Intellectual Discussions

A monthly gathering in Central London to talk about the Equal Satisfaction idea (see "About us...." section for a description of this). Anyone welcome and other topics may also be discussed. Due to low attendance it's currently merged with a more general meeting in which Equal Satisfaction is discussed alongside other ideas intended to make the world better, e.g. citizen's income and land tax.

Time is precious. Here we value non-boring valuable chats and interactions that are fully engaging, soulfully enriching, inspiring, and leave you a bit wiser than when you arrived. In that spirit (mind the pun!), today’s fully hosted laid back social coffee chat will offer a perfect haven for the inquisitive & curious - those drawn to the mysteries of the universe, life and everything in between. A tasty caffeine infused fun afternoon of thought-provoking causal chats exploring spirituality/consciousness and related interconnected topics spanning **philosophy,** **neuroscience**, **parapsychology,** **paranormal.** **cosmology** and **noetic sciences** over a mug of sweet coffee (or amazin value Chardonnay!) Chaired by me - a former Reuters journalist & published empirical researcher exploring spirituality topics in pursuant of the "truth" since a teenager, there'll be no strict structure - a relaxed friendly space to openly chat, exchange ideas & experiences without judgement, but I'll preside to promote inclusivity and zone in on specifics to avoid people digressing onto unrelated tangents to ensure like all of our events - particpants derive maximum utlity and engagement from attending. We’ll touch on everything from the limits of scientific understanding to exploring the unexplained using practical fun exploratory divination practices drawing on elements of **psychology, metaphysics, epistemology** and **statistical** **probability** of rare events as we do so. Whether you're a practicing "spiritualist", a curious skeptic, or just someone who loves deep conversation on **life’s big questions**, you’ll hopefully walk away more enlightened with some practical tips you can start applying and inspired to explore more! As well as illuminating chats to guide self-reflection, obviously no sprituality event woul be complete without practical tools so there'll be FREE Tarot & I-Ching readings, demonstrations of meditation method to activate super powerful gamma brain waves, and pyschic tests for a bit of fun, laughter & intrigue! **Sample of conversational threads** might include: Are we mere organisms pursuing biological survival or does consciousness exist beyond neurons firing in our brains? What explains peoples' paranormal experiences? What would reality look like If our brains were limitless? Declassified CIA files show that as as well as mind control experiments, the US govt employed mediums and remote viewers. If all mumbo jumbo then why? Is Nirvana just a fantasy of deluded people? Does everything happen for a reason? To clarify - we define spirituality here as an exploration of consciousness, Donald Rumsfeld's unknown unknowns and undiscovered aspects of reality, NOT religion. After all, as my philosophy professor once rightly postulated to me: "If God created Adam, who created God Lucas?" Yep - that inconvenient flaw **debunks every fairytale religion** out there including the oldest religion of them all - paganism - so why is witchcraft still practised outside of **Hogwarts** today? I may also share the latest peer reviewed empirical evidence surrounding **paranormal** and **consciousness** phenomena. **=== POTENTIAL CONVERSATION STARTERS ===** 1. Does consciousness survive death or is Cambridge Astrophysics Professor Brian Cox right in asserting if **ghosts** existed then particle accelerators at CERN would have already detected ghost molecules making Ouija boards kids play? Are Poltergiests 100% hoax? Brain scans indicate thalamocortical circuits in our brain (pathways in the parietal cortex & central lateral thalamus) drive **consciousness -** so how can spirit/mind live on after **brain death**? 2. Is **synchronicity/coincidence** simply randomness disguised in the eye of the beholder or can what Einstein called “spooky action at a distance" (quantum entanglement) explain it? Molecular Biologists have shown that just like plants - our cells give off resonant frequencies between 10 & 180 kilohertz - could this be a source of non-verbal communication like telepathy? 3. Given **neuroscience**'s infancy with much yet undiscovered - could mediation help access functions outside of our BAU alpha & beta brain wave states? Can **Kundalini yoga** boost **DMT** (dimethyltryptamine) naturally vs drugs like ayahuasca, mushrooms, LSDand if so by what mechanism? Do the artifically created neural signatures using magnetic stimulation observed during mystical experiences debunk them? Is the Maharishi Effect real? 4. Are clairvoyants and mediums just good people readers or are they really able to access time and space in non-linear ways? Is Tyler Henry the real deal or just faking it? Was **Abraham Lincolm** precognizant when he dreamt his own fatal assignation? 5. The laws of statistical probability, Drake Equation & common sense tells us there is other non-microbial life out there. So what explains the Fermi Paradox? Was that 1976 WOW signal aliens? How about the recent strange bahaviour of Boyajian's star or Oumuamua/Atlas interstella object that has just entered our solar system? 6. Could metaverse explain deja vu & reincarnation vs theories from the **psychology** literature (Mandela Effect?) or do we just live in a **simulation** as **Elon Musk** proposes? 7. **Stephen Hawking** once said: "The past, like the future, is indefinite and exists only as a spectrum of possibilities" If matter only manifests when observed as the double slit experiments shows, does that mean everything is consciousness? Does the discovery of *quantum superposition /* disappearing neutrons imply **parallel universes**? 8. Do NDEs suggest something beyond physicality? Were Steve Jobs final words "Oh wow. Oh wow. Oh wow" before he died (New York Times) visions of an afterlife or just neurochemical changes / drugs playing tricks? 9. Can photons omitted by our bodies explain auras that people see? 10. Could limits in our understanding of quantum physics, space and time explain paranormal experiences? 11. What existed before the **big bang** \- how do you get something from "nothing"? I believe our reality is the product of a black hole\. What you reckon? ***So how do we get to the "truth"?*** Both in my journalism days and applying the most advanced empirical research techniques in my client consulting work - it becomes clear the truth is often elusive. No matter how much we triangulate evidence - we can only provide part answers. "All models are wrong, but some are useful" George Box What we think we know and reality diverge leading to that great **paradox of knowledge.** And as the boundary between knowns and unknown converge, we end up with cognitive dissonance and more questions. In that spirit - every credible philosopher & scientist acknowledges - we'll never get to the complete truth but could **experimental methods** get us closer to it? A balanced approach guided by Immanuel Kant's pragmatism and Aristotle's deductive reasoning seems the most rationale framework here but are there any other methodologies? How about the **"spirituality"** toolkit? **=== RENDEZVOUS POINT ===** We will meet inside the pub upstairs - located in Islington, 4 seconds walk from Highbury & Islington station or 12 mins from Angel station. l I'll be wearing a **Starwars identifier** and will share mobile hotline just before event start and table number/location. For stargazing we will walk to park 5 mins away around 7.30pm Lucas - The Unenlightened Desperately Seeking Answer

All are welcome to this bonus Meetup! Celebrate Easter Monday at The Liberty Bounds Wetherspoon, Tower Hill 🍻

This evening class explores these questions through Plato’s dialogue *Laches*, using the discussion of courage as a gateway into much wider issues about language, knowledge, and authority. When Socrates asks for a strict definition of bravery, he raises a problem that later re-emerges in analytic philosophy with figures such as Gottlob Frege, Bertrand Russell, and Ludwig Wittgenstein: can words always be captured by strict definitions, or does language do more than simply label neatly defined concepts? We will consider whether the search for exact definitions is always productive, what this means for ideas such as art, music, and virtue, and how different models of language shape contemporary debates, including those surrounding artificial intelligence. Along the way, we examine the nature of expertise, the limits of authority, the role of trust in knowledge, and the Socratic method as a discipline of intellectual humility and moral self-scrutiny. Once again, no prior knowledge of philosophy is required. Further details here: https://www.adrianbrockless.com/evening-classes

**Join us for another LoMAZ Unlimited event, this time visiting the 'Sufi Life and Art' free exhibition at the British Museum.** **Unlike our regular events (which often have waitlists), our Unlimited ones have no cap on numbers. They're a social for everyone, and a great way to see what we're about.** **❓ How do our Unlimited events work?** * We **meet in the museum cafe** first. * Then we **look** **around 1-3 rooms in the museum for around 50 minutes.** * You're free to wander around the rooms at your own pace or explore with other members of the group. * **This isn't a guided tour of the rooms.** We simply limit the number of rooms we visit so it's more manageable with a larger group than usual. Each event we choose a different theme or time period to explore. * **After this, we head to the pub!** **THE PLAN:** **2:00-2.40pm: MEET AND GREET IN BRITISH MUSEUM COURT CAFE** Look for the hosts wearing LoMAZ badges. **2:40pm-3.30pm: GO TO 'SUFI LIFE AND ART' FREE EXHIBITION, ROOM 43a ON UPPER FLOOR** This can be found within The Albukhary Foundation Gallery of the Islamic world: *'This display will explore Sufi life and art through a selection of objects that represent Sufi communities in the Middle East, North and Sub-Saharan Africa, and northern India. This mystical movement, which first appeared in the Islamic world during the eighth century AD, has been defined as a pathway to a personal experience with God.'* **Read more** **[here](https://www.britishmuseum.org/exhibitions/sufi-life-and-art).** **Find the museum map** **[here.](https://www.britishmuseum.org/sites/default/files/2025-10/British_Museum_map.pdf)** **3.30pm: LEAVE MUSEUM TO WALK TO PUB** **3:45pm: PUB SOCIAL** We'll head to the The Penderel's Oak pub. Address: 283-288 High Holborn, London WC1V 7HP. We were not able to reserve tables this time, unfortunately. [https://maps.app.goo.gl/1PF1LDymBw8Jcabn9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/1PF1LDymBw8Jcabn9) **TICKETS:** **⚠️ ⛔️ There are now no more tickets left for this date.** The museum reached full capacity when we last visited and staff stopped anyone without a ticket entering. ***As we are attending on Easter Monday, if you don't have a pre-booked ticket or are not a member there is a good chance you won't be let in. ⚠️ ⛔️*** **GETTING THERE:** **Address:** British Museum, Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG Find more information **[here.](https://www.britishmuseum.org/visit#getting-here)** **EVENT WHATSAPP GROUP:** As our Unlimited events can get quite busy, we'll have a WhatsApp group for this event to help you find the group on the day. ***See Event Comments for the link.*** **FINALLY:** **Please change your RSVP to 'no' if you can no longer attend, so the hosts know who to look out for.** **Thank you for your interest in the group & being part of LoMAZ.** Image: Ceramic tile, Türkiye, around 1700, from the collection.

🌌Ever look up and marvel with insatiable curiosity at the beauty and wonder of the **universe?** That wild sobering thought that somewhere in the chaos of creation - the emergence of life - the universe became **conscious** enough to look back in time and not just ask the existential questions, but try to answer them. And now, in our own small moment of cosmic history, as we return to the Moon aboard the most powerful rocket ever built, the **Artemis mission** carries that ancient curiosity forward. As the manned **Orion spacecraft** -currently just 18k miles from the moon - reaches its closest approach, join for the last chance to view the **Orion Nebula** through a telescope as the historic lunar rendezvous unfolds above us. 🚀 **But there’s more celestial wonder**: As those four astronauts venture deepest into space than any humans have ever been before - we’ll tale a look at **Venus,** **Jupiter** along with planet's potential life‑harbouring **moons**, iconic beautiful **star fields**, the remnants of supernovae witnessed by our earliest ancestors, **multi‑star systems** reminiscent of the twin suns of *Star Wars* and even **Tau Ceti**, a star hosting two Earth‑like worlds in its habitable zone. All of this under the spring evening - with drinks, engaging conversation, and good‑natured banter — this April. In between observing - we'll have **drinks and engaging chats** on all astronomy related topics for those inclined: Space exploration \| Fermi Paradox \| Astrobiology \| Cosmology \| paleontology\, \| SETI & Drake Equation for alien civilisations estimates \| exoplanetology etc as well as non space chats and banter too\. No doubt we'll hear the usual jokes we've all heard before\! If those don't make you laugh\, my impersonation of Los Angeles ET will\! 👽 And to help set the mood and make the night feel even extra galactic, I’ll put my DJ hat to play some space‑themed tunes and songs about the stars! You don't need a telescope as you will be able to view through scopes belonging to me and other club members (as long as you behave responsibly and don't temper with expensive equipment). If you have your own telescope/binoculars feel free to bring along and I can help you setting it up if you're a newbie **==== ITINERARY =====** We will meet outside H&I Station in Highbury Islington. After a short wait for anyone delayed, I will escort everyone to our observation point in the local park 5 minutes walk away and brief you in terms of what to expect, observing etiquette, tips, equipment handling and take any questions you have - weather general or astronomy/cosmology related. **After Drinks:** Unless I have a very important 9AM Tue deadline for a unfinished client presentation or something - most of us usually head to a cosy bar for a drink. If so - I will annouce the pub when we leave the park **==== What Can You Expect To See (this time of year)? ====** * Orion Nebula * Jupiter and 4 moons * Meteors * Andromedia Galaxy * Star clusters such as the Pleiades & Owl Cluster etc * International Space station fly by * Binary & tripple star systems (think planet *Tatooine in* Starwars!), * Neptune * Uranuus * Our moon * A look towards the galactic centre of the Mlikyway where that supermassive £22b Labour black hole sits (Sagittarius A) More here from Jodrell Bank Observatory/Astrophysics Centre: [http://www.jb.man.ac.uk/astronomy/nightsky/](http://www.jb.man.ac.uk/astronomy/nightsky/) Guide to viewing the cosmos for beginners: [https://phys.org/news/2018-05-universe-distant-starstips-cosmology-backyard.html#jCp](https://phys.org/news/2018-05-universe-distant-starstips-cosmology-backyard.html#jCp) **===Weather Dependent=====** The event is subject to clear skies forecasts on the night so if on the actual afternoon of the event the weather forecasts looks unsuitable beyond doubt then I will postpone so please check the event status on the day of the event . If this event is still listed here at 5PM on the day, it will be going ahead at the designated day and time! Lucas Skywalker - The Singin, Dancin, DJ-in Astronomer

Have you ever wanted to gather together and talk about insightful topics which broadens your thinking and knowledge? If so, this may be the right event for you. Welcome to the ‘Deep conversations’ event where you get the opportunity to share your views based on the topics that we may cover. The last time this was executed, it not only went well but we managed to learn from one another which broadened our thinking. With this particular event, the topics we’ll discuss are: * Tell me your first holiday you ever went to and if so, what do you remember. * What’s your opinion on why travelling is great. * Have you ever been to your motherland and if so, what did you learn and experience? * What do you appreciate about the uk compared to your experiences abroad? * If there was any other place you would go to, where would you go and why? * Tell me one of your most precious memories when you went on holiday. We get so preoccupied with daily life that we hardly have a chance to sit back and think as well as discuss many topics in such depth. When was the last time you sat back and thought about anything in depth which opened your eyes to so many possibilities and broadened your thinking? Now is your chance to share your views and learn from one another. By participating in this, you could broaden your ways of thinking, learn new lessons or even heal if you have your hidden struggles. My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy WHAT - Deep conversations
WHERE - Oak & Pastor
WHEN - 6:45pm - 9pm
MEETING POINT - In the back Garden of Oak & Pastor
NEAREST STATION - Archway Station & Upper Holloway Station
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour and respect on one’s opinions. Since it’s in a pub, please bring ID just incase PRECAUTIONS - This event is capped so if you do RSVP but can’t make it, please change it to ‘not going’ so it enable others willing to attend to be marked as ‘going’. If you do mark yourselves as going, don’t change your RSVP and don’t attend, the next time another event such as this takes place and you rsvp, you will be marked as ‘not going’ as it’s possible you may make commit the same action. Please be mindful about the opportunities for others who are willing to attend. Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. If you ask a question that either already has the answer to it or doesn’t relate to the event at all, I won’t respond. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

Every day you look at the news on your phone and you are shown a perspective on multiple events, vivid pictures, videos, and explanations that decide for you what to think. When you come out of your bubble and try to talk to others, you realise they have the wrong perspective. You assumed they saw the same undeniable evidence you did, with the same explanations. But each person is shown a perspective tailored to them, believable and convincing from where they stand. We moved from relying on our own eyes, to gossip, to the printing press, to radio and TV, and now to news customised to each individual. We moved from Plato's Cave, where we were all chained side by side experiencing the same shadows, to isolation, each of us with our own unique shadows. In Plato's Cave they were wrong together. Are we more lost being wrong alone? Is your bubble protecting you or trapping you? Can we build a shared world if we can't share a shared reality? Learn more about [the allegory of the cave](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allegory_of_the_cave). \*Please do your own research and share resources related to this topic in the comment section\* #======# Donation! Thank you for being a member. I have made a donation page for those who want to help with the costs. [https://examinedlife.uk/donation/](https://examinedlife.uk/donation/) #======# Group chat We have a telegram group chat and here is a link for the front door: [https://t.me/+o9T9DL5u6AcwMmRk](https://t.me/+o9T9DL5u6AcwMmRk) #======# The Examined Life, "Let's Discuss..." session is an open discussion. The format of this event will be: 13:15 - Free flow group discussion about the topic. 14:00 ish - We will be splitting into smaller groups for more engaging discussion about what interests each of you. 16:00 - End of the official meetup. Most often attendees stay and continue discussing up to around 18:00. #======# Please RSVP if you can commit to attending and change your RSVP if something comes up. Inaccurate RSVPs can keep potential attendees on the waiting list and makes it difficult to plan for room sizes and bookings. Art work: Platos Allegory of the Cave 1604 by Jan Saenredam

**📢 Date Change: Sunday, April 12th. Apologies for any inconvenience.** 📚 **In our next Book Club, we ask: Is there a King (or Queen) inside all of us?** We are discussing the concepts of **Archetypal Energy**—universal personality patterns found in Jungian psychology. Our guide for the discussion is “King, Warrior, Magician, Lover” by Moore and Gillette. Don't let the title fool you; while the book focuses on men, we will be debating whether these structures (and their feminine counterparts) are universal to everyone. **Are archetypes a biological reality for both genders?** **POTENTIAL DISCUSSION POINTS:** * **Are personalities hard-wired?** Jung suggests we are born with deep-seated instincts like the "King" (Order) or "Lover" (Connection). Do you feel these forces exist inside you, or are they just made-up metaphors? * **Are these energies gender-specific?** While the book focuses on men, many argue there is a mirrored "feminine" quadrant: **Queen, Mother, Wise Woman, and Lover**. Is this symmetry real, or does the female psyche require a totally different map (like Toni Wolff's Mother, Amazon, Medium, & Hetaira)? * **Is "Boy Psychology" to blame for toxic behavior?** The authors argue society is full of adults acting like children because we lack "initiation" into adulthood. Does this explain modern "toxic masculinity," and is there a roadmap to fix it? * **Have you met the "Shadow" forms?** The book argues that when these energies are unbalanced, they turn dark (e.g., the King becomes a Tyrant). Have you seen these shadow behaviors in your boss, your partner, or even yourself? \-\-\-\-\- **Prior to meeting, please read/engage in the summaries of the book to ensure a fruitful discussion:** **Buy the book** “King, Warrior, Magician, Lover” by Moore and Gillette - https://www.amazon.co.uk/King-Warrior-Magician-Lover-Rediscovering/dp/0062506064 **Read or Listen for Free:** * **Download the PDF:** https://pdfroom.com/books/king-warrior-magician-lover-rediscovering-the-archetypes-of-the-mature-masculine/Y6R2XwP2gZ3 * **Listen to the Audiobook (YouTube):** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKwwHPV9IyA **Watch some of the online content about the books:** There are several great video summaries on YouTube to get up to speed quickly: * **The 4 Archetypes of the Mature Masculine (Animated Summary):** * **King, Warrior, Magician, Lover (Deep Dive):** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmS4bGb3bAE **GROUND RULES:** This is a nice gentle, but thought-provoking, discussion. It's a judgement-free zone where people can air their thoughts on particular issues, and find out about other people's similar and different perspectives. So bring your best opinions and ideas. Everyone is welcome. **LOCATION:** We will meet in the 1st floor area of Coffee Island Edgware Road. There's plenty of space 🛋️, and coffee ☕, tea ☕ cold drinks, and snacks are available. **NEAREST STATIONS:** Edgware Road [Circle, Hammersmith City, District Line] (1 min walk) Edgware Road [Bakerloo Line] (1 min walk) Paddington [Bakerloo, Hammersmith, Circle and Elizabeth Line] (7 mins walk) *** **FOOD AND SOCIAL AFTERWARDS:** Most of us usually go for food afterwards, so feel free to factor in time after for dinner 🍛🍟🍝🍣🍜🍗🍔[[1](https://www.google.com/url?sa=E&q=https%3A%2F%2Fvertexaisearch.cloud.google.com%2Fgrounding-api-redirect%2FAUZIYQHptkYz2sFtCRSYgOMBKW_B4xcdg0X0p6-LNHkTAcyIXKifChRlbPQzLVYJqgskrwyP0ekRXF89O9H8TBlis0p-nKruBtC7qK3w_Yq_x8xTSO9KcpzcNs-K0zDb5KDYH6BjdzjLLx4%3D)]

Many say that "dating your own race" or "racial/ethnic preference" are natural choices - but history shows how many countries tried to *stop* different races from mixing: from racial purity laws in the US and Nazi Germany, to Saudi Arabia's current ban on marrying foreigners, apartheid in South Africa, segregation and eugenics, and bans on marrying someone from a different religion. While mixing was common in ancient empires and trade routes, race is now a common "filter" in apps and dating advice. Is this really just a matter of personal taste, or is there an element of prejudice and politics? We'll discuss: 1\. Is racial preference really natural \- and why have countries tried to prohibit different races\, ethnicities and religions mixing? 2\. Do modern dating ideas on race/ethnicity/culture carry political goals\, e\.g\. racial purity\, cultural conformism\, etc? 3\. How to tell whether it's preference\, prejudice or politics\, in our daily lives? *Join us for a relaxed group conversation where we explore the real life, the 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 structure, 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.

Rushmore is a 1998 American comedy film directed by Wes Anderson about a teenager named Max Fischer (Jason Schwartzman in his film debut), his friendship with rich industrialist Herman Blume (Bill Murray), and their shared affection for elementary school teacher Rosemary Cross (Olivia Williams). The film was co-written by Anderson and Owen Wilson. The film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 2016, deemed "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant". Please note we will not be showing the film at the meeting. Make sure you watch the film before you attend and then come and join in with the conversation. It’s just a discussion. It’s not a screening. We will be meeting in The Ludski Bar in the Rio Cinema. [https://www.riocinema.org.uk/your-visit/](https://www.riocinema.org.uk/your-visit/) You are welcome to bring outside food in with you but please buy your drinks from inside the cinema. Thank you. ... To join the All Out of Bubblegum Film Club WhatsApp Group please click here: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/J2to1MBd4Ct7kQTFFVnyML](https://chat.whatsapp.com/J2to1MBd4Ct7kQTFFVnyML) (in order to stop spam bots this will take you to a Waiting Room. Once in please write your name and we will join you to the main chat). If the link doesn't work then please send me a message with your phone number and I can add you directly. Meetup charges subscription fees. If you would like to make a donation please click here: [https://paypal.me/philosophycollective](https://paypal.me/philosophycollective)

**This House Regrets The Social Stigma on Pornography** **Why Are We Having This Debate?** Porn has been at the heart of social debate for years. With the rise and awareness of porn addiction to the UK government requiring ID verification to access your preffered website the conversation around porn has become increasingly hostile. **BUT** Many sex positive activists have been speaking out against the narrative that porn is inherently bad and that actually, we may have been wrong about porn in the first place and that the stigma driving people to use porn in secret and feel shame for their use of it as the real harm that we are all engaging in by viewing porn as an inherent bad. **So we ask** \- Have we been wrong about porn this whole time? **Articles** **[Porn: Is It Bad For You - Medical News Today](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-porn-bad "https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-porn-bad")** **[Pornography Use Among British Adults - PubMed](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12011978/ "https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12011978/")** **[Therapists Report "Out of Control" Porn Use In Men - The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/jan/03/more-than-half-of-uk-therapists-report-rise-in-out-of-control-porn-use "https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/jan/03/more-than-half-of-uk-therapists-report-rise-in-out-of-control-porn-use")** **Come Along and Have Your Vote!** **What We Do** 3v3 panel debate where our members explore the strongest arguments for a given topic. A debate should tell the audience what they need to know and not just what the speakers think. If you feel the same way, then we want to meet you. Debate London is the year-round series of free public debates held weekly at venues across the capital. The series is run by Debate London, a social enterprise that helps its members to advance their personal and professional development by teaching them how to debate. All of our speakers are [Debate London members](https://www.debate.london/plans "https://www.debate.london/plans") who have agreed to defend a particular perspective the audience need to hear, rather than just share their own personal opinion. After presenting the point of view assigned to them, the audience are then given the floor to cross-examine them and share their own position. The only time we hear what the speakers really think is at the end of the debate when they tell us where they really stand and whether this changed at all while learning how to defend the perspective assigned to them. **After Debate Social** After all of our debates we have a post debate hang-out. This is a chance for our community to get to know new people, explore new ideas and generally have more fun as a club! Come along and join us for a post-debate social! **Venue** Our venues serve drinks (alcoholic and soft drinks) as well as brilliant food. All can be ordered from the bar **Do not bring external food or drink into our venues you will be asked to throw it away or to finish it outside. - This is a venue rule which we need to follow.**

This is a **theatre** and **livestream** talk from the **Royal Institution of Great Britain.** Get a fascinating look at animal biology with a live dissection of an animal as part of a full afternoon of wonder for all ages. **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/animal-dissection-live](https://www.rigb.org/whats-on/animal-dissection-live)** **SUMMARY** Join **Ben Garrod,** from the **University of East Anglia,** and veterinary surgeon **Jess French** for a very special afternoon at the Ri, with a unique opportunity to find out about the workings of the body at a lion dissection. Across the course of the event, Ben, Jess and their team will dissect the animal in our Theatre, explaining the anatomy as they go, and revealing the fascinating facts it can tell us about our own bodies. During an extended interval, you'll have the opportunity to explore hands-on demonstrations and activities to learn even more about how animal biology works. This event is open to all ages. Ben and Jess are very experienced in presenting this to a younger audience, as well as adults, and we encourage everyone to attend. Attendees will be able to come and go as they please if they require a break during the long sessions. Those who are particularly squeamish may choose to sit further back in the Theatre. **Event timings:** **1:00pm – 2:30pm – Dissection Session 1** **2:30pm – 3:45pm – Interval with pop-up activities** **3:45pm – 5:00pm – Dissection Session 2** **Disclaimer: The animal died of old age and has been donated for the purpose of education. The specific animal is subject to change.** With thanks to University of East Anglia for making this event possible. 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 6.50pm, and the talk 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. 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.

In *City Lights*, Chaplin's Little Tramp meets a blind girl selling flowers who mistakes him for a wealthy man. When he learns that an operation may restore her sight, he sets off to earn the money she needs to have the surgery. He also befriends an alcoholic millionaire who only recognizes him when he is drunk. When the blind girl and her grandmother fall behind in the rent and face eviction, he tries working and even enters a boxing competition to raise the money they need. Regarded as Chaplin's masterpiece, *City Lights* has been ranked on more than seventeen "100 greatest movies of all time" lists. Orson Welles cited it as his favorite picture. *City Lights* is available for streaming on Amazon Prime, Hulu, HBOMax, Tubi and PlutoTV. The Columbus Library lists three copies on blu-ray and eight copies on DVD. Watch the movie on your own, then join us upstairs at East Market to discuss the film.

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

The Humanist Monthly Program is our longest running event and still a community favorite. In the old days it used to be called "Going to HCCO" and we still like to think of it as our flagship event. We will be hearing from Becca Powell, Director of Advocacy and Outreach at Unchained At Last, an organization whose mission is dedication to ending forced and child marriage in the United States through direct services and systems change. Unchained At Last's mission clearly meshes and addresses several of our Humanist Ten Commitments. Becca will educate us about an issue many of us may not be familiar with--but should be. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

Let’s meet and share our thoughts about Carson McCullers’ novella, The Ballad of The Sad Café.

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

...and speaking of breakthrough roles: who can forget the first time we saw Tom Cruise singing Bob Seeger in his underwear? Often considered an updated 1983 version of The Graduate, the movie sparkles with memorable lines and original music. I only regret that I was never told that "Princeton could use someone like Bob..." See the movie first and join us for some "Cruisin'"