Internet Censorship

***"In this complex and terrible development which has carried the epoch of class struggles toward new conditions, the proletariat of the industrial countries has completely lost the affirmation of its autonomous perspective and also, in the last analysis, its illusions, but not its being. It has not been suppressed. It remains irreducibly in existence within the intensified alienation of modern capitalism[.]"*** **\- Guy Debord\, *The Society of the Spectacle*** Welcome back readers! By popular request, we're bringing back (for a new generation of LMRG readers) an old favourite: the always-relevant Guy Debord and his masterful *Society of the Spectacle*. This is meeting two, where we'll be reading the fourth, fifth and sixth chapters. Find the classic text here: https://www.marxists.org/reference/archive/debord/society.htm Or an alternative, possibly more readable translation here: [https://files.libcom.org/files/The%20Society%20of%20the%20Spectacle%20Annotated%20Edition.pdf](https://files.libcom.org/files/The%20Society%20of%20the%20Spectacle%20Annotated%20Edition.pdf) Often maligned as theorymaxxed nonsense but little-read, this slim volume is certainly dense with ideas - all of which carry as much relevance today as those half-forgotten postwar years when the Situationist International made its mark on the world, if not more. With the rise of the Internet and social media, the decline of literacy and the closing of the mass mind, the endless doom-loop of doomscrolling and bed-rotting, increasingly performative protest, the commodification of everything, the Epstein-approved culture war, and the theatre of spectacular cruelty that is imperialist colonial policy from Gaza to Venezuela, we really are living an age where everything that was once directly participated in has passed into representation. Every hand-grip one searches for to get some kind of grasp on the world seems to be a mirage; "participation" in anything, from politics to culture, has been reduced to fandom - limited to nothing more than expressing approval or disapproval through totally mediated social media platforms. Above it all stands an utterly corrupt, irresponsible elite class more and more transparent in how it relishes in conspiratorial play, power-games with unlimited stakes for us and no consequences for them. Such a world where power wears a shit-eating grin and keeps us off our balance by endlessly[ "flooding the zone"](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flood_the_zone) (in Steve Bannon's terms) with distractions so intricate they short-circuit the collective brain is exactly what Debord not only predicted but described in frightening detail, with more than a little bit of humour. So let's dig in and find out: just what can we do to unplug from the spectacle? Is the spectacle even un-plug-from-able? Debord haters, cope and seethe: as a much more orthodox Marxist than he ever gets credit for, there really are some strategies in here. We just need to be creative. Take care and happy reading!

**\*Please note we had to increase the session fees to £15 due to increase in court hire and shuttles.** Thursday Evening Badminton, High Intermediate/ Advanced Date: 23 April 2026 Time: 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm Courts: 3 courts available Shuttles: Feather shuttles are provided Session Fee: £15 per person. TWO HOURS OF DOUBLES - £15, Venue: Maria Fidelis Catholic School FCJ. 1 Drummond Crescent London NW1 1LY This session is for high intermediate and above. You should have played badminton doubles for at least 5 years and possibly received training. You need to know doubles movement and tactics. If your level is too low, it will not be fun for you and we won't let you in a second time. PLEASE PAY BEFORE THE BEGINNING OF THE SESSION EITHER VIA BANK TRANSFER/ PAYPAL. IMPORTANT: OUR TERMS! https://www.meetup.com/Central-London-Badminton-Club/boards/thread/52704882 \*PLEASE NOTE: LATE CANCELLATIONS (AFTER 12 MIDDAY ON THURSDAY) OR NO-SHOWS WILL INCUR A PENALTY CHARGE OF £15. YOU WILL NEED TO PAY THE PENALTY CHARGE BEFORE BEING ALLOWED TO RSVP AT THE NEXT AVAILABLE SESSION. • You need to bring a racquet and badminton/indoor shoes. We will not let you on court in e.g. running shoes, as this is a serious injury risk. • You are responsible for your own well-being and we and the sports facility representatives will not be responsible for any injury, stolen or damaged property or any other occurrences during our sessions. • Organisers: Mohammed (mr. nice guy) and Jaakko. Please handle cash payments via Mohammed. • The venue has dressing rooms and showers available • PUB SOCIAL: After games you are welcome to join us for a drink or two at a local pub

As part of an ongoing effort to reframe how its collection is activated and interpreted, [RAI FILM](https://raifilm.org.uk/) invited [KONTEKST Collective](https://www.kontekstcollective.com/) to develop an independent curatorial response to its film catalogue. **[The Transparent “I”: Authority and Authorship in Anthropological Filmmaking](https://raifilm.org.uk/events/the-transparent-i-authority-and-authorship-in-anthropological-filmmaking/)** brings together films that interrogate authority and authorship in ethnographic representation. The programme curated by KONTEKST Collective will feature the shorts *Wási* (2017), *All Eyez on Me!* (2021), *A Family Portrait* (2022), and *Making Worlds Otherwise* (2020). Through reflexive approaches and formal experimentation, these films invite the audience to think over the processes in which they were made, looking beyond common perspectives within the discipline. The screening will be followed by a conversation with members of the KONTEKST Collective, moderated by Lee Douglas (Centre for Visual Anthropology, Goldsmiths). **BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE > [https://ticketlab.app/series/2610#/](https://ticketlab.app/series/2610#/)**

Sorry - no intermediates session this week due to university event at the venue.

Within the last century, society and technology have changed rapidly. We have built tools to expand our reach, to build connections face to face and virtually, as well as tools to destroy each other. Technology is being built to engage needs we don't fully understand, often before the consequences of doing so are known. Examples could be the making and consumption of social media and pornographic content, or the rapid development of AI tools and companion at the detriment of work and social wellbeing. Who benefits when you don't know what normal looks like? If everyone does whatever feels right, is that freedom or just chaos with good PR? If you get to choose your own values, are you really choosing, or just rationalising what you already wanted? Is the real problem the speed of change, or that we never had great norms to begin with? As family, religion, and work weaken as institutions, what fills the normative vacuum, and is it enough? You may like this short video: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ICRECGVsaRo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ICRECGVsaRo) \*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: View of the Venetian Lagoon with the Tower of Malghera 1770s by Francesco Guardi

🟤 THE FIRST 10 TICKETS ARE **£4.50 ONLY** 🟢 REMAINING TICKETS ONLINE ARE **£9.50 ONLY** 🟣 TICKETS AT THE DOOR ARE **£15** **Click The Link Below To Buy Tickets**: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1984712038133](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1984712038133) In this workshop Ryan explains why people often have emotions blocking them (usually nervousness) in social situations & how to deal with this to not miss out on opportunities. In the 2nd half he explains how to smoothly start a conversation & make it flow. 🔵 - Understand why people get nervous in social situations or have other emotions blocking them from socialising 🟣 - How to reduce & overcome nervousness or other emotions blocking you from socialising 🟠 - How to start a conversation easily in almost any situation 🟢 - How to use positioning & body language to make starting a conversation much easier 🔵 - How to get a conversation flowing after starting it ⚫ - Brain training exercises designed to increase sharpness at this area of social skills 🔴 - A challenge at the end to bring everything from the workshop together Ryan has been coaching people social skills full time for over 10 years. As a quiet & shy person he wanted to work on his own social skills & after making huge improvements plus understanding how social situations work & how to improve he developed a process to help others for every area of social skills. He has helped thousands of people over the years to improve & now has a huge following including over 180000 followers on TikTok. More info on Ryan & Social Shortcuts can be found on the website [www.socialshortcuts.com](https://www.socialshortcuts.com) After workshops we spend time hanging out together, a great opportunity to practice the workshop content & make new friends. Plus Ryan is happy to answer any questions you want to ask one to one. 🟢Workshop happening after this: **1\. Assertiveness\, Setting Boundaries & Resolving Conflicts In Social Situation** Sun, May 3, 2026, 5:45 PM in LONDON Click the link to buy ticket - [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1984712044151](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1984712044151) In this workshop Ryan explains how to reduce hostility in social situations, then how to set boundaries & defend yourself if necessary while minimising the chances of overreacting or that there is a misunderstanding. Including brain training exercises you can practice to be sharper in this area. 🔵 - How to defend yourself if trying to keep things peaceful isn’t working 🟣 - How to set boundaries in a healthy way 🟠 - Being reasonable so that you’re neither having your boundaries broken but also not overreacting potentially ending up becoming the hostile person 🟢 - How to deal with bullying 🔵 - How to manage emotions related to this area ⚫ - Brain training exercises designed to increase sharpness at this area of social skills In person workshops are at 40 Store St. - Store Street Espresso: London. For any questions feel free to contact Ryan or Gabriel. Please don't contact the other group organisers as they are not involved in running the event & won't be able to provide much help:
 ✉ **Ryan**: info@socialshortcuts.com
 ✉ **Gabriel**: gabrielsocialshortcuts@gmail.com **OTHER EVENTS LINED UP** 🟡 Developing Humor And Quick Thinking In Social Situations
 🟢 Persuasion Workshop
 🟤 How To Manage Emotions Workshop 5 minute documentary on our workshops - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rlbCYdeaws We have a score of 4.9 out 5 on Trustpilot - https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/socialshortcuts.com Our WhatsApp chat where we discuss social skill, give updates about our events & you can ask questions - https://chat.whatsapp.com/FuT9gAwf9oMKACjbWFLmxk For one to one coaching on social skills and also our free trial session - [ http://www.socialshortcuts.com We have over 180000 followers on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@socialshortcuts.com Our video courses - [https://social-shortcuts.teachable.com/p/conversation-course DISCLAIMER
This workshop is intended for educational and or entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any medical condition. **Follow us on the sites below also**:
 http://www.socialshortcuts.com
http://www.youtube.com/c/socialshortcuts
http://www.facebook.com/socialshortcutsofficial
http://www.Instagram.com/socialshortcuts 🟣 **Ken Robinson** 🟢 Up to a point you welcome being interrupted because it is only by interacting with others you get anything interesting done

**Tickets** - [https://tickxts.com/e/oNMzIN0w](https://tickxts.com/e/oNMzIN0w) **Join The Kickback for Our Eleventh Private Screening** **WELCOME DRINK ON ARRIVAL + UNIQUE EXPERIENCES TO BE ANNOUNCED** **The Kickback Presents: Michael Private Screening** **Date:** Friday, 24 April 2026 **Time:** Doors Open at 7:30 PM \| Film Starts at 8:00 PM **Location:** Vue Cinema Westfield Stratford, Montfichet Road, London, E20 1EJ **Capacity:** 350 Guests **Dress Code:** Well dressed. Michael Inspired **Age:** 21+ Join The Kickback for our biggest screening yet as we bring together 350 Black and mixed-heritage professionals, creatives and film lovers for a special private screening of **Michael**. This will be more than just watching a film. It will be a cultural moment. **Michael** is one of the most anticipated cinematic releases, telling the story of one of the most iconic entertainers the world has ever seen. From the music to the legacy, this film represents genius, creativity, impact and global cultural influence. At The Kickback, we know the power of shared moments through film, and this screening is set to be one of our most memorable yet. Expect a strong atmosphere, a beautifully curated crowd, and a room filled with people who understand the significance of this story. Alongside the screening, we’ll also have a few surprises in store to make the night even more special. This is a chance to be part of a standout Kickback experience, connect with like-minded people, and celebrate a film that will have the whole world talking. This is not just another cinema trip. This is **The Kickback** way — community, culture, energy and experience all in one room. Tickets are limited, so secure yours early. **Please note:** Tickets are **non-refundable and non-transferable**. This event is strictly for **over 21s**. Guests are expected to come well dressed, as this will be a high-energy cultural experience with opportunities to network. We will have a few surprises on the night 👀 **Follow: The KickBack (Click the usernames to Follow)** **Twitter:** [@TheKickBackHQ](https://www.twitter.com/thekickbackhq/) **Facebook:** [@TheKickBackHQ](https://www.facebook.com/thekickbackhq/) **Instagram:** [@TheKickBackHQ](https://www.instagram.com/thekickbackhq/) **TikTok: [@](https://www.tiktok.com/@thekickbackhq)**[TheKickbackHQ](https://www.tiktok.com/@thekickbackhq) [Join our WhatsApp community here](https://chat.whatsapp.com/G3afVSIpZLP1cQkRsdhMVc) *Pictures and Videos will be taken for marketing purposes.* *All attendees consent to the use of their pictures by @TheKickBackHQ*

**\*Please note we had to increase the session fees to £14 due to increase in court hire and shuttles.** Sunday Morning Badminton Date: 26 April 2026 Time: 10 am to 12 Noon Courts: 4 courts available Shuttles: Feather (quality feathers) Session Fee: £14 per person. TWO HOURS OF BADMINTON - £14, Venue: Somers Town Community Sports Centre 134 Chalton Street, London NW1 1RX Free Street Parking Available. This session is for those that are intermediate and above (strictly no beginners/ improvers/ Low Intermediates). We want to ensure the quality of play while controlling the standard of the club, this means that players who are not quite up to the standard may be asked politely to leave. PLEASE PAY BEFORE THE BEGINNING OF THE SESSION EITHER VIA BANK TRANSFER/ PAYPAL. IMPORTANT: OUR TERMS! Coronavirus: Stay Safe, Play Safe https://www.meetup.com/Central-London-Badminton-Club/boards/thread/52704882 Badminton Tactics: https://www.meetup.com/Central-London-Badminton-Club/messages/boards/thread/52043613 \*PLEASE NOTE: LATE CANCELLATIONS (AFTER 8PM ON SATURDAY) OR NO-SHOWS WILL INCUR A PENALTY CHARGE OF £14. YOU WILL NEED TO PAY THE PENALTY CHARGE BEFORE BEING ALLOWED TO RSVP AT THE NEXT AVAILABLE SESSION. • You are responsible for your own well-being and we and the sports facility representatives will not be responsible for any injury, stolen or damaged property or any other occurrences during our sessions. • Organisers: Mohammed (mr. nice guy), Vin (the merciless) and Moynul (the dark side of badminton)

**Tickets** - [https://tickxts.com/e/oNMzIN0w](https://tickxts.com/e/oNMzIN0w) **Join The Kickback for Our Eleventh Private Screening** **WELCOME DRINK ON ARRIVAL + UNIQUE EXPERIENCES TO BE ANNOUNCED** **The Kickback Presents: Michael Private Screening** **Date:** Friday, 24 April 2026 **Time:** Doors Open at 7:30 PM \| Film Starts at 8:00 PM **Location:** Vue Cinema Westfield Stratford, Montfichet Road, London, E20 1EJ **Capacity:** 350 Guests **Dress Code:** Well dressed. Michael Inspired **Age:** 21+ Join The Kickback for our biggest screening yet as we bring together 350 Black and mixed-heritage professionals, creatives and film lovers for a special private screening of **Michael**. This will be more than just watching a film. It will be a cultural moment. **Michael** is one of the most anticipated cinematic releases, telling the story of one of the most iconic entertainers the world has ever seen. From the music to the legacy, this film represents genius, creativity, impact and global cultural influence. At The Kickback, we know the power of shared moments through film, and this screening is set to be one of our most memorable yet. Expect a strong atmosphere, a beautifully curated crowd, and a room filled with people who understand the significance of this story. Alongside the screening, we’ll also have a few surprises in store to make the night even more special. This is a chance to be part of a standout Kickback experience, connect with like-minded people, and celebrate a film that will have the whole world talking. This is not just another cinema trip. This is **The Kickback** way — community, culture, energy and experience all in one room. Tickets are limited, so secure yours early. **Please note:** Tickets are **non-refundable and non-transferable**. This event is strictly for **over 21s**. Guests are expected to come well-dressed, as this will be a high-energy cultural experience with opportunities to network. We will have a few surprises on the night 👀 **Follow: The KickBack (Click the usernames to Follow)** **Twitter:** [@TheKickBackHQ](https://www.twitter.com/thekickbackhq/) **Facebook:** [@TheKickBackHQ](https://www.facebook.com/thekickbackhq/) **Instagram:** [@TheKickBackHQ](https://www.instagram.com/thekickbackhq/) **TikTok: [@](https://www.tiktok.com/@thekickbackhq)**[TheKickbackHQ](https://www.tiktok.com/@thekickbackhq) [Join our WhatsApp community here](https://chat.whatsapp.com/G3afVSIpZLP1cQkRsdhMVc) *Pictures and Videos will be taken for marketing purposes.* *All attendees consent to the use of their pictures by @TheKickBackHQ*

An open participation philosophical discussion. No previous philosophical experience necessary Please follow the stated guidelines This is a Philosophical Discussion hosted by Joel Janiurek. We shall be discussing The Paradox of Fiction. This event is open to all. No previous philosophical experience necessary. The aim is to have fun, meet new people, generate interesting and thought-provoking conversations, have your horizons expanded, challenge your preconceptions and who knows - you might even learn something? Philosophy is about conceptual analysis. It's thinking about thinking. It's not about empiricism or the real world. It's about abstractions, concepts and ideas. In order to make the conversations as fun, interesting and productive for everyone as possible please follow these simple guidelines: 1. Keep it Philosophical (No Science, no History, no Sociology, no Evolutionary Psychology, no contestable facts, no personal anecdotes). 2. Think for Yourself (No phones, no looking up definitions, no name dropping Philosophers / books you've read). 3. Tangents are Cool (Don't worry too much if the subject drifts and you don't answer the question). 4. Keep it Succinct (Like this). 5. Be Excellent to Each Other (But of course). We hope to see you there

Get ready for a fun night with amazing food, great energy, and even better company! 🥰✨ 🍽️ Portia’s Café — 6:30PM 🛼 Skate Zone 71 — 8:30PM Come join us for delicious vegan food and/or roller skating — it’s totally up to you! Whether you come for the food, the skating, or both… you’re in for a great time 💗 📍 Portia’s Café 4424 Indianola Ave Columbus, OH 43214 📍 Skate Zone 71 4900 Evanswood Dr Columbus, OH 43229

Join us for lunch and meet our very successful group. We are each others sales team...always looking for referrals for our members. If you are looking for new clients, let us help you out! Bring your business cards and brochures to share with us. We have a speaker each week so that we can learn about their business. Because we have only one member per business, we have many of the spots filled. However, we are specifically looking for an estate attorney, a handyman/electrician, and an event planner. We have referrals for you! All visitors are welcome. Any questions contact [pmarchio@farmersagent.com](mailto:pmarchio@farmersagent.com)

**Pickleball + coffee + community 🌱** **Let’s kick things off with pickleball at Park of Roses, then join us at Blackend Coffee to unwind and connect.** **Pickleball 🏓 10:30am-12:30pm** **Blackend Coffee ☕️ 🌯 1-3pm** **All levels welcome!** **Can’t waitt to see everyone!** **📍 Park of Roses** **3901 N High St** **Columbus, OH 43214** **📍Blackend Coffee** **2619 N High St** **Columbus, OH 43202**

**💓 Springfield Zoom Speed Dating – Personality & Age Matched** This online speed dating format leans into the human side: strong hosting, repeat attendees, and a sense that the event is part of a growing community. Ditch the apps. Meet Springfield singles face-to-face on Zoom tonight. Quick, hosted rounds on Zoom with Springfield singles paired to your age group and personality. No awkward pauses — just natural conversation. **Pick your age group and sign up:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=464.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Springfield&groupurlname=spark-new-gay-friendships-every-night&ar=18-32&face_v=15.0) - 🌍 **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=464.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Springfield&groupurlname=spark-new-gay-friendships-every-night&ar=30-46&face_v=15.0) - 🔥 **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=464.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Springfield&groupurlname=spark-new-gay-friendships-every-night&ar=40-58&face_v=15.0) **⚠️ RSVP alone won't secure your spot.** You need to register through your age group link below and complete the personality quiz. Places are limited. --- 🎯 **Great fit for:** - 🚀 Singles in Springfield who want to meet people from home - ✨ Anyone who likes connecting online before meeting face-to-face - 🎉 Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations 📍 **Event snapshot** - **Format:** Zoom video session – short timed rounds - **Location:** Online from home – no need to go anywhere - 🔥 **Host:** Experienced host steering the session **How the event unfolds** 1. **Pick your age group** – Register through your link above. 2. **Complete the quiz** – Short personality quiz so we can match you well. 3. **Hop on Zoom** – Join the call and your host will walk you through it. 4. **Speed date** – One-on-one rounds with personality-matched Springfield locals. **Frequently Asked Questions** **Do I need anything besides Zoom?** Just Zoom, a webcam, and Wi-Fi. That's it. **Is my info private?** **What happens after?** --- ✨ Meet Springfield singles from home. Sign up and we'll take care of the rest. � ✨ Compressed version with the essentials only. Concise by design so people can decide quickly. 🤝 **Community angle** - Repeat attendees help create familiarity and momentum - The structure is designed to help people settle in quickly - The community matters as much as the session itself The long-term goal is a room people want to come back to, not a one-off event people forget about.

A very unusual choice for his group... Unknown Number: High School Catfish is an American [true crime](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/True_crime "True crime") documentary film directed by [Skye Borgman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skye_Borgman "Skye Borgman") and released to [streaming](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Streaming_media "Streaming media") on [Netflix](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Netflix "Netflix") on August 29, 2025. The documentary explores the events and investigation into an unknown person [cyberbully](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyberbullying "Cyberbullying") and [harassing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harassment "Harassment") teenagers in [Beal City, Michigan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beal_City,_Michigan "Beal City, Michigan") using an unknown number via insults and sexual claims. It also explores the increasingly great impact of the harassment on the community, the eventual reveal of the culprit, and the trial that followed. IMPORTANT INFO: I strongly suggest not reading anything about it online before seeing it. It's best viewed with no previous knowledge. This documentary contains crude terminology and deals with cyberbullying, which may be a trigger for some folks. PLEASE NOTE - WE ARE STARTING AT 6:30, WHICH IS THIRTY MINUTES EARLIER THAN USUAL.