Philosophy of Science

Join PSW Science® on April 24 at 8 PM as we welcome Harris Lewin, Research Professor with Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory & Arizona State University. During the question and answer period, in-person attendees and live stream viewers may ask the speaker questions, and in-person attendees may also engage with the speaker during the post-lecture reception. Refreshments are served. For more information on this meeting, please visit: https://pswscience.org/meeting/2535 The meeting will be held in the John Wesley Powell Auditorium, adjacent to the Cosmos Club. The Powell Auditorium is located at 2170 Florida Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20008. Use of the Cosmos Club is restricted to the Powell Auditorium, the entryway to the auditorium, and the restrooms immediately outside the auditorium. Please note there is no onsite parking available. PSW Science, founded in 1871, is one of the oldest scientific societies in Washington D.C. Now, over 150 years later, we celebrate the Society's rich history and contributions to scientific discovery and cross-disciplinary collaboration. For information on how to become a member of PSW Science and membership benefits, please visit https://pswscience.org/join/

Ok, we’re stepping slightly outside the philosophy for this one—but it’s worth it. Join us for the Hungarian Heritage Festival: great food (goulash, pastries, more), live music, folk dancing, and a relaxed, authentic vibe you don’t get at the usual crowded events. [Hungarian Heritage Festival, April 25, 2026](https://kossuthfoundation.org/events/hungarian-heritage-festival-april-25-2026/) It’s a bit beyond our usual range—but sometimes the best stuff is just outside the bubble. Come out, explore, and make a day of it.

When it comes to cryptocurrency, are you skeptical because you know too little? Or because you know too much? Either way... EVERYONE IS LYING TO YOU FOR MONEY is a documentary that asks a sobering question: Who benefits from the chaos, and who is left to clean up the damage? Join NCAS members at the AFI Silver in downtown Silver Spring, Maryland, for special screenings on April 20 at 6:45 and April 25 at 6:15, both with Q&A with filmmaker Ben McKenzie. Tickets are available in advance: [https://silver.afi.com/movies/detail/0100005537/](https://silver.afi.com/movies/detail/0100005537/) Go to [ncas.org](https://ncas.org/) for more information and to sign up for a pre-show dinner get-together. This is a paid event.

Have you seen the movie “**The AI Doc**: Or How I Became an Apocaloptimist” and are left with questions and thoughts that you're longing to express? A group of friends went to see this documentary and couldn’t stop thinking or discussing about it. Now we want to hear from more people who have seen the movie! Come share your thoughts about AI and the world. **NOT from a technological perspective but where our future lies ahead**. We will start from the key **questions** asked in the documentary, including but not limited to: \- Is it the worst or best time to be born now\, at the age of AI? \- Are you an apocaloptimist or pessimist? \- Did anything in the film challenge your previous beliefs about AI? \- Do you think AI will reduce or worsen inequality? \- What can we\, as the general public\, do to ensure AI safety? 💡Disclaimer: We aim to create a thoughtful, open, and respectful space for sharing ideas. You may encounter perspectives that differ from your own—and that’s part of what makes these conversations meaningful. Sometimes, it’s through contrasting viewpoints that the most interesting insights emerge. We encourage everyone to listen with curiosity and engage with respect. 📍We'll be meeting at Conference Room 2 at West End Library near Foggy Bottom.

Venez apprécier l'ambiance chaleureuse d'une conversation en français autour d'un verre de vin et d'apéritifs. C'est ouvert à tous quelque soit votre niveau, que vous soyez intermédiaire/avancé ou bien que le Français soit votre langue maternelle. ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU WILL BE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.*** We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested. We have the discretion to decide entry. It is irresistible, to enjoy French convo with a glass of wine, appetizers and drinks. The Event is open to all levels of French language, from intermediate to native fluency. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speakers. It is not as such to learn a language. Beginners, if you want to learn a language, reach out to us ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)). We have a school and will arrange you a class. ***AFTER THE HAPPY HOUR, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING*** [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Vv1wxZAR1k](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Vv1wxZAR1k)

**\*\*\* NOTE change of library space - We're meeting at Dolley Madison Library in McLean VA for this meeting \*\*\*** *theme:* **Lacan 3 Orders, freeing desire & the Id** **\| DIY Classical Psychoanalysis** *Making psychoanalysis accessible to the masses!* Psychoanalysis "unlocks the past, informs the present, and expands the future. video clips: **Psychoanalytic theory in 3 minutes** [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucB1b6f750k](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucB1b6f750k) **Psychoanalysis A Curiosity about the mind 6min** [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcmVjQBF4MQ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcmVjQBF4MQ) Psychoanalysis = a theory and practice treating symptoms and personality as **disguised compromises** around unconscious conflicts, using a structured relationship (transference) to make those patterns visible so you can **repeat less blindly** and **choose a bit more freely**. "Until you ***make the unconscious conscious***, it will direct your life and you will call it fate." Carl Jung \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Interpersonal Process Group** **Psychodynamic shared exploration, learning and growth** Interpersonal process groups focus on the interactions and dynamics between group members to facilitate personal growth and learning. These groups provide a courageous space for individuals to explore their interpersonal patterns, receive feedback, and develop more effective social skills. **The core principle is that the group itself becomes a microcosm of a member's real-life relationships, allowing for insights and behavioral changes.** Key aspects of interpersonal process groups: * **Exploration of Interpersonal Dynamics:** Members examine their communication styles, relationship patterns, and how they relate to others within the group. * **Feedback and Self-Awareness:** The group provides a platform for members to receive feedback on their behaviors and develop greater self-awareness. * **Development of Social Skills:** Members practice new ways of relating, communicating, and collaborating within the group, leading to improved social skills. * **Microcosm of Relationships:** The group mirrors real-life relationships, allowing members to observe and analyze their patterns in a safe and controlled setting. * **Personal Growth and Well-being:** Through these processes, individuals can experience significant personal growth and enhanced well-being. Benefits of participating in an interpersonal process group: * **Increased self-awareness:** Understanding one's own behavior and its impact on others. * **Improved communication skills:** Learning to communicate more effectively and assertively. * **Stronger relationships:** Developing more fulfilling and meaningful relationships. * **Reduced anxiety and stress:** Finding support and coping mechanisms for social challenges. * **Enhanced empathy and understanding:** Learning to see situations from others' perspectives. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Join us for an exciting meeting of personal growth as we delve deep into the realm of self-development. This meetup is designed for personal growth addicts like you who are eager to unlock their hidden potential and take charge of their lives. Don't miss this chance to meet fellow personal growth enthusiasts, share experiences, and learn from one another. Step into a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and transformation. Come prepared to engage in provocative conversations, share your opinions, wrestle with challenging ideas, and leave with a renewed sense of deeper meaning and learning. **Tentative Agenda:** 1:00pm Social, Setup & Introductions, guidelines, terminology; 1:15pm Interactive open dialogue conversation & sharing; 2:45pm debrief, summary, debrief 3:00pm finish Light snacks, candy & water provided. Dolley Madison Library is in McLean, VA near I-495 beltway exits 44, 45 or 46. **Conference Room** is 1st door on immediate left after entering\.Repressions vs Narrative Integration \| Classical Psychoanalysis DIY

“Education does not change the world. Education changes people. People change the world.” (Paulo Freire) Featuring newly unearthed archival footage of Brazil in the 1960s, this fascinating excursion into the early work of Paulo Freire shows how he implemented the ideas of democratic, non-hierarchical education that made him the internationally revered education philosopher he became. “Learn to read in 40 hours” was not a slogan but a promise Freire and his teaching corps made to illiterate farmworkers in the Brazilian countryside, and that they made to themselves. Simply put, instead of rote memorization, educators used familiar surroundings and objects to construct meaningful vocabulary. Moving interviews with some of the hundreds whose lives were forever changed by learning to read, sign their name, and thus vote personalize the link between education and democracy. Both were upended by the 1964 military coup that exiled Freire for 16 years and gave him to the rest of the world.—Judy Bloch Ticket Info/Price: Single Admission: $15 ($10 for ages under 25). Director’s Pass: $110 (10 tickets)

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Facing Fascism,”** on the history, hallmarks, and lingering power of a deadly ideology, with Kevin Matthews, professor of history at George Mason University and teacher of courses on early 20th century European history. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-facing-fascism](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-facing-fascism) .] Few political movements have aroused as much anger and fear as fascism. But despite its legacy of violence, persecution, and genocide, fascism continues to hold a strange attraction to many. Join historian Kevin Matthews for an in-depth look at an ideology that brought death to millions in Europe and yet continues to deeply influence our politics and culture. Dr. Matthews will start by discussing how the ideology of fascism arose in the aftermath of the First World War and took hold in Europe in the 1920s and 1930s. To give you a better grasp of what exactly fascism is, he’ll discuss its central themes: Anti-democracy. Extreme nationalism and anti-communism. The use, or threat, of violence in politics. Rejection of established values such as scientific objectivity. Denial of equal rights, especially for women. The assertion of power where a power vacuum exists. We’ll examine the rise and fall of two notorious fascist dictators, Adolf Hitler of Germany and Benito Mussolini of Italy. For a time it was believed that fascism died in the ashes of the Second World War, but it clearly didn’t, and we’ll look at where it remains a political force today. Finally, we’ll examine how fascism continues to permeate popular culture in ways that trivialize it, popping up in music from punk to Madonna, with its latent eroticism making it the subject of films such as *The Night Porter.* Having been called “the most self-consciously visual of all political forms,” it enlisted fashion leaders to produce uniforms and continues today to inspire a look known as “Nazi chic.” Dr. Matthews previously has given fantastic Profs and Pints talks on Ireland’s fight for independence and on World War II German submarine attacks off our coasts. He’s sure to leave you with a much better understanding of fascism and a recognition that is has hardly gone away. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler during Mussolini's 1940 visit in Munich (photographer unknown / public domain).

Robots, rockets, chemistry, nature, environmental science, medicine, astronomy, math games, technology & so much more! ADMISSION & PARKING ARE FREE The Rockville Science Center invites you to bring the whole family for an afternoon of fun and discovery at the 34th annual Rockville Science Day. Our group, MoCo Makers, will be one of 120 exhibitors, and there are over 4000 visitors. Do you have a maker exhibit to show off? Share some table space with us - contact matt@mocomakers.com This year we will show off our scanning tunneling microscope, and some electronics projects - among other things!! Each year this free event features a variety of science and technology-related exhibits, activities, games and demos such as rocket-building (and launching), telescope viewing, all kinds of robots, backyard wildlife, ship models, microscopes, snakes, stream science, coding challenges, math puzzles, chemistry in action (flames, explosions & reactions), electric vehicle demos, quadcopters, archaeology mini-digs, 3D printing, brain games, and much more! Food will be available for purchase. Rain or shine! Montgomer College (Rockville) 51 Mannakee St, Rockville, MD 20850 More event details: https://www.rockvillesciencecenter.org/rockville-science-day

Is it possible that all the world’s great spiritual and religious traditions originated from the same source, even if we refer to or understand that Source in many different ways? Throughout history, religion and religious differences have often been identified as a point of division amongst the world’s peoples, as a source of strife and contention – and even of bloodshed. But is that the whole story? Is it possible that when you look more closely at what the various religions of the world actually teach, that there is in fact much more overlap and agreement than one might initially be led to believe? Looking beyond the teachings of daily practice, are there deeper truths that unite the world’s religions? How many people actually investigate the seeming differences, or similarities, for themselves? Is it possible that they share a common thread or even originate from one common, divine source? Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the truths that unite us all – as we discuss the spiritual perspective offered by the Bahá’í Teachings on the fundamental oneness of religion. Join us for a lively discussion as we explore the purpose and role of religion in promoting true unity and the progress of us all. *"...for all religion is founded upon the love of humanity."* – Bahá’í Teachings **\*\*\* This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted.**

**☕ Code & Coffee \| Black Code Collective** Pull up, plug in, and enjoy some good company. Join us for a chill Sunday coworking session — bring your laptop and your current project (or no project at all). All skill levels welcome. **Free to attend. Coffee & treats provided. Just show up.** 📅 **Sunday, April 26** 🕙 **10:30 AM – 12:30 PM** 📍 **Falls Church, VA** Please note that we would be located on the 5th floor with the listed address below. 105 W Broad St, Suite #410 · Falls Church, VA 22046

**Real connection with fellow Catholics who are eager to grow in Faith and friendship!** This 3 year--- 45min deep dive into the Catholic faith is a great way to spend your Sunday rest day. When you are ready to dig deeper and live the faith more fully this is an optimal opportunity. Talk yourself into this! You may start whenever and can come as often or as little as you desire. Coffee is served w/ small donation. It is taught by the priest and/or OCIA director at St Louis Parish who are ALL fabulous- faithful educators filled with theologically inspired knowledge. You can ask questions at the end, which I love. It is just a wonderful experience to grow. Afterwards if you wish, you can also find your way over to the Little Way Cafe Coffee shop across the parking lot to stay for more community time or read some of the excellent books that line the shelves throughout. If you are new to the community of Alexandria and want to meet like minded folks or a veteran of it, this is a special and unique opportunity and did I mention it is free? :) Hard to believe! Please join me every Sunday at 945 am.

Let's celebrate Brandon's birthday

Let’s hang out at the Spring Fair at Congressional Cemetery! There will be activities , vendors, & a plant swap. The schedule & more info is [here](https://congressionalcemetery.org/event/spring-fair-2/) . Admission is free & dogs on a leash are welcome at the cemetery. We won’t have a schedule, we’ll just see where the day takes us. We will meet at 11am near the gatehouse; see “you are here” on their map [here](https://congressionalcemetery.org/cemetery-map/) . Check comments day of for how to find me. INHERENT RISK AND LIABILITY: Organizers carefully plan events and check public sources for weather and safety. Common sense dictates that conditions may change and there is inherent risk associated with attendance. Organizers do not accept any liability for accidents/injuries or any other incidences that may occur in connection with the activities published herein or on linked sites.

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?

ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio TBD Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!

**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

You can also join the meeting by Conference Call at (518) 263-8851.

**Improving Office in Franklinton** Physical location: Improving Office 330 Rush Alley Suite #150 Columbus, OH 43215 Schedule: 6:00 p.m.: Socialize, eat, and drink. Improving will be providing pizza and beverages. 6:30 to 8:00 pm. Main meeting and presentation(s). Topic: This month Chris Pazsint will be talking about Agentic Coding. How does one use CLI Based Agents, and Agentic IDEs such as Cursor, Kiro, Antigravity? How to include agentic coding plugins for IDEs you already love such as Visual Studio Code. We meet on the last Monday of each Month. Presentations are given by members and friends of this group. If you would like to do a presentation (small or large) on a python topic, please contact Central OH Python at centralohpython@gmail.com

Jimmy V's Grill & Pub in Grandview Heights. You are responsible for your own meal/drinks. We usually don't have any agenda other than eat, drink and talk. :) If the weather is nice we will be on the back patio, otherwise we are in the cigar room. This group has been meeting every Tuesday evening for over a decade. Many attendees do not RSVP on meetup. Please don't let the small number here discourage you. Anyone/everyone is welcome to come. We'd love to have you join us. COTA bus #5 comes to W. 5th and Wyandotte Rd. And it's a minute walk to the restaurant.