Law

PLEASE NOTE YOU MUST book and pay for your ticket in advance at https://www.legallondon.co.uk/ The Legal London Committee would like to extend you an invitation to our April 2026 City Legal Private Client Networking Reception to be held in the private room of the World Famous Sterling Bar At The Gherkin In the Heart of The City of London- and hope you can join us for apres-work delicious food, drinks and productive business networking to make new contacts and deals for 2026. We now have over 4000 diverse and relevant London members so it’s the perfect opportunity for making new business connections. See photos from our latest events at https://www.legallondon.co.uk/ PLEASE NOTE YOU MUST book and pay for your ticket in advance at https://www.legallondon.co.uk/ ALSO PLEASE NOTE we take most of our event bookings through our website and EventBrite so the numbers booked is much larger than displayed on this Meetup page (normally about 50-80 guests).

Location: Ark Walworth Academy Shorncliffe Rd, London SE1 5UJ There will be 24 hours cancellation policy. If you can't make it please update your RSVP 24 hours before the session. Anytime under 24 hours and you will be responsible for paying for the session. The session fee is £15 per 3 hours make a payment to: Monzo Personal account Alvin John Rompe Sort code: 04-00-04 acct number: 29786770

**A fresh take on dating for straight and LGBTQIA+ singles in their 30s, 40s and 50s, brought to you by LoMAZ. We visit a different museum on the last Friday of each month, before heading to the pub.** This month, join us for a relaxed evening of conversation and connections at the **National Gallery**. It's just like a usual LoMAZ event except for one thing: everyone there will be single. Come for friendship, come for dates, come along! [https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/](https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/) **HOW DOES IT WORK?** **6.00pm - 6:30pm: Meet and greet in the foyer of the main “Sainsbury Wing”Entrance of the National Gallery.** [Floorplan](https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/media/n1jh0au4/ng_online_map_downloadable_nov25.pdf) * Look out for LoMAZ hosts wearing a 'host' sticker in a yellow frame and they will welcome you. * You can choose to wear a LoMAZ logo sticker or a LoMAZ rainbow sticker, or both. Wearing stickers means everyone can see who is part of the group and helps you find us as we move around the museum. If you see someone with a LoMAZ sticker, feel free to chat to each other. **7.00 - 8.00pm: Explore the museum** * We'll then explore the museum together. Hosts will always be there to chat to. **8.30pm - late:** **Head to the pub.** * We'll carry on the evening in a nearby pub. ***Venue can be found in the event comments (visible only to members who have RSVP'd to this event).*** * As this is a free event we won't have a private space, but will aim to have a few tables reserved. So please expect some standing and mingling. **TICKETS:** Tickets are free and we do have a group booking however, if you arrive or choose to meet us inside the National Gallery then you need to book your own for 7pm using the following link. (https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/visiting/plan-your-visit/general-admission) **CONTACT AND GROUP LOCATION ON THE NIGHT:** * **We'll regularly update where the group is throughout the evening in the event comments.** * You can also message a host via Meetup if you have questions or any difficulties finding us. * Lates for Dates events do *not* have a WhatsApp group. **PLEASE NOTE:** * LoMAZ events are hosted by volunteers. Please change your RSVP if you can no longer attend. * This is a mixed orientation event. Let’s keep it friendly and respectful—please report any concerns to the hosts or Meetup. * All attendees at this meetup are coming as individuals and are responsible for their own security, and health and safety. Please check the Meetup Help section and the National Gallery for their policies. **Thank you for your interest in the LoMAZ and our Museum Lates for Dates event.** Image credit: Tiia Monto, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

**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*

Join us for a weekly session of friendly and focused writing time. From 6pm every Friday: We'll be at the Auberge pub, across road from Waterloo. See full location info for how to find us. There'll be a sign at our table. \*(Please see full access info, further down.) ...... * We shut up for 1 hour of scheduled focus time - 6.30 to 7.30. ...Then time to chat or carry on at your preference. This is for writing of any description or experience level. Somewhere to get on with your own work, and connect with new people. Most importantly to not feel isolated in your pursuits, however big or small. i.e. If you're looking to further your writing interests; and for a comfortable social space; ...or just need somewhere to sit and focus before you go home on a Friday - you're welcome to stop by. Please RSVP to give us an idea of who is coming / how many. ........ **6:00pm - 6:30pm** * Find our table and grab a seat. Plus any food or drink. * We'll take 5-10 minutes to say who we all are, and welcome anyone new. * (No need to say what you're working on, but feel welcome to). **6.30pm - 7.30pm** * No talking. One hour. * You can leave the table at any point. * Anyone arriving late feel free to find a seat, we'll give you a silent wave. You won't get glared at! **7.30pm** Once 'Shut Up' time is over: * You are welcome to head off straight away, no pressure to stick around. * You are welcome to stay to chat with other members, as late as you wish. * Or you're welcome to just keep writing - if you're in the zone, no need to stop just because others have. The time is for you, to get the most benefit. . **FACILITIES / ACCESS** Mobility access is limited: There is a step to enter pub, from pavement (one entrance only) - Venue will provide ramp for step-free entry. Toilets are on ground floor. \*However there is no accessible or private toilet space. Apologies. (The closest are in the main station concourse, nearby.) Do contact if you would like clearer info before attending. **FOOD** There is food served all evening / including vegan options. You're welcome to eat whilst writing. **WI-FI** There should be working Wi-Fi, if you need it! 'Auberge Secure' PW: waterloo **DOG-FRIENDLY** Dogs also welcome. . If you have additional queries re. access or other requirements, do message us via Meetup or contact the Auberge directly. . **A note about the format** We don’t host readings and feedback. (But we can signpost to events that do). Whether you're writing for a professional goal, academic project, private thoughts and wellbeing, or purely casual enjoyment, (or still deciding!) - don't worry we won't be asking each other to share details. You can just arrive, make yourself comfortable with anything you need, and get on with whatever you decide. No-one will be reading your work or judging if you've met targets. We don't set group goals and deadlines: we're just here to help each other with our own - where needed. Or to switch off and talk about something else completely, if you need that instead! This is a social event and aimed at bringing new people together. Not just a co-working space. **Respect** Please also note our Code of Conduct: [www.shutupwrite.com/code-of-conduct](https://www.shutupwrite.com/code-of-conduct) ...And be aware this is an informal event open to adults of all ages and backgrounds. i.e. We expect everyone who attends will treat each other with appropriate respect and awareness, and feel able to interact comfortably. Any concerns don't hesitate to raise them with us. For a full view of events, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://www.shutupwrite.com).

Host: Van \*This event is a collaboration with other groups and social networks and it will be well attended \*To attend this event you need to buy a ticket from [https://www.fatsoma.com/e/i30mc67r/singles-social-party-in-shoreditch-with-complimentary-drink-happy-hour-all-ages](https://www.fatsoma.com/e/i30mc67r/singles-social-party-in-shoreditch-with-complimentary-drink-happy-hour-all-ages) Single people mixing and mingling, partying and dancing in the heart of Shoreditch, while keeping their eyes open trying to spot that special one that will make their heart jump Whether you are looking for a partner or just to meet and connect with other people who are at the same phase of life, this is the event for you! You never know who you are going meet in this evening and that is the beauty of it! You may find a friend forever, a party buddy, a partner in crime or a partner in life! Since this is a mix and mingle and not a speed dating there is no age range- in a social pool everybody is welcome and you can choose to speak to whoever you fancy. Connect with like minded people and open your social circle, enjoy chatting about anything and everything, with those you like, for as long as you like If you find somebody who you think you have a connection with, dare to ask their contact details right then and there... like the old times ;) Oh! and you don't need to ask the awkward question: 'so are you single?' because they all will be! You are very welcome to attend alone or with friends. We will be there making introductions, helping break the ice,, and act as a glue in the group. We have a reserved area/table where we can mix and mingle, so that everybody can relax and feel comfortable and we get to know each other. and then we are going to move on the dance floor! Simmons Shoreditch is a quirky cocktail bar bringing an off- kilter addition to the streets of the East. Just off Shoreditch High Street, this gem is notorious for a late-night party or 5. Its eclectic playlist and beautifully bonkers interiors set it apart from its peers. Famed for its rogue aesthetic, it really has it all. We're not joking. Bringing a new meaning to 'Everything but the kitchen sink,' this bar even has that. Its DJ plays from a built-in Kitchen Disco. Spinning disks that span decades with a playlist that's sure to keep you on the dancefloor until the early hours. Blaring neons, skull disco balls and waltzer-style booths all add to the charm! The program of the night is as follows : 7:00pm-9pm : Singles mixing and mingling 9pm: The music goes up and it is time for dancing. Everyone arriving before 9pm receives a token for a complimentary drink ( you can choose between beer, prosecco or non alcoholic) Happy Hour till 9pm! Dress code is smart/ elegant/ Smart Casual (smart dark jeans are fine but ripped jeans, sportswear, trainers/sportshoes and hats are not allowed). For security reasons every guest must carry photographic ID with them (Driver’s License, European ID or Passport) independently of the age. If you wish to be welcomed and introduced to other people by the hostess please arrive before midnight How to find us: When you arrive please ask to be directed to Marianna's Events area/ Van. Any issue on the night feel free to contact Van: 07587546857 For general inquires or difficulties with your ticket booking feel free to e-mail us at benetoupromotions@gmail.com or call Marianna on: 07949526733 How to connect with us: Like and follow our facebook page: [https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland](https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland) Join our facebook group: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514](https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514) Follow us on twitter: [@Mariannasevents](http://mariannasevents/)

Learn to Meditate - Fridays in Mayfair @ 5.45pm - 6.45pm Join our Free Sahaja Yoga Class Venue: Mayfair Library 25 South Audley St, London, W1K 2PB Achieve Yoga & enter into a state of ‘thoughtless awareness’. In the heart of London @ Mayfair Library, there is a weekly class in free meditation. **Achieve Yoga & Learn to Meditate in 2026 - 5:45- 6:45pm Fridays** The first experience of Sahaja Yoga meditation is called Self Realisation. With Sahaja Yoga Meditation we generally sit on chairs to achieve Yoga, effortlessly & spontaneously. As such no Asanas (exercises) are required, no mat or special clothing ## What is Meditation? Meditation is a state of mental silence or rest, where our attention is aware, but not engrossed in thinking. It is known as ‘thoughtless awareness’. It is achieved when the indwelling Kundalini energy awakens and carries the individual attention beyond the level of the 6th chakra, into the seventh chakra, known as Sahasrara. ## Yoga! It is here we achieve Yoga! As the mind finds rest and silence, we become able to feel our inner Self (Spirit). This can be tangibly felt, it actually manifests, as a cool wind, breath or breeze, often experienced on the palms of the hands or at the top (crown) of the head. It is a spontaneous, effortless natural happening. Each week many people experience this actualisation at one of the many free meditation classes on offer ## How to get into balance? The secret of the Sahaja Yoga method resides within us, at the base of the spinal chord, in a triangular bone called the “sacrum bone”. Since our birth in our sacrum bone dwells an inner energy called in Sanskrit Kundalini; it is characterised as a feminine energy and once activated, this energy rises along our spine until it reaches the top of the head and finally connects with the universal energy. This union is called “yoga” in Sanskrit. ## Kundalini As our indwelling Kundalini rises through the central channel, this benevolent feminine energy activates the chakras, removing all the impurities from them and nourishing the entire inner system. It is through this happening that we are elevated into ‘thoughtless awareness’, the mental silence of true meditation www.sahajayogalondon.co.uk Free Meditation & Yoga Classes in London Want to experience it now – Experience Self Realisation now – Guided Meditation ([https://www.sahajayogalondon.co.uk/articles/experience-your-self-realisation-online-now/](https://www.sahajayogalondon.co.uk/articles/experience-your-self-realisation-online-now/ "https://www.sahajayogalondon.co.uk/articles/experience-your-self-realisation-online-now/")) ###

**No one communication style works with all people. This Workshop will help you to develop your ability to communicate in a number of styles.** On the face of it, a leadership is about inspiring others to follow in your vision. To go above and beyond in the name of your objective, however leadership is more about effectively communicating ideas in the simplest and most effective way possible. This can be difficult to do as we all have something unique which makes us tick, whether it's facts & statistics, competition, shared goals or cooperative decision making. This workshop will focus on identifying the key drivers that motivate a team and how to present information effectively based on which driver motivates an individual the most. Sarah Pautsch Debate London's Career Coach takes us through how to use a suite of debate skills to: * Understand and identify which key driver motivates an individual and team. * Effectively communicate the same idea in different forms using a range of different styles. * Develop the skills to manage personalities you would naturally clash with and develop practical methods to bring them into your vision. You will also learn by doing through a simulated leadership scenario in which you will have to work with others to secure collective agreement while achieving your own unique objective. **Venue** Food and drink is available for order at the venue. There is a 15 minute drinks break and a 30 minute lunch break included in the running time. **Please do not bring external food or drink into the premises you will be asked to throw it away.** **Meet Your Coach:** Sarah is a qualified HR Professional working within HR & Learning & Development for a decade. Sarah has worked in education, non-profit, life sciences Cell and Gene Therapy Pharmaceutical industries. Specialising in recruitment, coaching and employment law. Sarah regularly advises senior leaders on business strategic focuses and future planning. Being an accredited member of the CIPD and IIRSM organisations Sarah is able to use her knowledge globally to coach and train. **What is Debate+ (Debate Professional)** Debate+ is our advanced series of debate workshops which are focused 100% on how one can apply debate skills in a professional environment.

It's time to get out in nature and enjoy the beauty of the bluebell woods. It's been a long winter so lets embrace spring and capture these gorgeous flowers. We’ll look at camera settings to use to ensure you get the best photos of bluebells. We'll give you loads of tips to help you capture classic and creative bluebell shots. We'll have some optional exercises to help you get the best of your afternoon shooting bluebells. EQUIPMENT * Any camera including smartphones * Kit lens such as 18-55, 24-70mm lens * 50mm or macro lens (if you have one) OTHER ESSENTIALS * Check the weather and wear appropriate clothes and shoes TRAVEL * As usual check the TFL website for disruptions that might delay your journey * We'll have a 1 km gentle walk to the bluebell woods * If you drive we will meet you by the park IMPORTANT INFO * Bluebells are protected under UK law so it is advisable to stay on the footpaths provided CONTACT * Alex 07956 264049 VENICE PHOTOGRAPHY WEEKEND - Oct 2026 [https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events/313109100/) UPCOMING EVENTS [www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events](http://www.meetup.com/londonphotographic/events)

\*NEW MUSLUM MARRIAGE EVENT IN LONDON\* Single Muslim Marriage Event – London (Ages 24–45+) TWO AGE CATEGORIES 📅 Date: Saturday, 25th April 2026 AT 14:00 📍 Venue: Finchley, East End Road, London, N2 0SE 🎟 Tickets - PAID EVENT - Book via the Eventbrite Link below 👇 https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/london-single-muslim-marriage-event-ages-24-45-two-age-groups-tickets-1981805264896?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&aff=ebdsshios&sg=0f2cf5d10753aefa101ad74e47ffc2e9159b3e96740ac70330f75bd018820ae595615bfed51406e7255b2b59ca2bfbd2854b5ded4cd472c7fb6dc5567f0b5003e8e0b28b6a3471a98637a18f9652 #londonmuslim #muslim #londonevents #muslimah #SingleMuslim #muslimmarriage #fypシ゚viralシ #fypシ゚viralシfypシ゚ #viralreelsシ #singlemuslims #muslimah #muslimeventuk

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

**🏛️ WHAT'S PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY ABOUT?** Practical Philosophy is a weekly meet-up that brings critical thinkers together for an opportunity to dive deep on a topic, practice communicating, and building a community. All with no ‘official’ philosophy knowledge required! 😎 Practical Philosophy is based on the idea that philosophy should be accessible to all, and not something reserved only for academics. Each week we choose a topic, and the goal is to use the conversation to develop our critical thinking and communication as we explore that topic. The goal is to help develop our Critical Thinking, Communication, and Community 🙌 📓 **HOW DOES IT WORK?** Each week, we pick one topic and discuss it. The topic for the week is shared, generally in the [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS), along with jump-off points to get the conversation going. When groups get bigger than 7-8 people, it’s important that we break into smaller groups. This way we are able to maintain a conversational flow as opposed to having our meetups feel like a discourse or lecture. **General Meeting Agenda** Each Practical Philosophy meet-up follows this general timeline: * 13:45-14:00 - People arrive and chat, get to know each other before the ‘official' start. * 14:00-14:05 - Meeting introduction, explanation of Practical Philosophy and the topic for the week, read the guidelines and the overview so attendees know what to expect in terms of timelines. * 14:05-14:45 - Break into small groups - introduce yourselves and general thoughts on the topic, open discussion afterwards. At this point the group can review the ‘jump-off’ questions as needed, but they are just there to help guide the conversation. It’s not obligatory to answer them. * 14:45 - We do a group conclusion of the things we discussed, and then we typically take a photo and go on our way :) If you don't want to be in the group photo, there's no pressure, it's just a way to close out the meeting. We occasionally have an unofficial social so the different groups can mingle afterwards too! **🧧PRICING?** Practical Philosophy Club is FREE to attend, and we operate on donations. If you'd like to donate to support our running costs, that helps keep our group self-sustaining. Donations are 100% voluntary, but your contribution is appreciated! QR codes to donate will be present. Tea’s and coffees and are paid by the individual should they wish to have them. **💛 WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY** 🗣 “I feel like Philosophy Club helps someone build their own belief system through a series of perspectives while not promoting what’s right and wrong” - Ekam 🗣 “I got hooked from day 1 (the topic was authority) and felt it was the right place for me. I feel it is a place where people can go to learn and discuss new perspectives and increase critical thinking and community by interacting with people who might challenge your point of views but at the same time encourage you to have openness and mind flexibility.” - Daniel **🤓 FAQ** * What will we talk about? What's the topic? The topic for the week is shared every week in the Whatsapp group before the session. We try to add the topic to the comment section on this event page as well but if you don’t see it, the topic and the jump-off points will be in our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS). * Do I need to study or read anything to attend? No preparation is necessary. This isn’t a study of other thinkers. We want to know what YOU think about the topic, not what an old philosopher thought. If you have a perspective from a religion or a school of thought to share, throw it on the table and we’ll discuss it, but it's not required. * Is there a specific philosophy that Practical Philosophy is focused on? The goal of our meet-ups is to not have dogmatic discussions, and flex our critical thinking muscles. Because of this, we want to hear from every realm of thought, and don't study a particular school. * Is it mostly men that attend? Surprisingly, no! Although philosophy is seen as a Candelabra affair in a dark room with a bunch of guys, our Practical Philosophy meetups are generally 50/50 between genders, and we don’t meet in any dark rooms. * Can I come alone? Of course you can, we encourage it :) * Can I be late? Please don't be! We do have a 15 minute grace period where we allow people to funnel in while we hang out, but after that if you arrive too late, it disrupts the flow of the conversation. * Where do you meet? The location is posted in Meetup and our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS) group for this location. It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you join the Whatsapp group! If you want to know what other cities have a Practical Philosophy Club, you can see our chapters on our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club/practical-philosophy-locations/). 🤝**POLICY** To respect our members privacy, we ask that no one privately message a member without first getting explicit consent. (This looks like speaking in person and being asked to message privately.) Contacting or texting other participants without prior consent is not permitted and may result in removal from the group. Practical Philosophy reserves the right to enforce this policy at its discretion to maintain a safe and respectful environment. **PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY - Making Philosophy Available To All.** ✨ Practical Philosophy hosts weekly, in-person meetups in 25+ countries, including Canada, Spain, Japan, Mexico and many more! 🗺️ \*\*\* Join our [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS) 👈 Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/practicalphilosophyclub/?hl=en) 👈 Our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club) 👈

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

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

**Let’s catch up and take an afternoon break.** **Grab a coffee or snack and let’s chit chat! Gayle and I will bring adult coloring books and/or a simple craft if you’d like to unwind and relax.😊**