Philosophy of Mind

**Labor: Past, Present, and Future – Work, Power, and Purpose** Labor is a defining force of human life. It shapes how we survive, how societies are organized, and how power and resources are distributed. Work can provide stability, dignity, and meaning—but it can also lead to inequality, exploitation, and exhaustion. More than just an individual experience, labor is a collective reality that reflects the structure of our world. At its foundation, labor is tied to survival. Like all living beings, humans must expend energy to sustain life. Our bodies and minds are wired for effort, cooperation, and problem-solving. Yet human labor goes far beyond biology—it is structured by economic systems, cultural values, and political decisions that determine who works, how, and for whose benefit. Across history, labor has continuously evolved—and so have the struggles surrounding it. Workers have organized to demand rights, protections, and fair wages, giving rise to unions, movements, and political parties. In many countries, labor movements shaped modern democracy, from the Social Democratic Party of Germany in Germany to the Labour Party in the UK, alongside similar movements across Europe and beyond. These efforts are remembered and celebrated globally on Labor Day. Labor is not only a human phenomenon. In the natural world, cooperation, division of roles, and collective effort are essential for survival—from insect colonies to social mammals. These systems offer a broader perspective on work as something deeply rooted in life itself, while also highlighting what makes human labor unique: its complexity, inequality, and capacity for change. In today’s world, labor is undergoing rapid transformation. Automation, digital platforms, and globalization are reshaping traditional employment. Stable careers are giving way to flexible—and sometimes precarious—forms of work. At the same time, the psychological experience of labor is becoming more visible: questions of burnout, motivation, identity, and purpose are central to how people relate to their work. Looking ahead, the future of labor may challenge long-held assumptions. Artificial intelligence and robotics could significantly reduce the need for human labor in many sectors, while increasing demand in others. This raises fundamental questions: What is the role of work in human life? How should wealth be distributed? And how do we define purpose in a world where labor is no longer central to survival? We will explore how labor has evolved through history—from early forms of work to modern economies—and how worker movements and political forces like the Social Democratic Party of Germany and the Labour Party shaped rights and social change. We’ll also reflect on labor as a biological, psychological, and social experience—how effort, motivation, and cooperation shape both humans and the natural world—and how work today is being transformed by technology, from gig economies to automation. Finally, we’ll look ahead to the future of labor, asking what happens if work changes fundamentally, and how we might rethink purpose, fairness, and the role of labor in our lives. Join us for a critical and engaging discussion on labor—not only as work, but as a force that shapes society, identity, and the future. Together, we’ll reflect on how labor defines our lives today and how it might be reimagined tomorrow. *** 📅 Event Details 🗓️ Date: Saturday, 18 April 2026 ⏰ Time: 14:30 📍 Location: Hardenbergstraße 10, 10623 Berlin 📱 WhatsApp: For prep materials and directions (Group Chat) [Group Chat](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ba8ZAaH2Yuk6FGmD3LLO7H)

A nourishing space for self-reflection and growth. Explore the principles of Tantra through direct experience and **welcome a more liberated version of yourself.** Living Tantra is a workshop series created for those who wish to deepen their exploration of Tantra. Inspired by ancient Tantric philosophy, each gathering takes us into a new theme through embodiment, meditation, energy practices and more. These sessions are for anyone who’s curious about **Tantra as a path for healing, expansion and connection.** Whether you are looking for an opportunity to explore yourself in a deeper way, to connect authentically with others, to find wholesome nourishment or, to be inspired; this Living Tantra workshop series provides a regular moment of connection with yourself, with others and with the teachings of Tantra. **Modern Tantra but different**; this is not a temple nor a massage. These are heart-centered journeys inviting you to explore different facets of yourself so you may become a wider, fuller and more liberated version of yourself. **Desire** This time, we explore **desire as a vehicle into realising your innate fullness.** Tantra is widely known as a path where one can embrace desires, expand pleasure, and follow ecstasy. Tantric philosophy does not view desire as an obstacle. Instead, it sees desire as an opportunity—a means for liberation. While it is already liberating to stop suppressing desires, this is not the kind of liberation that Tantric scriptures point toward. So, how then do your desires become a means for liberation? What is at the root of your desires? And, what is the role of pleasure in all this? Come explore this Tantric philosophy and tap into your inner wisdom. **In this edition of Living Tantra, you will be invited to:** 🔹Explore what it is that you truly want 🔹Practice recognising and following (or expressing) your desires 🔹 Discover how desire becomes a means for liberation **What to expect** 🔸Introduction to the role of desire within Tantra 🔸Warm up, get to know the group, practice setting boundaries, agreement on consent 🔸Curated heart-centred journey designed to guide you deeper 🔸Well balanced program with solo-, partner- and group practices 🔸New practices (for those that have been to my other formats) 🔸Exploring pleasure and desire with self and in connection to others 🔸Conscious sensual touch (if this is within your consent) 🔸A cosy and comfortable studio 🔸A short break to have a meal or snack (bring yourself) **Expected benefits** These journeys offer a space for self-reflection and growth. The growth that happens in this space allows for a more liberated sense of self outside of the space. You are likely to emerge with a renewed sense of connection and peace. **Good to know** * The entire journey is clothed * Maximum 16 participants **What to bring** * Comfortable clothing * Water bottle * Meal or snack **Tickets: 85€** [Please book your spot here.](https://www.sophieheldens.com/tickets?utm_source=meetup&utm_campaign=livingtantradesire) **📍Praxis Köpi** Köpenicker Straße 175 10997 Berlin Kreuzberg Walk to the second courtyard and take the stairs to the front door on the left **Please note:** Praxis Köpi is located on the 5th floor and there is no elevator available. Only book a ticket if you can walk the stairs. The benefit: a beautiful private studio with loads of natural light. **!! Please arrive 10 minutes early so we can start on time !!** Once we start the session, I can’t let you in anymore because it disturbs the class. Please do yourself and the group a favour by coming on time. Thank you! **About the facilitator** Hi! My name is Sophie. My passion for Tantra is rooted in a deep spiritual yearning and an inner knowing that Tantra is my path. My desire to teach Tantra has been sparked by having witnessed my own growth and healing as a result of these practices and it is inspired by a vision to create a more beautiful world. I create a space that is loving and nurturing, with a strong emphasis on ensuring that you feel save and supported. My workshops are gentle yet transformative, spiritual yet grounded and always heart-centered. I'm passionate about bridging the wisdom of ancient Tantra with modern-day practices. For more information, feel free to visit my website: [www.sophieheldens.com](https://www.sophieheldens.com/berlin/tantra-group-singles-workshops/living-tantra-series?utm_source=meetup&utm_campaign=livingtantradesire&utm_medium=eventpage) **Upcoming themes & dates** 🧘 **17.01** Consciousness: tap into an expanded state of Self 💛 **21.02** Love: explore Life's essence ☯️ **14.03** Non-duality: find wholeness through opposites 🫦 **18.04** Desire: come home to your Self *& more to be published* *PS. despite seemingly low attendance on Meetup, these events always take place with sufficient participants unless communicated differently*

**😶‍🌫️ Working with Pain, challenging emotions & thoughts 🫣** *"Karma, or destiny, is an expression of a beneficial law: the universal trend towards balance, harmony and unity. At every moment, whatever happens now, is for the best. It may appear painful and ugly, a suffering bitter and meaningless, yet considering the past and the future it is for the best, as the only way out of a disastrous situation*." (Nisargadatta Maharaj) **"Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional" is a popular phrase. Most people on the spiritual path face at least at some point pain, challenging emotions and other potential obstacles. On the flip side, there are fascinating practices that focus on working with pain, other 'unpleasant' appearances as well as thoughts and regard them as highly valuable objects to develop insight and other qualities.** **Let’s share for an afternoon about Pain, thoughts, challenging emotions and potential obstacles, what they means for us and what their role may be on the spiritual journey.** *“If we give in to our habits of avoiding discomfort, we transform conscious pain (mostly emotional and psychological) into unconscious cramps. [...] We instinctively contract away from acute pain, but that ironically ensures chronic suffering. [...] Suffering is an inappropriate relationship to pain. And by reversing that relationship, we can relieve our suffering.”* (Andrew Holecek) 💫 **What this event offers for you:** - Guided Meditations for arriving, calming the mind and tuning into your intuition - Meeting people interested in spirituality (all levels) - Safe Space for sharing - non-hierarchical and non-judgemental - Opportunity to ask just about any question **👀 You may watch one or few of the following Videos for inspiration:** - Mingyur Rinpoche on Meditation with pain ([Youtube](https://youtu.be/f7NEiKkdwq8?is=jcVU-h5Mp1TpA_H7)) - Shinzen Young on Meditation with Pain ([Youtube](https://youtu.be/5IU6UbRbJvQ?is=OBEhyU-QVGon1uWl)) - Testimonial of a Student of Shinzen Young on an experience of meditating with pain ([Youtube](https://youtu.be/MBI3CRqiSAo?is=tvfB9NUtU8xh9jmu)) - Andrew Holoczek on Reverse Meditation on the Sounds True Podcast ([Youtube](https://youtu.be/_WPP5GL-3-0?is=O4xOxLUnnrf4EDuE)) **About the Organizer** Martin is a certified Mindfulness Teacher, Systemic Coach, Yogi and Altruist by heart who teaches Meditation and Martial Arts in different formats. However, in this meetup Martin focuses on the altruistic intention to open a space for people to share while offering as much facilitation as needed in the moment. "*A personal problem cannot be solved on its own level. The very desire to live is the messenger of death, as the longing to be happy is the outline of sorrow. The world is an ocean of pain and fear, of anxiety and despair. Pleasures are like the fishes, few and swift, rarely come, quickly* *gone. A man of low intelligence believes, against all evidence, that he is an exception and that the world owes him happiness. But the world cannot give what it does not have; unreal to the core, it is of no use for real happiness. It cannot be otherwise. We seek the real because we are unhappy with the unreal. Happiness is our real nature and we shall never rest until we find it. But rarely we know where to seek it. Once you have understood that the world is but a mistaken view of reality, and is not what it appears* *to be, you are free of its obsessions. Only what is compatible with your real being can make you happy and the world, as you perceive it, is its outright denial. Keep very quiet and watch what comes to the surface of the mind. Reject the known, welcome the so far unknown and reject it in its turn."* (Nisargadatta Maharaj)

[Deutsch findest du unten] ℹ️Please read all info! **The Mindful Play Lab – Rediscover Presence Through Play 🌿✨** You arrive stressed, stuck in your head, tired from everyday life, maybe curious or a little unsure. You leave feeling lighter, calmer, clearer… and with a smile on your face. In the Mindful Play Lab, mindfulness becomes not only calm, but also playful and full of joy. Outdoors in the park, we combine conscious awareness with movement, small games, and genuine human connection. There’s space to laugh, explore, and discover. Instead of sitting still, you’ll dive into simple, creative exercises that bring you into the here and now—sometimes quiet and mindful, sometimes lively and playful. No pressure, no “right or wrong,” just curiosity and ease. **You can expect:** * Playful mindfulness exercises in nature * Connection, presence, and shared experiences * Practices that build trust, awareness, and presence * Moments to pause and to laugh This event is for you if you’d like to experience mindfulness with more joy, lightness, and aliveness. Come as you are. And leave with more presence, more connection—and a lot more joy. 💫 **📍 Location / Meeting Point: “Klingende Blume,” a sculpture located next to the S-Bahn station Treptower Park** **💫 Energy Exchange: €10–€20 (pay what feels right for you)** **⏰ Please note: We will leave the meeting point shortly after the start, so please arrive on time. We will wait up to 10 minutes max.** **📱 In case you can't find us: +49 (0) 1573 72 48 15 7 (I will only pick up the phone until 2:10 PM)** \-\-\-\-\-\- [Deutsch:] The Mindful Play Lab – Rediscover Presence Through Play 🌿✨ Du kommst gestresst, verkopft, müde vom Alltag, vielleicht neugierig oder ein bisschen unsicher. Du gehst leichter, entspannter, klarer… und mit einem Lächeln im Gesicht. Im Mindful Play Lab wird Achtsamkeit nicht nur ruhig, sondern auch spielerisch und voller Freude erlebbar. Draußen im Park verbinden wir bewusste Wahrnehmung mit Bewegung, kleinen Spielen und echten Begegnungen. Es darf gelacht, ausprobiert und entdeckt werden. Statt still zu sitzen, tauchst du in einfache, kreative Übungen ein, die dich ins Hier und Jetzt bringen – mal ruhig und achtsam, mal lebendig und verspielt. Ohne Druck, ohne „richtig oder falsch“, dafür mit Neugier und Leichtigkeit. **Dich erwarten:** * Spielerische Achtsamkeitsübungen in der Natur * Begegnung, Verbindung und gemeinsames Erleben * Übungen für Vertrauen, Präsenz und Wahrnehmung * Momente zum Innehalten und zum Lachen Dieses Event ist für dich, wenn du Achtsamkeit mit mehr Freude, Leichtigkeit und Lebendigkeit entdecken möchtest. Komm, wie du bist. Und geh mit mehr Präsenz, mehr Verbindung – und ganz viel Freude. 💫 **📍 Ort / Treffpunkt: „Klingende Blume“, eine Skulptur neben der S-Bahn-Station Treptower Park** **💫 Energieausgleich: 10–20 € (zahl, was sich für dich stimmig anfühlt)** **⏰ Bitte beachten: Wir verlassen den Treffpunkt kurz nach Beginn, daher sei bitte pünktlich. Wir warten maximal 10 Minuten.** **📱 Falls du uns nicht findest: +49 (0) 1573 72 48 15 7 (ich bin telefonisch nur bis 14:10 Uhr erreichbar)**

Viele Männer funktionieren gut. Im Job, in der Beziehung, im Alltag. Aber irgendwann kommt dieses Gefühl: Das hier bin nicht wirklich ich. Nicht unbedingt als großer Knall. Eher als leises Unbehagen. Das Gefühl, dass mehr in dir steckt, als du bisher gelebt hast, und du noch nie wirklich den Raum hattest, dieser Frage ehrlich nachzugehen. Genau dafür ist dieser Workshop. Du arbeitest in Übungen, die dir zeigen, was du über dich selbst bereits weißt, aber noch nicht siehst. Du sprichst mit anderen Männern, die sich dieselben Fragen stellen. Was du dabei entdeckst, lässt sich schwer in Worte fassen. Für Männer, die anfangen hinzuschauen. Die nicht mehr jeden unbequemen Gedanken wegdrücken wollen. Die bereit sind, sich selbst eine ehrliche Antwort zu geben. Du brauchst keine Vorerfahrung. Keine bestimmte Lebenssituation. Nur die Bereitschaft, für drei Stunden wirklich da zu sein. \-\-\- Das Event wird in Deutsch gehalten. \-\-\- **Praktische Infos** * **Ort:** HeileHaus e.V., Waldemarstraße 36, 10999 Berlin * **Uhrzeit:** 11:00 – 14:00 Uhr * **Dauer:** ca. 3 Stunden * **Eintritt:** 10 € (Barzahlung oder PayPal vor Ort) * **Teilnehmerzahl:** Plätze sind begrenzt. 6-14 Männer.

[Deutsch findest du unten] ℹ️**Please read all info!** **The Mindful Play Lab – Rediscover Presence Through Play 🌿✨** You arrive stressed, stuck in your head, tired from everyday life, maybe curious or a little unsure. You leave feeling lighter, calmer, clearer… and with a smile on your face. In the **Mindful Play Lab**, mindfulness becomes not only calm, but also playful and full of joy. Outdoors in the park, we combine conscious awareness with movement, small games, and genuine human connection. There’s space to laugh, explore, and discover. Instead of sitting still, you’ll dive into simple, creative exercises that bring you into the here and now—sometimes quiet and mindful, sometimes lively and playful. No pressure, no “right or wrong,” just curiosity and ease. **You can expect:** * Playful mindfulness exercises in nature * Connection, presence, and shared experiences * Practices that build trust, awareness, and presence * Moments to pause and to laugh This event is for you if you’d like to experience mindfulness with more joy, lightness, and aliveness. Come as you are. And leave with more presence, more connection—and a lot more joy. 💫 📍 **Location / Meeting Point:** “Klingende Blume,” a sculpture located next to the S-Bahn station Treptower Park 💫 **Energy Exchange:** €10–€20 (pay what feels right for you) ⏰ **Please note:** We will leave the meeting point shortly after the start, so please arrive on time. We will wait up to 10 minutes max. 📱 **In case you can't find us**: +49 (0) 1573 72 48 15 7 (I will only pick up the phone until 2:10 PM) \-\-\-\-\-\- [Deutsch:] **The Mindful Play Lab – Rediscover Presence Through Play 🌿✨** Du kommst gestresst, verkopft, müde vom Alltag, vielleicht neugierig oder ein bisschen unsicher. Du gehst leichter, entspannter, klarer… und mit einem Lächeln im Gesicht. Im **Mindful Play Lab** wird Achtsamkeit nicht nur ruhig, sondern auch spielerisch und voller Freude erlebbar. Draußen im Park verbinden wir bewusste Wahrnehmung mit Bewegung, kleinen Spielen und echten Begegnungen. Es darf gelacht, ausprobiert und entdeckt werden. Statt still zu sitzen, tauchst du in einfache, kreative Übungen ein, die dich ins Hier und Jetzt bringen – mal ruhig und achtsam, mal lebendig und verspielt. Ohne Druck, ohne „richtig oder falsch“, dafür mit Neugier und Leichtigkeit. **Dich erwarten:** * Spielerische Achtsamkeitsübungen in der Natur * Begegnung, Verbindung und gemeinsames Erleben * Übungen für Vertrauen, Präsenz und Wahrnehmung * Momente zum Innehalten und zum Lachen Dieses Event ist für dich, wenn du Achtsamkeit mit mehr Freude, Leichtigkeit und Lebendigkeit entdecken möchtest. Komm, wie du bist. Und geh mit mehr Präsenz, mehr Verbindung – und ganz viel Freude. 💫 📍 **Ort / Treffpunkt:** „Klingende Blume“, eine Skulptur neben der S-Bahn-Station Treptower Park 💫 **Energieausgleich:** 10–20 € (zahl, was sich für dich stimmig anfühlt) ⏰ **Bitte beachten:** Wir verlassen den Treffpunkt kurz nach Beginn, daher sei bitte pünktlich. Wir warten maximal 10 Minuten. 📱 **Falls du uns nicht findest:** +49 (0) 1573 72 48 15 7 (ich bin telefonisch nur bis 14:10 Uhr erreichbar)

*For English version please scroll down* **„Not (so) Human“ ist eine experimentelle Arbeit der Choreografin Christine Saulut Bonansea mit dem Komponisten Luca Foruccio.** In der interdisziplinären Performance erforschen die beiden Künstler\*innen mit interaktiven Visuals, Sounds und zeitgenössischem Tanz das Konzept der „Augmentation“, der Erweiterung menschlicher Fähigkeiten mit Hilfe von KI. So entsteht eine einzigartige Choreografie, die eine faszinierende Spannung zwischen körperlicher Präsenz und der körperlosen Natur künstlicher Intelligenz entfesselt. Christine Bonansea erschafft interdisziplinäre Werke mit digitalen Medien. Ihre Arbeit wird von US-amerikanischen und deutschen Stiftungen unterstützt und umfasst VR, AR und Robotik. Dauer der Performance: ca. 50 Minuten Sprachen des anschließenden Austauschs: Deutsch, Englisch, Spanisch, Portugiesisch **[Online-Tickets](https://dock11-berlin.de/theater/service/tickets) für die Vorstellung (€ 15 normal / € 10 ermäßigt / € 25 Soli-Ticket zzgl. Vorverkaufsgebühr) bitte rechtzeitig kaufen. Der Gesprächsaustausch im Anschluss ist kostenlos.** **Check: [itsamatch.art](https://itsamatch.art/)**[ ](https://itsamatch.art/) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- *English version* **“Not (so) Human” is an experimental work by choreographer Christine Saulut Bonansea in collaboration with composer Luca Foruccio.** In this interdisciplinary performance, the two artists explore the concept of “augmentation” – the enhancement of human capabilities through AI – using interactive visuals, sounds and contemporary dance. The result is a unique choreography that unleashes a fascinating tension between physical presence and the disembodied nature of artificial intelligence. Christine Bonansea creates interdisciplinary works using digital media. Her work is supported by US and German foundations and encompasses VR, AR and robotics. Duration of performance: aprox. 50 minutes Languages of exchange after the show: German, English, Spanish, Portuguese **Please buy [online tickets](https://dock11-berlin.de/theater/service/tickets) for the performance (€ 15 normal / € 10 reduced / € 25 solidarity ticket plus advance booking fee) in good time. The dialogue afterwards is free of charge.** **Check: [itsamatch.art](https://itsamatch.art/)**[ ](https://itsamatch.art/)

Wachstum, Entfaltung des eigenen Potentials, Selbstverwirklichung (oder im Englischen Self-Actualization) sind Wörter, die für viele Menschen eine wichtige Rolle spielen, ja man könnte sagen, dass sich mit ihnen Glaubensvorstellungen verbinden, die einer Religion ähneln. Wo aber gehört der Begriff Selbstverwirklichung hin? Zu Psychologie, Biologie, Philosophie, Religion, zum Coaching oder auf die Müllhalde der Geistesgeschichte? Obwohl schon Aristoteles über die Entelechie (das Innehaben des Ziels) sprach, wurde der moderne Begriff erst im 20. Jahrhundert wissenschaftlich geformt. Der Neurologe Kurt Goldstein prägte den Begriff in seinem Werk „Der Aufbau des Organismus“. Er betrachtete Selbstverwirklichung als einen biologischen Drang, als Triebkraft eines Organismus, all seine Kapazitäten auszuschöpfen. Ein Organismus strebt danach, seine Integrität zu wahren und sein Potenzial in der Umwelt zu entfalten. Abraham Maslow ist der Name, den die meisten heute mit dem Begriff verbinden. In seinem Aufsatz „A Theory of Human Motivation“ stellte er die berühmte Bedürfnishierarchie vor. Selbstverwirklichung steht an der Spitze der Pyramide. Er definierte es als das Verlangen, immer mehr das zu werden, was man ist, und alles zu werden, wozu man fähig ist. Im Gegensatz zu Goldstein sah Maslow es als ein "Wachstumsbedürfnis", das erst richtig aktiv wird, wenn Defizitbedürfnisse (wie Hunger oder Sicherheit) gestillt sind. Der Psychotherapeut Carl Rogers integrierte das Konzept in seine klientenzentrierte Gesprächspsychotherapie. Er glaubte, dass jeder Mensch eine innere Tendenz hat, sich selbst zu erhalten und zu fördern. Psychische Probleme entstehen laut Rogers dann, wenn diese Entfaltung durch äußere Bedingungen (z.B. mangelnde Akzeptanz) blockiert wird. Maslow und Rogers gelten als Gründerfiguren der so genannten humanistischen Psychologie, die sich weniger an Defiziten als an positiven Möglichkeiten orientieren wollte. In der Psychologie wurde darüber debattiert, ob die Thesen der humanistischen Psychologie wissenschaftlich prüfbar sind. Kann man Selbstverwirklichung wirklich messen? Was "volles Potenzial" bedeutet, ist subjektiv. Für den einen ist es das Malen von Meisterwerken, für den anderen die Erziehung von Kindern. Kritiker werfen dem Konzept vor, sehr westlich und individualistisch geprägt zu sein. In kollektivistischen Kulturen wird "Selbstverwirklichung" oft durch den Beitrag zur Gemeinschaft definiert, nicht durch die eigene Entfaltung. Die humanistische Psychologie verschwand zusammen mit ihren Therapien aus den Universitäten und Ausbildungsstellen. Die so genannte Positive Psychologie versucht, das Erbe anzutreten. Moderne Forscher dieser Richtung haben das Konzept in messbare Faktoren zerlegt: Autonomie, Kompetenz und soziale Eingebundenheit. Diese drei Faktoren sind empirisch extrem gut belegt und gelten als moderne, wissenschaftliche Entsprechung der Selbstverwirklichung. Was aber wird aus der Idee, dass wir ein Potential in uns tragen, dass es zu entfalten gilt? Ist das – wenigstens als Glaubensvorstellung oder Orientierung - noch sinnvoll?

​Artificial intelligence is evolving at an extraordinary pace and is already reshaping how we work, learn, create, and make decisions. Some see AI as a powerful tool that will enhance human potential and solve global problems. Others warn about risks: bias, automation, loss of control, and long-term societal impact. ​In this meeting, we will explore AI from both perspectives — techno-optimism and techno-pessimism. What can AI actually do today? How does it work under the hood? Where are its real strengths, and where are its limitations? And how should we think about its future development? ​We invite both professionals and non-professionals to join the discussion. Whether you work with AI, study it, are simply curious about it, or approach it from philosophy, psychology, sociology, or everyday experience — your perspective is welcome. ## **​Preparation & Suggested Materials** ​To help you prepare, we’ve put together a curated reading list that includes books, research papers, articles, interviews, and practical guides. The world of AI moves fast, so alongside well-known books you will also find recent articles and research projects. ​You don’t need to read everything. Choosing one book, article, or even a short explainer is enough to take part in the discussion. You’re also welcome to bring your own material, as long as it relates to artificial intelligence and its societal impact. ​The full list of suggested readings (with links) is available here: ​[https://docs.google.com/document/d/17PoZmqzxQ5EJsET292lTI193ms_MZNvgv5XAnbVmRBY/edit?usp=sharing](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Hu_dLOgnzvrfgE3CZQVBz6CqyPIgAMWxYE24o4yx3fQ/edit?usp=sharing&utm_source=luma) ***​Popular-Science Books*** ​Accessible but substantial books that explain how AI works and how it affects society. For example: * ​*Co-Intelligence* by Ethan Mollick * ​*Hello World* by Hannah Fry * ​*Artificial Intelligence: A Guide for Thinking Humans* by Melanie Mitchell * ​*Homo Deus* by Yuval Noah Harari ​***Scientific & Popular Articles*** ​Shorter texts for those with limited preparation time. These include: * ​A brief history of AI (Haenlein & Kaplan) * ​“On the Dangers of Stochastic Parrots” (Bender et al.) * ​Stephen Wolfram’s explainer on how ChatGPT works * ​Andrew Ng’s “AI is the New Electricity” ​***Real-World Applications & Practical Guides*** ​Materials for those interested in applied AI: * ​KDnuggets blog (case studies and practical use) * ​*Deep Learning Illustrated* * ​Google’s Prompt Engineering Guide ***​Research Projects*** ​For a forward-looking perspective: * ​Epoch AI * ​AI 2027 scenario ## **Important Information** ​​We aim to create a safe, inclusive space for sharing ideas and learning from different perspectives. Respectful dialogue is encouraged, and participants are asked to follow our **[Code of Conduct](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zhC3yhSvmAoO4wx5TlEmW-oyxs5FhCXN7MD0f0I_SAc/edit?tab=t.0&utm_source=luma)**. * ​​**Age 16+** * ​​The discussion will be held **in English.** * ​​**Registration is required** to attend the event. * ​​Participation is free. Donations are optional and help support our meetings.

Chitta Walks is for people whose days move fast, while the mind never fully lands. Thoughts keep looping even when nothing is urgent. The body moves, but attention is elsewhere. Over time, this disconnect drains clarity and ease. This walk is a simple reset. We meet in Berlin’s Tiergarten and walk at a gentle pace. Parts of the walk are in silence, with light guidance and a few short prompts. The walk itself is the practice, bringing body and mind back into the same moment. No apps. No performance. Just a clear space to slow down and notice what is happening. If you want to slow down without withdrawing from life, join a Chitta Walk. ✨ **What to expect (approx. 90 minutes):** * A short arrival and orientation * A guided silent walk (phones off, no conversation) * One concise science-based impulse on attention or stress * Optional reflection in pairs or small groups * A simple takeaway or experiment for daily life 🚶**Who this is for:** * Professionals, creatives, and people in transition. * People who feel mentally busy and want more clarity and balance. * Those curious about mindfulness, but grounded and practical. * Anyone comfortable with silence and gentle self observation. 🔔 **Practical notes:** * Duration: 60-90 minutes * Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing * No prior experience needed * Group size is limited to keep the space quiet and focused 🧭 **Facilitator:** My name is Partha Sarathi, you can call me PS. I have lived in Berlin for over 12 years. With a background in physics and materials science, my interest in mindfulness grew through personal experience with stress and health challenges. I facilitate the space and structure of the walk, inviting shared exploration rather than instruction. 🤔 **Why Chitta Walks?** Chitta is a Sanskrit word referring to the mind or field of awareness, used here in a practical, non-religious sense. Chitta Walks is about noticing how the mind works by slowing down and walking together. Mindful walking makes thought patterns visible in real time, while moving and sensing in the world. The name points to a simple capacity: noticing what is happening in the mind without immediately trying to fix, judge, or optimize it. 🌿 **Possible effects:** A calmer nervous system. Clearer attention. A felt sense of being more present in your body. Subtle insights into how your mind reacts under everyday conditions. A quieter, more grounded way of moving through the city. **Come as you are. Walk. Notice. Leave with a little more space inside.**

**UPDATE!** **Since it is predicted to rain tomorrow, we will meet near the entrance to KERB Food Hall at Potsdamer Platz. I will bring a polka dot umbrella so you can find us.** **See you soon!** Hello HSPs. Let's meet in Tiergarten (in the Platz near Amazone zu Pferde) to talk and hang out in the park. We will have three different discussion groups lead by HSP Meet-Up Members which will run from 12:10 to 13:00. Then we will find a place on the grass next to Platz for more unstructured socialising. Feel free to join for all or part of the event. If you would like to lead a discussion group please give us a sign. If the weather is predicting rain, we will meet in front of KERB at Sony Center. Hope to see you there!

Join our weekly Evenings of Meditation, to gently meet yourself, dissolve stress and live life from beautiful inner states. These gatherings are not just about meditating on your own, but a step inward we take together. Each time we’ll look into a particular topic in the light of timeless wisdom, reflect on it in a guided meditation, do powerful Oneness practices for greater wellbeing, and receive Deeksha - a phenomenon that helps to speed up your inner growth. For more information see: www.onenessberlin.com **This week's topic: Reacting vs responding in relationships** Often, we find ourselves being reactive in all kinds of relationships - whether with family, partner, friends, or colleagues. It deteriorates the quality of our relationships, and with that the quality of our experience of life. Let’s explore together what can help us shift from reacting to responding, and how this shift can transform our lives. **How to join** **[Get a ticket starting from € 5 >>>](https://momence.com/Oneness-Berlin/Evening-of-Meditation/133759137)** Walk-ins are also welcome for €10 paid on arrival, it's just for us to pay for the space. You’re welcome, no matter your background or experience. This is what has worked for us over many years and we love to share it with you. Looking forward to see you, Oneness Berlin Florian and Jazgul

Bist du bereit für viele positive Veränderungen? Dann kommt der Access Bars® Kurs genau richtig für dich! Jeden Tag erleben knapp eine Million Menschen weltweit die transformative Kraft dieses Körperprozesses. Wissenschaftliche Studien belegen die positiven Wirkungen auf das Gehirn, das Nervensystem und den Körper. Die Access Bars® berühren alle Aspekte des Lebens: Beziehung, Körper, Alterung, Heilung, Selbstliebe, Freude, Trauer, Beziehung und Kommunikation, innerer Frieden ua. Klick auf meine Website und erfahre, was die Bars® bewirken können und welche kraftvollen Werkzeuge du an diesem Kurstag mit nach Hause nimmst. https://www.i-feel-so-good.de/access-consciousness/kurse-ausbildungen/access-bars-kurs.html Nachdem du den Kurs abgeschlossen hast, erhältst du das Practitioner Zertifikat. Es qualifiziert dich, die Access Bars® anderen zu geben, deinen Familienmitgliedern, deinen Freunden und deinen Klienten. Und natürlich kannst du die Bars® auch bei dir selbst anwenden. Nach dem Kurs kannst du dich mit anderen Praktizierenden zum Austausch treffen. Bist du bereit für ein leichteres Leben? Dann freue ich mich, wenn du mit dabei bist! Kontaktiere mich gerne, wenn du Fragen hast oder eine Kennenlernsession buchen möchtest. PS: Die Anmeldung für den Kurs ist nur telefonisch möglich.

Ein Toast auf die Rhetorik. Wie wir aus dem Stegreif begeistern. Mit Tipps und Tricks für spontanes Reden. Allgemeine Infos Sich wortgewandter ausdrücken, bei einer Präsenation glänzen oder mit einer Rede auf der nächsten Feier alle vom Hocker hauen - all das und noch viel mehr können Sie hier lernen. Der Rhetorik-Club Mut und Rede Toastmasters Neukölln stellt sich vor und lädt Sie ein, Ihre eigenen Redekünste auf die Probe zu stellen. Weitere Infos Keine Vorkenntnisse erforderlich.

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.

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!

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

**How to take control of your subconscious and harness its power!** Join us for an eye-opening lecture where the speaker will break down complex ideas in a clear and practical way. You’ll gain insights into: ✅ The true definition of the subconscious ✅ How it generates unwanted emotions ✅ Its real purpose and function ✅ What determines the pressure it exerts on you And the most important topic: **How do you take control of your subconscious!** But this isn’t just another lecture where you sit and listen passively. It’s interactive and engaging—you can ask questions at any time. 📅 Reserve your spot now! Seats are limited, so don’t wait too long to sign up. Location: 1266 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215 Hosted by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation

AI is changing how art is made. But when does it stop being your work and start being the machine’s? This month we're going to be doing a panel with with digital image, music, and written word artists, talking about at what point, while using AI in the creation process, does the work become not the artist creation? We encourage audience participation during this event that will be moderated by Chris Slee. Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus. Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.transformlabs.com/services) Sign up also accessible via [Transform Labs Luma](https://luma.com/55umjqta)

**How to take control of your subconscious and harness its power!** Join us for an eye-opening lecture where the speaker will break down complex ideas in a clear and practical way. You’ll gain insights into: ✅ The true definition of the subconscious ✅ How it generates unwanted emotions ✅ Its real purpose and function ✅ What determines the pressure it exerts on you And the most important topic: **How do you take control of your subconscious!** But this isn’t just another lecture where you sit and listen passively. It’s interactive and engaging—you can ask questions at any time. 📅 Reserve your spot now! Seats are limited, so don’t wait too long to sign up. Location: 1266 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215 Hosted by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia