinpubs) :-) Thank you!

The Data Science Speakers Club is a Toastmasters International club enabling the current and next generation of Data Scientists to improve their Public Speaking Skills. This is a HYBRID Meeting! So join us Online via ZOOM or In-Person. Joining the Data Science Speakers Club means joining a supportive environment to build your confidence in public speaking and to practice speaking in front of an audience. You will also gain the opportunity to receive feedback on your speeches in a friendly environment, including what you have done well and guidance on the areas you can improve upon. We also run a mentorship program where an experienced mentor supports you on your public speaking journey. Meeting Theme: **TBC** Tentative Schedule: 18:30 - President's welcome 18:40 - Prepared Speeches (3 prepared speeches with evaluation) 19:25 - Guest introduction 19:30 - Break 19:40 - Table Topic 20:30 - Wrap up, awards, announcements End of Meeting The theme is to do with exploring various aspects of power, including how it is distributed, challenged, and transformed in different contexts. In the first part, there will be speeches. In the second half, we will have impromptu speeches preparation in groups called Table topics where guests can participate. We meet on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th Mondays of each month from 6:30 pm online. Each meeting is a mixture of prepared speeches by our members, speaking roles, and impromptu speaking challenges by members and guests. Our meetings are free to attend and you only have to speak if you want to. For in-person attendance, snacks will be provided. Entrepreneurs, Innovators, and Mathematical and Logical Thinkers aiming to focus on their communication and leadership development are always welcome to attend our meetings, to increase their self-confidence, become better speakers, and become better leaders. TEAMS LINK: [https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/357036976990605?p=hMnMJVrBTzHPAjVaTt](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/357036976990605?p%3DhMnMJVrBTzHPAjVaTt&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw0eY1i8CI6vwSp1vRUX8zSZ) FACEBOOK: [https://www.facebook.com/datasciencespk/](https://www.facebook.com/datasciencespk/) LINKEDIN: [https://www.linkedin.com/company/data-science-speakers-club](https://www.linkedin.com/company/data-science-speakers-club) TWITTER: [https://twitter.com/datasciencespk](https://twitter.com/datasciencespk) INSTAGRAM: [https://www.instagram.com/datasciencespk/](https://www.instagram.com/datasciencespk/)

For most of human history, religion wasn't a lifestyle choice, it was part of life. It told you who you were, why you suffered, what death means, and how to live. Then science explained the sky, the earth, and everything around us, and we told ourselves we'd evolved past all that. But the meaninglessness of life was never explained. Millions of people are still medicated, addicted, and quietly lost, in the most comfortable civilisation that has ever existed. Maybe we just stopped feeding something that was never going to stop being hungry. Can a life be meaningful without believing in anything bigger than yourself? Can science tell you how to live? Are the people replacing religion with politics, wellness culture, or ideology any less religious or just less honest about it? Is dismissing religion a sign of progress, or are we just arrogant enough to think we don't need what every civilisation before us had? Here is a video related to this topic: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DffqK6j-y1U](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DffqK6j-y1U) *Please do your own research and share resources related to this topic in the comments below.* —————————————————————————————————————————————— **💛 Support The Examined Life** Enjoying the discussions? Please consider donating, it keeps us running. 👉 Donate here: [https://examinedlife.uk/donation/](https://examinedlife.uk/donation/) —————————————————————————————————————————————— **Join our Telegram group chat** Stay connected between sessions: [https://t.me/+o9T9DL5u6AcwMmRk](https://t.me/+o9T9DL5u6AcwMmRk) —————————————————————————————————————————————— **About the session** The Examined Life "Let's Discuss…" session is an open, welcoming discussion, no prior reading or expertise required. Format: * **13:15** Free-flowing group discussion on the topic * **14:00 (ish)** We split into smaller groups for deeper conversation on what interests you most * **16:00** Official end of the meetup. Most attendees stay on and keep chatting until around 18:00 —————————————————————————————————————————————— **Please RSVP accurately** Please update your RSVP if plans change, it helps us plan and frees up spots for others. —————————————————————————————————————————————— **Artwork:** Interior of a Gothic Cathedral 1612 by Paul Vredeman de Vries

**Discussion overview:** AI can write essays, generate art, and even build programs in seconds. As algorithms take over the office, many of us fear the pressure to become hyper-efficient machines just to survive. But is trying to beat AI at its own game a losing battle? Or is doubling down on our flawed, emotional human traits our best defense? Whether you're a creative, a young professional, or just trying to navigate a digital world, let's discuss what makes us irreplaceable... 1\. 🤖 **Beat the Machine:** Should we learn to work like AI, or focus on skills AI can never copy? 2\. 🎨 **The Creative Clone:** Can algorithms ever replicate true artistic vision and human empathy? 3\. 🥂 **Return on Investment:** Will AI force us to value real human connection over KPIs? *Join us for a relaxed group conversation where we explore real life, grey areas, and how our different cultures and backgrounds shape our views about key topics.* *Expect real talk, no judgment, and a chance to learn how others see it.* **\*Come for the discussion, stay for the friendships. Our weekly discussion series brings together thoughtful people for honest conversations on relationships, life, and society - with warm social vibes before and after.\*** **WHAT TO EXPECT:** * Good vibes only: we chat big topics in a chill, respectful way. No arguing - just open-minded exchange. * We warm up with casual socializing (come solo or with friends!) * The topic starts around 7:45/8pm, wraps around 9:30. * 🍕 There's pizza, drinks, milkshakes and snacks available at the bar (incl plant-based options) * And most people stay until late for drinks and mingling! **DISCUSSION FORMAT:** **\- Our group conversations are open and flexible\! There is a very soft guided flow to ensure we focus on the key questions\, and to ensure that everyone gets a balanced opportunity to speak\.** \- We rotate groups intentionally during the discussion so everyone gets to meet a wider mix of people and perspectives\. \- After the structured part\, you’re free to mix and mingle with anyone\. **Here's a typical discussion flow, but we may adjust this depending on the turnout:** \- Introductions and initial thoughts *(\~5 mins).* \- Group breakouts per question *(\~20 mins x 3).* \- Final round of opinions *(\~10 mins)*. \- Mix and mingle\, make new friends\, get drinks etc *(\~until late)* **Rules & etiquette:** 1\. Debate the topic\, not the participants \- no personal attacks please\. 2\. No phones\, no interrupting\, no bystanding\. 3\. Always follow the moderator/host instructions and guidelines\. **WHAT IS WORLD CITIZENS?** We're one of London's longest-running and largest communities. Since 2012 we run socials, cultural activities and stimulating discussions to foster meaningful exchange and learning among London's global professionals. They are inspired by MUN (Model United Nations) and salon discussions and offer a more relaxed and social evening version. **LOCATION DETAILS** What: Discussion session followed by social/networking When: Tuesday, 7:30pm until late. Where: Curzon Aldgate (bar area), 2 Canter Way, E1 8PS Closest stations: Aldgate East, Aldgate, Tower Hill/Gateway Cost: Pay for your own meals or drinks Hosts: We have a rotating team and the actual host of each event varies. Our regular members can also help you out with basic matters. *NOTE: like most guests, our volunteer hosts join after work and may arrive after the start time. If you are punctual or earlier than our hosts, we highly appreciate this! Please feel free to start socializing already and/or get something to eat or drink - that’s the point of our events anyway! Our regular members can also help you out with any basic matters.* **\*Our other weekly events\*** \- Friday evening socials every week \- Saturday afternoon cafe in Chelsea \- Canary Wharf socials every other Wednesday \- Outdoor fun \(hiking\, kayaking\, etc\) every weekend \- Dining\, cultural and travel activities on\-demand **JOIN OUR TEAM!** We're all volunteers, so if you enjoy organizing activities or events in your spare time, while meeting great people every week, send a message to our team account "TP"! **DISCLAIMER** We are a 100% volunteer-run team. Though we have high standards in planning, this is a private informal activity so we cannot be liable for any damage or inconvenience. However, we put safety and comfort first. We take all complaints seriously, and take severe action against any harassment, verbal or non-verbal, and anti-social behaviour, towards our guests or team members. We collaborate with the police when needed. We take photos and videos which may include you to help promote the community in line with GDPR Data Protection law, as well as stock photos from Pexels or Unsplash. We may restrict or prioritize guests at our own discretion for safety, quality and logistics reasons. While our team's decisions may not be perfect we ask that you follow our decisions first and raise any disputes to discuss with us later and privately. By attending you understand, agree with and respect all terms of this disclaimer.

**Open debate and discussion in small rotating groups of 3-6 people, based on the existing propositions from the Political Compass Quiz and original propositions submitted by members (Controversy Corner) to be presented in '(strongly) agree/disagree' format** **How the event works:** **Intro:** 0-20 min: **Welcomes and introductions for new members**. We come together in one big group and explain the format/framework for the discussion. A wide-ranging series of propositions will be read out from the political compass quiz, and people will be invited to step up and provide their own controversial statements (Controversy Corner) for debating. People will take a vote on topics of interest and self-organise with assistance from the host into smaller groups for meaningful discussion **Main:** 30mins x 3: **Small group discussions x3** Each group will have a moderator whose job is to control the discussion, ensuring fair participation from all members, and bring the discussion back to the question if it strays excessively Discussion begins with a quick instinctive vote on the proposition; if all members agree can play devil's advocate or pick a new proposition to spark more debate Then the discussion of the proposition and the taking of a vote at the end of the discussion, noting any changes in the proposition **End**: 15 mins: all groups come back together to share interesting insights you heard from OTHER people Feel free to stay after and extend the discussion and enjoy a drink or two but the hosted/organised portion of the event will end here. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Further information about the Political Compass Quiz and Controversy Corner format can be found here: https://luma.com/n2tpm9dr * \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- GENERAL RULES/PRINCIPLES: \- This is meant to be a fun environment\, please put this first before anything else\, bring an open mind and warmth\, the objective here is not to convince anyone of your opinions\, nor intellectual showboating\, but rather state your case freely\, learn new perspectives\, and possibly make new connections with someone with a different worldview and background from yourself \- Opinions and ideologies may be different and even controversial or extreme\, but abuse/harassment or threats against individual members is unacceptable\, and you will be asked to leave IMMEDIATELY\. Keep discussions general\, focused on issues\, not personal differences\. \- Please bring active energy and a willingness to suggest topics or take a clear preference on what to discuss or not to discuss; discourse is better when everyone is invested and contributing \- This group is not free therapy to unload your vexations with the world\, consider that you may be wrong and that other people have opinions that are different to yours :\) \- Invite other people into the discussion if you notice they haven't said anything in a while \- If you don't like your small group discussion\, please feel free to arrange yourself into another group\, or speak to me about any concerns

This **in-person theatre** and **livestream** talk is available online from Gresham College to Basingstoke Science subscribers. **ADVANCE BOOKING AND PAYMENT IS REQUIRED FOR THIS TALK.** **More details and booking instructions on the Gresham web site:** **[https://www.gresham.ac.uk/speakers/professor-robin-may](https://www.gresham.ac.uk/speakers/professor-robin-may)** **SUMMARY** #### Part of: **[AI As Your Overlord: Assimilation, Acceptance or Resistance?](https://www.gresham.ac.uk/watch-now/series/ai-overlord)** In this last lecture, I will work to wake us from the AI as Overlord spell. We will explore other possible futures, looking first look at the potential of AI fitting in with us: things we can chat to; humanoid robots; or even devices that draw on understandings of pets to make them more palatable and pleasing. Secondly, I’ll suggest a way to weave AI into everyday life: as a “simple” instrument to enable our souls to sing. **LIVESTREAM TIMING** **The livestream will go live at 5.55pm, and the introduction will begin at 6.00pm. If you register but miss the livestream, the video will be available to you via the same link for two weeks after the event date.** For more information on livestreams, see the information below, or [visit our FAQs page](https://www.rigb.org/whats/faqs-ri-livestreams). Please use the event link you have been provided with. Gresham College has offered an outstanding education to the public free of charge for over 400 years. Today, Gresham College plays an important role in fostering a love of learning and a greater understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Please consider making a donation on their web site to support the work of Gresham College.

This is a **theatre** and **livestream** talk from the **Royal Institution of Great Britain.** Join a team of forensic scientists for an immersive, demo-filled event taking us through the process of analysing and solving a crime, plus a look at the new technology changing the way DNA is analysed. **ADVANCE BOOKING AND PAYMENT IS REQUIRED FOR THIS TALK.** **More details and booking instructions on the RI web site:** **[https://www.rigb.org/whats-on/forensics-how-solve-crime](https://www.rigb.org/whats-on/forensics-how-solve-crime)** **SUMMARY** We are used to media depictions of forensic science, but what does the real process look like? And how are new technologies changing the face of modern forensics? In this unique event, a team of forensic specialists from around the UK will come together to guide you through a fictional case. Discover how the **SCAnDi** project could revolutionise the world of forensics by allowing scientists to trace DNA from a single cell, and therefore “unmix” the messy DNA profiles of multiple people often found at crime scenes. Scientific investigation of a crime involves a multidisciplinary team, and through the use of intricate recreation crime scenes and demonstrations, this event will explore how these individuals can come together to uncover crucial evidence. Ranging from DNA analysis to soil science, you'll have the chance to discover real forensic science used to solve crimes. **This event will cover sensitive material which some may find upsetting, including physical violence, sexual assault, death and suicide. It is suitable for those aged 16+.** This is a theatre and livestream event for an adult audience, where the speakers and audience in our Theatre are joined by our audience online. **The livestream will go live around 7.25pm, and the talk will begin at 7.30pm. If you register but miss the livestream, the video will be available to you via the same link for two weeks after the event date.** For more information on livestreams, see the information below, or [visit our FAQs page](https://www.rigb.org/whats/faqs-ri-livestreams). Please use the event link you have been provided with. By booking to attend events at the Royal Institution, you confirm that you have read and accept the Ri's [event terms and conditions](https://www.rigb.org/terms-and-conditions). You also agree to abide by [our code of conduct](https://www.rigb.org/about-us/how-were-run/our-code-conduct-ri-visitors), and help to create a great experience for yourself and your fellow participants.

Share and discuss music that touches your soul. An hour of eclectic music and stories. Bring a song or music track which inspires you to share with the group, led by Kate and Adam. Heartspaces at Essex Hall is a vibrant and welcoming Unitarian hub in central London, open to spiritual seekers, existing Unitarians and curious newcomers. The Heartspaces programme is a series of weekly spiritual gatherings led by Unitarian ministers and volunteers across London. From regular pagan ceremonies to the spirituality events every Thursday evening, Heartspaces encourages people to gather, share and discover together. Whether you are a seasoned Unitarian, a spiritual searcher or simply curious, find your space to grow.

This **in-person theatre** and **livestream** talk is available online from Gresham College to Basingstoke Science subscribers. **ADVANCE BOOKING AND PAYMENT IS REQUIRED FOR THIS TALK.** **More details and booking instructions on the Gresham web site:** **[https://www.gresham.ac.uk/whats-on/pluto-planet](https://www.gresham.ac.uk/whats-on/pluto-planet)** **SUMMARY** #### Part of: **[The State of Our Universe](https://www.gresham.ac.uk/watch-now/series/state-universe)** In 2006, the International Astronomical Union adopted a definition of a planet that demoted Pluto to just one of what is likely hundreds of dwarf planets in our Solar System. Exploring the remote Kuiper Belt, this lecture challenges us to think about what kinds of scientific questions are worth our attention, what it means to name something – and why Pluto is worth caring about anyway. **LIVESTREAM TIMING** **The livestream will go live at 6.55pm, and the introduction will begin at 7.00pm. If you register but miss the livestream, the video will be available to you via the same link for two weeks after the event date.** For more information on livestreams, see the information below, or [visit our FAQs page](https://www.rigb.org/whats/faqs-ri-livestreams). Please use the event link you have been provided with. Gresham College has offered an outstanding education to the public free of charge for over 400 years. Today, Gresham College plays an important role in fostering a love of learning and a greater understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Please consider making a donation on their web site to support the work of Gresham College.

I have been studying the question of "self" online with Prof. Ellie Anderson and so I thought a prompt on the "self" might be interesting. Full confession: I had Claude create this prompt and I like it, so here goes: Imagine a thought experiment that merges two classic puzzles: > You undergo a procedure, performed neuron by neuron, in which every biological component of your brain is replaced with a functionally identical synthetic substitute. At each step, your behavior, memories, and personality remain unchanged. When the last neuron is swapped, is the consciousness experiencing the world still you? And — more pressingly — was there ever a continuous "you" to begin with? ### Questions to Wrestle With * If consciousness is purely physical, does the *gradual* nature of the replacement matter, or is it equivalent to being destroyed and rebuilt? * Could there be a "self" without continuity of experience — even moment to moment, while you sleep? On a more practical level, consider the simpler case first: **hemispherectomy** patients — people who have had an entire cerebral hemisphere surgically removed — often retain a strong sense of personal identity and continuity. This suggests "you" are not rigidly tied to specific physical material. But does that vindicate the synthetic neuron case, or merely show that identity is more *flexible* than we thought — not that it can survive *complete* substrate replacement? I used Claude so I could get this out today and let everyone have some time to consider it. Hope to see you at the Oracle. Sorry about the location change two weeks ago. That's what I get for trusting local weather predictions!

Let’s meet and share discussion of the James Baldwin short story collection, Going to Meet The Man.

Join us as we get together for a Discount Tuesday / Horror-Thriller Pop-Up event to see the very buzzed-about psychological-horror from A24, BACKROOMS! Chiwetel Ejiofor, Renate Reinsve and Mark Duplass star in this film about a therapist, a missing patient and a strange doorway. Here are details, a trailer and our plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: After a therapist's patient disappears into a dimension beyond reality, she must venture into the unknown to save him. The film is directed by Kane Parsons and stars Chiwetel Ejiofor, Renate Reinsve (who was outstanding in The Worst Person in the World and Sentimental Value), Mark Duplass, Finn Bennett and Lukita Maxwell. TRAILER: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2z6a6NUFlsU](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2z6a6NUFlsU) BUZZ & EXCITEMENT: Buzz and expectations are off the charts! And over the past week, box office projections have more than doubled as theaters are left scrambling to add showtimes for a film that keeps selling out! Critics call the film “gripping,” “as mesmerizing as it is terrifying” and say it “casts a surrealist spell that’s unlike anything else in contemporary cinema!” It’s an “intellectual puzzle” filled with “unnerving suspense” that’s earning a Certified Fresh 89% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes! PLAN: Purchase your ticket for the 6:30pm showing and meet in the theater lobby between 6:10 and 6:20pm! Discount Tuesday tickets just $5.00! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments below! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

Main Library, Meeting Room 2B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.

We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another. Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us. Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.

Let's stroll the artists' booths and enjoy some of the festival's opening day! The Columbus Art Festival features a wide and vibrant range of visual art from local and national exhibitors, plus, live music, and all kinds of food and refreshments, along the waterfront downtown. (The featured painting is by Columbus Arts Festival exhibitor, Joe Engel - joe-engelart.com)

If you are interested in selecting investment choices for your 401(k) or other workplace savings plan, minimizing your income tax liability, or identifying the most effective investments for your brokerage account, we are the group for you. We are a local chapter of Bogleheads, whose investment strategy can be found here: https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy Or you can peruse the Boglehead forum here: https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php I look forward to seeing you there. Mark Vonder Haar