New Buddhism

Click on this link to purchase your tickets: https://www.eventbrite.sg/e/humanist-report-for-jury-duty-tickets-1974941054859?aff=oddtdtcreator

Moving to a new city is exciting at first — a fresh start, new opportunities, a new chapter. But once things settle, being new in town can feel lonely. You don’t know anyone yet, you’re unsure where to go to meet people, and everyone else seems to already have their circles. That’s where we come in. Our Fast Friending evenings are designed especially for those who are new in town and ready to build real friendships — creating welcoming spaces where conversations flow naturally and meaningful connections begin! ✨ What Makes This Event Special? \- FREE entry for ladies \(RSVP required\) \- Guided social experience to help you meet people comfortably \- Fun icebreakers to make conversations even easier \- Fast\-friending rounds so you can connect with multiple attendees \- A reserved space just for our group\! \- Happy Hours till 9\.00 pm\! TICKETS: (**payable in cash and will be collected by** **Frisca at the start of the evening**) Ladies - FREE Entry Gents - 20 SGD \-\-\- 🕖 Evening Flow 8:00 PM – Arrival & Welcome Settle into our reserved area, grab a drink, and let Frisca introduce you to a few friendly faces. 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM – Fast Friending \- Meet a new person every 3\-6 minutes\. \- Frisca will guide each switch so you can connect with many lovely attendees in a short amount of time\. After 9:30 PM – Open Mingling Continue conversations with your favourite connections or meet more people at your own pace. **Our venue for the evening -** We have a reserved area where our members can meet each other in a supportive environment! \- We are not a close knit tight group\. Our evenings are warm and comfortable for members attending for the first time and those coming alone\. You will not feel alone\! \- We have many groups in this city\. Members of our other groups who RSVP are included as guests of the organisers in order to give you an indication of expected people\. \- This evening is for ladies and gents in the 20 to 40 age group\. While some will be at the younger end of this range there will also be others at the other end of the range and lots in\-between\! You will naturally gel with others of your own age range and so you will always find many attendees who fit your range\. \- We are not a dating group\. Our events are not organised to manage your dating life\. Our group is created to help ladies and gents meet other like minded ladies and gents\. Please do not attend our event if a perfect gender balance is important for your enjoyment of our meet\-up\. \-\-\-\-\-\-\- Why do we have tickets? 1. Cover our costs - Our host is compensated for their time and work. We also pay meetup and have dedicated staff to manage our events, hosts, venues and communication. 2. Group Safety - By securing your ticket we have a record and you contribute to a well organized evening where everyone is more committed and better behaved. 3. Management - Tickets help us better manage attendee group size, book suitable space and activity. ABOUT [fastfriends.co.uk ](https://fastfriends.co.uk/)- We have connected members successfully for the past 10 years in over 30 cities (operating as Expatsclub, MeetConnectDevelop and fastfriends.co.uk). **Here are some videos which will give you some guidance -** Secrets of socializing at our meetups - [http://bit.ly/secrets-socializing](http://bit.ly/secrets-socializing) How to make new friends - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6GB0Hc_bSs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6GB0Hc_bSs) How to make people like you at our socials -[ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4guProkKrI](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4guProkKrI) Why you should attend our evenings - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEjwGBXzJE8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEjwGBXzJE8)

***Hi there!*** **Sahaja Yoga Meditation Singapore** invites you to a **FREE** meditation class, which is facilitated by an experienced practitioner. *Learn easy meditation steps and purify your inner being with joy, and love.* *Get rid of frustrations, anxiety, stress, and doubts, and feel the energy within.* **What to expect during the class?** -Introduction to Sahaja Yoga Meditation -Meditation session -Learn the topic of the week -Homework for you to try at home -Question and Answers **Address** Sahaja Yoga Meditation 140 Paya Lebar Road, #07-15 AZ Building Singapore 409015 Nearest MRT: MacPherson MRT (Downtown Line/Circle Line), Exit A *See you there :-)* **Sahaja Yoga Meditation** **Singapore**

A bouldering meetup for climbers and curious newcomers from all walks of life. Skip the bar - swap happy hour for a healthier kind of hangout. Boulder Without Borders is all about getting on the wall, challenging yourself at your own pace, and making real connections between sends. Whether you're a seasoned climber or stepping onto a mat for the first time, you're welcome here. No experience needed, no pressure - just good climbs and laid-back conversations during the rest breaks (and trust us, there will be rest breaks). **What to expect:** * Climb at your own level * Talk about life and share more about each other * A fun, active alternative to the usual drinking sessions **Day passes** can be purchased directly from me ($24 per pass) or directly at the gym ($32). Message me on Telegram @tangytang88 if you’re coming!

Sufi Meditation is a practical and proven spiritual technique. Our meditation is fundamentally different from others as we do not focus on the body but on the soul. Our practices and its benefits are experiential. Hundreds of seekers worldwide from different races and cultures are benefitting from it every day.

**For ages 13 and above.** Aikido is a martial art which originated in Japan with its founder, Morihei Ueshiba, in the early twentieth century and has since grown to become one of the world’s most popular martial arts. At its most basic level, Aikido is an empty-handed system of throwing, joint-locking, striking and pinning techniques, coupled with training in the varying use of sword (bokken), staff (jo) and knife (tanto) techniques. The core principle of Aikido is not to resist the laws of nature but to harmonize without the undue application of aggressive strength. In practice, aikido techniques are applied by efficient redirection of the attacker’s power against him/her using minimal force and without being overly injurious. The word “aikido” is formed of three kanji, namely 合 (ai) meaning joining or unifying, 気 (ki) which means spirit or energy, and 道 (dō) which is loosely interpreted as “the path” or “the way”. ### **Address** 346D King George's Avenue, Singapore, Singapore ### **Schedule** Saturdays 4PM - 5PM ### **Booking Information** * Please contact **98225900** to find out how to book this class. * The instructor will reach out to you once you've booked the class.

🏛️ **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/Hg7zL8ClpzM3agJCvw5HDS), 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: * 19:00-19:15 - People arrive and chat, get to know each other before the ‘official' start. * 19:15-19:25 - 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. * 19:25-20:45 - 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. * 20:45-21:00 - Bring everyone back together to discuss conclusions of the topic - each group gives a short 1-minute summary. Organizer concludes the meeting and everyone takes a group photo. * 21:00 - The official meeting is over but it’s a great opportunity to get to know people in a non-structured environment, so we often stick around, chat, and get to know each other. **🧧PRICING?** Practical Philosophy Club is FREE to attend! We just ask that if we are meeting in a café, buy a beverage! Some chapters rent a space for us to meet, and they may ask for donations to help contribute to the cost of rent. Donations will always be 100% voluntary though! 💛 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 Sunday in the Whatsapp group. 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/Hg7zL8ClpzM3agJCvw5HDS). * 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/Hg7zL8ClpzM3agJCvw5HDS) 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/). **PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY - Making Philosophy Available To All.** ✨ Practical Philosophy hosts weekly, in-person meetups in over 20 countries, including Canada, Spain, Japan, Mexico and many more! 🗺️ \*\*\* Join our [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Hg7zL8ClpzM3agJCvw5HDS) 👈 Follow us on [Instagram](www.instagram.com/practicalphilosophyclub/) 👈 Our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club/) 👈

**Every Friday & Sunday \| All Levels Welcome** Reconnect with your body, breath, and nature through a grounding Hatha Yoga practice set in the lush greenery of Singapore Botanic Gardens. This class is designed to energise the body, calm the mind, and leave you feeling refreshed and centred for the day ahead. **What to Expect** * **Kriya (breathing techniques)** to cleanse and detox the body * **Hatha Asanas** to stretch, strengthen, mobilise, and relax the body * **Pranayama & long mindful relaxation** to quieten the mind and reduce stress * Gentle guidance with **variations for every body**, including complete beginners No prior yoga experience needed. We have been practising there since 2018. If you’ve never done yoga before, you are most welcome 💙 **Class Schedule** **Friday** * 7:15am – 8:15am * 9:00am – 10:30am **Sunday** * 8:00am – 9:30am *Other weekday classes are also available and taught by other teachers:* * Monday: 8:30am – 9:30am * Wednesday: 7:00am - 8:00am **Fees** * **$40 per person (single drop-in)** * Class packages available on [www.namastewithhwee.com](https://www.namastewithhwee.com/booking-calendar/botanic-garden-yoga-class?referral=service_list_widget) **Meeting Point** * Meet **10 minutes before class** * **Botanic Gardens MRT, Exit A (Level 1)** **What to Bring** * Comfortable exercise clothing * Yoga mat * Towel & water bottle **How to Reserve Your Spot** Your spot is **only confirmed after WhatsApp confirmation from the host**. -> **WhatsApp Hwee:**[ +65 9646 9599 ](https://wa.me/6596469599) -> Or purchase a ticket via [www.namastewithhwee.com](https://www.namastewithhwee.com/booking-calendar/botanic-garden-yoga-class?referral=service_list_widget) Follow on social media: Instagram & Facebook: **@NamasteWithHwee** **About the Instructor – Hwee Hwee** Hwee is a yoga instructor who hurt her wrist, dampening her asana practice and just could not recover it 100% with physiotherapy and Traditional Chinese Medicine. A calling drawn her to **Reiki healing** and her recovery progressed so much more! Hwee is an advanced Reiki Level 3 practitioner. With yoga, Hwee fell in love with the **low impact** workout (which was gentle for her teenage injured lower back). Wanting to know yoga beyond the physical aspects (asanas), she went to one of the oldest yoga school in world, G.S. College of Yoga and Cultural Synthesis, Kaivalydham in Lonavla, Pune, India in 2017 and attained her Hatha Yoga teaching certifications from both Kaivalydham and Quality Council of India (QCI) by Indian Yoga Association. Hwee is also into meditation since 2013 and with Hatha Yoga now, the practice between asana (physical exercise) and meditation has integrated into one. > *“We don’t do meditation — meditation happens to us.”* Join Hwee for a nourishing outdoor practice of yoga, pranayama, and gentle healing. Hwee also speaks **Chinese & Japanese.** Instagram & Facebook: **@NamasteWithHwee** [https://www.facebook.com/namastewithhwee/](https://www.facebook.com/namastewithhwee/) [https://www.instagram.com/namastewithhwee/](https://www.instagram.com/namastewithhwee/) [www.namastewithhwee.com](www.namastewithhwee.com)

A few seats left! How to Learn Anything is a practical, science-backed session on how to learn faster without learning badly or slop. We’ll explore how memory works, how the brain adapts through practice, and how to apply proven learning tools like mnemonics, mental models across very different domains - from math and AI to languages, movement, and real-world skills. Hosted by Green and Paula, a learning scientist at NTU + NIE (she's also a speedcuber and Guinness Record holder), this session combines theory with real examples from both cognitive science and high-performance learning. If you have ever wondered why some people seem to pick things up quickly - and whether that can actually be trained - this event is for you. Free to attend. Limited to 30 spots.

**For ages 13 and above.** Aikido is a martial art which originated in Japan with its founder, Morihei Ueshiba, in the early twentieth century and has since grown to become one of the world’s most popular martial arts. At its most basic level, Aikido is an empty-handed system of throwing, joint-locking, striking and pinning techniques, coupled with training in the varying use of sword (bokken), staff (jo) and knife (tanto) techniques. The core principle of Aikido is not to resist the laws of nature but to harmonize without the undue application of aggressive strength. In practice, aikido techniques are applied by efficient redirection of the attacker’s power against him/her using minimal force and without being overly injurious. The word “aikido” is formed of three kanji, namely 合 (ai) meaning joining or unifying, 気 (ki) which means spirit or energy, and 道 (dō) which is loosely interpreted as “the path” or “the way”. ### **Address** 346D King George's Avenue, 5th Floor, Singapore, Singapore ### **Schedule** Sundays 230PM - 330PM ### **Booking Information** * Please contact **98225900** to find out how to book this class. * The instructor will reach out to you once you've booked the class.

The origin of Muraqabah lies in the saying of the Prophet Muhammad SAW, “Adore Allah as if you are seeing Him, and if you do not see Him, know that He is seeing you.” http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/3/d/4/600_322029172.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/a/b/a/600_303906842.jpeg Please visit our webpage for more information (http://www.singapore.sufischool.org)

Join me on Sunday mornings for a hatha yoga class at Botanic Gardens to unwind, stretch, & breathe in the fresh air. Small class size. Hi! I'm Karyn. I organise this small group Hatha Outdoor yoga class for beginners at Singapore Botanic Gardens. Find me at IG [@curiosandyoga](https://www.instagram.com/curiosandyoga/) or [@lalanglifesg](https://www.instagram.com/lalanglifesg/) [Lalang Life](https://www.lalanglife.sg/?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=listing&utm_campaign=meetupevent) (a collective of yoga instructors for private yoga sessions at home/your preferred location). **Small Group Outdoor Hatha Yoga Class at Singapore Botanic Gardens** *Perfect for beginners who want to start their yoga journey in a* UNESCO World Heritage setting. **What You'll Experience:** This is an intimate outdoor hatha yoga class for *newcomers to yoga* and those seeking *a gentle introduction to mindful practice*. With class size **capped at just 4 participants**, you'll receive personalised attention while enjoying the tranquil environment of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. **Who This Class Is For:** * Complete beginners who have never tried yoga before * Busy professionals looking for stress relief in nature * Anyone intimidated by large studio classes who prefers small group settings * Nature lovers who want to combine outdoor time with wellness practice **What Each Session Includes:** * Breathing exercises to ground yourself, centre your mind and be ready for the practice * Gentle loosening and warm-up exercises that prepare your body safely for yoga poses (asanas) * Beginner-friendly yoga asanas (poses) taught with clear, step-by-step guidance * Relaxation and pranayama (breathing techniques) to end your practice **Why Choose Outdoor Yoga at Singapore Botanic Gardens** * Enhanced mental well-being: Studies show that being in green spaces reduces stress * Fresh air & sunshine benefits: Outdoor practice improves oxygen flow and energy levels * Small group: Maximum 4 participants ensures individual attention Class fee is SGD20. Meetup collects payment in USD. If you will like to pay in SGD, sign up on Eventbrite or DM for paynow payment. https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/outdoor-yoga-for-beginners-3548139?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=creatorshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=odclsxcollection&utm-source=cp&aff=escb **Things to bring:** * ***Yoga mat*** * A small towel * Water * Optional ground sheet/picnic mat or large garbage bag. We may practise on the grass. If you might be uncomfortable laying your yoga mat over the grass (which tends to be damp), do bring something to place under your mat. * Insect repellent will be a good idea **Location** **Meeting point.** We'll meet at the open lawn where the **Bougainvilleas and Bamboo collection** is. Look out for my *yellow* bag. * If you are coming from the **Botanic Gardens MRT Exit A** (circle line), (1) enter the gate then walk through Trellis Garden. (2) Take the middle path. (3) Turn right once exiting Trellis Garden. (4) Look out for the bamboo trees. Then walk on the stone path. (5) You should see the open lawn with bougainvilleas. (6) Look out for my Yellow bag. * If driving, the nearest carpark is near Melati Gate. Google map: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/PhHFbQAEFNB7j1pc6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/PhHFbQAEFNB7j1pc6) **Note: In case of rain or otherwise, the session shall be cancelled and not proceed. I will try my best to inform you of such cancellation via your registered email at least 45 minutes before the session. I appreciate your understanding on this. Your fee will be refunded if the class is cancelled due to rain.** **Release and waiver of liability** By your getting a ticket to this event, you: \- consent to the voluntary participation in the yoga session conducted by the organiser; \- understand that you should consult a physician before participating in the yoga session;\- recognise that it is your responsibility to notify the organiser of any serious illness or injury before the yoga session; \- will not perform any postures to the extent of strain or pain; \- assume full responsibility for any risks\, injuries\, or damages\, known or unknown\, which I might incur because of the yoga session; \- knowingly\, voluntarily\, and expressly waive any claim you may have against the organiser\, for injury or damages that you may sustain because of participating in the yoga session\. **Photography/videography** Photos and/or videos may be taken during the class. The photos/videos may be put up in the public domain for publicity purposes. If you do not wish to have your photo/video used, please inform me during the class.

Join us in an experiential healing Kintsugi workshop in a calm serene setting acccompanied by soothing meditative music and scents. Kintsugi is Japanese ancient art of mending broken pottery. It essentially teaches us to appreciate and celebrate the broken pottery’s flaws and cracks. During the 2 hour session, you will learn all about the origins and history of Kintsugi, types of Kintsugi, how Kintsugi teaches us sustainability and very importantly how Kintsugi is a healing art. Please bring along any broken ceramics if you hv. If you do not have any, it’s alright as we have plenty of ceramics to choose from in the studio. Free flow of Japanese Green Tea is also provided during the session.

Join us for an afternoon of peace, relaxation, & healing. This FREE Spring Open House is a beautiful way to step into sacred community by enjoying nourishing food, heartfelt connection, and complimentary sessions. We will be offering FREE mini services: Wax Scryings, Intuitive Readings, Somatic Healing, Soul Embodiment Light Activations, Reiki & Multidimensional Energy Healing, Channeled Card Messages, Vibrational Sound Healing, Healing Infrared Dome Sauna, Chakra & Meridian Healing & Energy Body Clearing & Activation, Psychic Readings, Meditation, Wellness Coaching, & more! Time slots will be available first come, first serve. Optional RSVP to Caitlynn at: [kalik.wellnesswithin@gmail.com] We will also be offering ongoing group talks and activities in our group room. Dr. Ryan Brown, Metaphysician & Transformational Trainer will be speaking at 3pm! This is a perfect opportunity to meet each practitioner & receive an introduction to the many different healing modalities we offer. Spiritual & Wholistic gifts and Gift Certificates & Packages will be available to purchase. They make a great gift for yourself or as a holiday gift of self-care for your friends and family. Mini Service Offerings: Ammatara: Wax Scryings, Intuitive Readings, Somatic Healing, & Soul Embodiment Light Activations Caitlynn: Energy Healing & Channeled Card Messages Ellen: Vibrational Sound Healing Team Member: Healing Infrared Dome Sauna Group Room Talks/Demos: Session 1 \| Intro to Center & Practitioners with Ammatara Session 2 \| Soulbits Circle with Caitlynn Session 3 \| Alternative Medicine with Dr\. Carlos Session 3 \| Group Sound Healing with Ellen Session 4 \| Somatic Healing\, Releasing & Return to Love with Ammatara Session 5 \| Frequency Shifting with Dr\. Ryan Brown Hosted by The Center for New Life Practitioners 6797 N. High Street Suite 333 Worthington Ohio 43085 \*Entrance up the orange ramp to right of building and to 3rd floor\*

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

Main Library, Meeting Room 3B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.

⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) **Join the Columbus City Brunch Club and make new friends!** Each meetup brings together 4–6 people for casual conversations over brunch. We use the Groupvibe platform to facilitate the meetup and ensure everyone’s a good fit. 👉 **To attend, you’ll need to complete registration via this link:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) We’ll share the exact location of the upcoming meetup the night before only if you have bought a ticket or membership plan. **Why this works:** \* Smaller groups make real conversations easier. \* Discover new restaurants in your city, together. \* Curated lunch venues with good food and vibe. \* If you hit it off with your group, there’s plenty of time to hang out afterwards. **Note:** RSVPs on Meetup don’t reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website. The event on [Meetup.com](http://meetup.com/) is only a placeholder. This meetup is organized by Groupvibe, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.

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

This month's prompt concerns the idea of the “warrior philosopher” (seemed appropriate in these times)--that is someone whose understanding of violence, power, and justice is forged through direct experience of war. We are looking at Major General Smedley D. Butler, a highly decorated U.S. Marine raised in a Quaker (pacifist) tradition who later became a prominent critic of American militarism (there is a wonderful biography of Gen. Butler called "Gangsters of Capitalism") Butler's argument in *War Is a Racket* (1935): that many U.S. interventions were driven less by national defense than by corporate and financial interests, with Butler portraying himself as an enforcer for business and Wall Street. We can consider the moral ambiguity of his insider critique—whether complicity strengthens or undermines credibility and also consider some of the concrete reforms he proposed (e.g., “conscript” capital before soldiers, restrict the military to coastal defense, and have only those who fight decide on war). Butler’s life arc clearly changed from pacifist upbringing to warrior to antiwar crusader—and asks whether true understanding of peace requires firsthand knowledge of war, and what that implies about the cost of suffering. So do we need to suffer to understand suffering? Do we have to experience war to appreciate peace? As one more question: in the movie "A Few Good Men" Jack Nicholson's character says that "you have the luxury of not knowing what I know" so do most of us go through life oblivious to real violence and suffering? See you at Drunken Philosophy!