Philosophy
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Philosophy Events Today
Join in-person Philosophy events happening right now
SOLD OUT • ST PANCRAS • S2E9: LOSS | Thought Experiments in Pubs
Join us for open minded discussions and the opportunity to learn from other people's perspectives and life experiences.
This episode will explore the topic of 'LOSS' by way of three original thought experiments.
This episode's thought experiments are written by TEiP regular, Camden (of [Veins of London](https://www.meetup.com/veinsoflondon/)), and will be posted in the comments below on the day of the event.
We'll meet at the beautiful Betjeman Arms in St Pancras Station.
Spaces are limited and tickets sell out fast, so get your ticket early if you want to be there!
**THOUGHT EXPERIMENTS** \- posted in the comments below on the day of the event
**[SUBSTACK](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/)** \- read more about this community and other related stuff
**[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/thoughtexperimentsinpubs/)** \- see what we look like \(including The People of TEiP project\)
**[WHATSAPP GROUP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DapwAXpnOHO5DRYThobpe4)** \- stay in the loop
**The idea:** A chance to meet and talk meaningfully about thought provoking topics.
**How we'll do it** (timings approximate):
* 7:00pm - Arrive at The Betjeman Arms. You can access the pub either from the street (entrance to the right of The St Pancras Hotel entrance) or via St Pancras Station (entrance from the upstairs train platforms). We'll be in the private dining room - ask at the bar if you can't find us.
* Organise ourselves into small groups (3-4 people per group)
* Have a look at the **thought experiments** (announced on the day of the event)
* 7:15 - First rotation begins - Talk about the first thought experiment, but feel free to veer off topic.
* 7:35 - Optional reshuffle: swap groups, move on to the second thought experiment.
* 8:00 - Optional reshuffle: swap groups, move on to the third thought experiment.
* 8:25pm - Wrap up - hear about upcoming events, feedback/requests for future meetups.
* 8:30 Meetup ‘ends’. But feel free to carry on conversations. We have the room until 10pm and usually a lot of us stay until then :-)
**Notes on the general atmosphere**:
* The vibe is to let conversation flow rather than stick strictly to one topic.
* While we'd like to talk about 'meaningful things', we also see the value in lighter topics, so don't worry about not being 'deep' enough!
* Feel free to suggest ideas for future Thought Experiments in Pubs meetup groups, both in terms of structure and topics to discuss.
**Where we'll meet**:
This group will be at The Betjeman Arms. The nearest Tube station is King's Cross St. Pancras. You can access the pub either from the street (entrance to the right of The St Pancras Hotel entrance) or via St Pancras Station (entrance from the upstairs train platforms). We'll be in the private dining room - ask at the bar if you can't find us.
**Who should come**:
Everyone! We believe that the more perspectives, the richer the conversation. This group is not about being experts in Philosophy, it is about *doing* philosophy. That is, bringing our various life experiences and lenses on the world to group discussions about the human experience, the nature of reality... etc....
I'm so looking forward to meeting & talking with you in this beautiful location :-)
If you would like to further support these meetups, please [subscribe to the newsletter](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/) and [follow us on instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thoughtexperimentsinpubs) :-)
Thank you!
Acting, Performance, Roles and Ritual
We often think of acting as something that happens on stage — but what if performance is part of everyday life? What if, in some sense, we are always performing? This session explores the idea that while acting may be occasional, performance could be constant, raising questions about the roles we play, how they shape our sense of self, and the rituals that may help us process emotion and experience a sense of catharsis.
From the roles we take on at work and in relationships, to the rituals that shape moments like weddings, funerals, and public events, much of what we do follows shared scripts and expectations. But does this mean we are simply playing roles — or is there something more to the self beneath them?
How aware are we of the roles we inhabit — and what difference, if any, is there between acting and everyday performance?
The idea for this evening’s event comes from the following discussion. You might like to listen to it in advance — it may give you a bit more to reflect on going into the conversation:
[https://iai.tv/video/the-philosophy-of-performance-michelle-terry](https://iai.tv/video/the-philosophy-of-performance-michelle-terry)
The session will begin with a short introduction (around 10 minutes) to set out the key ideas. After that, the emphasis is on discussion and participation. The aim is to create a space where ideas can be explored together, with time for questions, reflection, and open conversation.
No prior knowledge is needed — just curiosity and a willingness to think together.
**Where:** Downstairs room, Square Pig, Holborn (private room)
**NB:** The event begins at 7pm, doors open at 6:50pm. Event ends at 9pm
**Format:** 10-minute intro talk → vote on questions → small-group discussions → share insights with the whole room
**Discounts:** If cost is a barrier, we want to make the session as accessible as possible. If you are a student, unemployed, or on a low income, please feel free to send me a direct message to get a reduced-price place.
**Refunds:** If you are unable to attend and would like a refund, please send me a direct message at least 48 hours before the event. Unfortunately, I’m not able to offer refunds for cancellations made after this point, as it becomes difficult to reallocate places at short notice.
Kant’s Cave: How common is 'Common Sense'? - Anja Steinbauer
ATTEND IN PERSON OR ON ZOOM
**NB This event will now take place at the Café of [St. Hilda's East Community Centre](https://www.google.com/maps/@51.5244243,-0.0746385,17z?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MDkwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), 18 Club Row, London E2 7EY. The nearest station (just a few minutes walk) is [Shoreditch High Street](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Shoreditch+High+Street/@51.5237626,-0.0741518,16.75z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x48761cb7237e45d3:0x832e68d6f5c3b9b0!8m2!3d51.5232573!4d-0.0754661!16s%2Fg%2F1hhvv83t7?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MDkwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (Overground).**
We can go back to the earliest beginnings of the Western philosophical tradition to find references to what we might call “common sense”. Heraclitus states that “thinking is common to all”. However, this seemingly optimistic statement is soon qualified by his lament that people don’t understand, and therefore don’t recognise the importance of, his own philosophical message: they clearly don’t think well enough. The lights are on but no-one’s home, he seems to say. But is he really disappointed at the poor quality of common thought or because others don’t think like him? So, yes, we all think, but what is it that is really shared? What is common about common sense, if it exists at all? In my talk at Kant’s Cave I would like to explore with you the possible meanings, uses and value of the idea of “common sense”. We will discuss thinkers from Kant and Voltaire to Gadamer and Hannah Arendt.
Event video teaser [here](https://youtube.com/shorts/edZEjrKHKnQ?si=3K0G7Mj1rNoHeVjE)
**Dr. Anja Steinbauer** is a London-based philosopher, Sinologist, and the President of [Philosophy For All (PFA)](https://pfalondon.org/). Passionate about making philosophy vibrant and accessible to everyone, she has dedicated her career to public philosophy, pioneering engaging formats that bridge academic thought with everyday life. She is an editor for *[Philosophy Now](https://philosophynow.org/about)*[ magazine](https://philosophynow.org/about) and lecturer at the [London School of Philosophy](https://uk.linkedin.com/in/anja-steinbauer-27966344).
This event is sponsored by the Royal institute of Philosophy.
For the full programme of events pls see [pfalondon.org](http://pfalondon.org)
Successfully Parenting Children
Description: We invite you to join us for an inspiring and insightful lecture that aims to equip parents with the knowledge, tools, and strategies necessary to navigate the challenging yet rewarding journey of raising children. In this empowering session, we will explore the essential elements of successful parenting and delve into the profound impact it can have on shaping the lives of our children.
Parenting is a multifaceted endeavor that requires patience, understanding, and adaptability. This lecture will provide a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices that contribute to raising happy, healthy, and well-adjusted children. By drawing upon the latest research, psychological insights, and practical experiences, we will explore key aspects of successful parenting.
During this enlightening session, we will cover the following topics:
1. Building Strong Foundations: We will discuss the importance of creating a nurturing and supportive environment for children to flourish. This includes establishing routines, setting boundaries, and cultivating a sense of security and trust.
2. Effective Communication: Understanding the significance of open and effective communication between parents and children is crucial. We will explore strategies for fostering healthy dialogue, active listening, and empathy, enabling parents to build strong relationships based on mutual respect.
3. Encouraging Emotional Intelligence: Emotions play a fundamental role in a child's development. We will discuss ways to help children recognize and manage their emotions, fostering emotional intelligence and resilience.
4. Discipline with Love: Navigating discipline can be challenging for parents. We will explore positive discipline techniques that promote cooperation, self-discipline, and a healthy sense of responsibility, ensuring a harmonious and respectful family dynamic.
5. Promoting Independence and Autonomy: Allowing children to develop their independence and autonomy is essential for their growth. We will explore strategies to foster self-esteem, encourage age-appropriate decision-making, and support the development of healthy independence.
6. Nurturing a Growth Mindset: Cultivating a growth mindset in children is vital for their personal and academic development. We will discuss ways to foster a love of learning, resilience in the face of challenges, and a sense of curiosity and exploration.
7. Balancing Self-Care: Parenting is an all-encompassing role that requires self-care to maintain physical, emotional, and mental well-being. We will explore strategies for self-care and stress management, ensuring that parents can provide the best support for their children while also prioritizing their own needs.
By attending this lecture, parents will gain valuable insights, practical tips, and a deeper understanding of the principles that underpin successful parenting. Armed with this knowledge, they will feel empowered to create nurturing and loving environments that foster their children's growth, resilience, and overall well-being.
Note: This lecture is designed for parents of children of all ages, from infants to adolescents. Whether you are a new parent seeking guidance or an experienced parent looking to enhance your parenting skills, this lecture will provide valuable information and support. Join us to embark on a transformative journey as we explore the joys and challenges of successful parenting together.
London Gay, Bi, Trans Men's Mindfulness Meditation Group
*Since 2009, 15‑40 men meet in a warm, inclusive space near Leicester Square to meditate, relax and make friends. No experience needed – we guide you step‑by‑step, and seasoned meditators are welcome.*
**Why gay‑men choose this space**
* **Safety & belonging** – a private, affirming environment where you can be yourself without judgment, the core need identified by LGBTQ‑focused mindfulness programmes .
* **Minority‑stress relief** – mindfulness reduces the chronic stress that many gay, bi and queer men face, boosting self‑acceptance and emotional regulation .
* **Community‑driven growth** – connecting with others who share similar experiences lowers isolation and fosters resilience.
[Click here to book](https://bookwhen.com/evolvingminds) or simply turn up and pay at the door.
**What you’ll get**
* **Breath‑work & gratitude tools** – instant stress relief and mood lift.
* **Guided meditations** that develop emotional intelligence, self‑compassion and resilience.
* **Trauma‑informed compassion practices** – self‑compassion exercises and body‑scan work to ease reactivity and promote safety.
* **A supportive peer community** – improve social skills and build lasting friendships.
**Evening flow (7 pm‑9 pm)**
1️⃣ Grounding movement & body‑scan
2️⃣ First guided meditation (focused attention or self‑compassion)
3️⃣ 20‑minute tea break for informal chat
4️⃣ The second meditation changes week by week and follows a rotating weekly theme (loving‑kindness, self‑compassion, gratitude, etc.)
**Practical details**
* **When:** Every Monday (doors 6:45 pm, meditation 7 pm) – we run the session even if there are no Meetup RSVP. No booking required - just turn up.
* **Where:** 52 Saint Martins Lane, WC2N 4EA (near Leicester Square/Charing Cross)
* **Seating:** Chairs provided; mats & cushions available for floor sitting.
**Teacher**
Nick – 30 years of practice and 7 years as a Buddhist monk, teaching from a non‑reactive, freedom‑focused perspective.
**Fees**
* **First‑timer:** £10
* **Regular:** £16 per session
* **Concessions:** £13 (students, low‑income, refugees, disability support – ask on arrival)
**Join us**
[Click here to book](https://bookwhen.com/evolvingminds) or simply turn up and pay at the door.
“The connection here is transformative – stress‑free, supportive, genuinely inclusive.” – member testimonial.
Sing with 25+ people at one of London’s most sociable choirs!
Join one of London’s most sociable choirs! Primrose Hill Choir, Mondays from 13.4, 7.30-9.30pm, NW1 8TN. Theme From Darkness to Light. Songs include The Sound of Silence, Some Enchanted Evening & Hard Day’s Night. All ages & abilities from across London. Solo opportunities. BOOK A PLACE: maestromattheww@yahoo.co.uk, subject heading PHC. SEE primrosehillchoirs.com
Philosophy Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Let's Discuss... Life without religion
For most of human history, religion wasn't a lifestyle choice, it was part of life. It told you who you were, why you suffered, what death means, and how to live. Then science explained the sky, the earth, and everything around us, and we told ourselves we'd evolved past all that. But the meaninglessness of life was never explained. Millions of people are still medicated, addicted, and quietly lost, in the most comfortable civilisation that has ever existed. Maybe we just stopped feeding something that was never going to stop being hungry.
Can a life be meaningful without believing in anything bigger than yourself?
Can science tell you how to live?
Are the people replacing religion with politics, wellness culture, or ideology any less religious or just less honest about it?
Is dismissing religion a sign of progress, or are we just arrogant enough to think we don't need what every civilisation before us had?
Here is a video related to this topic: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DffqK6j-y1U](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DffqK6j-y1U)
*Please do your own research and share resources related to this topic in the comments below.*
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**💛 Support The Examined Life**
Enjoying the discussions? Please consider donating, it keeps us running.
👉 Donate here: [https://examinedlife.uk/donation/](https://examinedlife.uk/donation/)
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**Join our Telegram group chat**
Stay connected between sessions: [https://t.me/+o9T9DL5u6AcwMmRk](https://t.me/+o9T9DL5u6AcwMmRk)
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**About the session**
The Examined Life "Let's Discuss…" session is an open, welcoming discussion, no prior reading or expertise required.
Format:
* **13:15** Free-flowing group discussion on the topic
* **14:00 (ish)** We split into smaller groups for deeper conversation on what interests you most
* **16:00** Official end of the meetup. Most attendees stay on and keep chatting until around 18:00
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**Please RSVP accurately**
Please update your RSVP if plans change, it helps us plan and frees up spots for others.
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**Artwork:** Interior of a Gothic Cathedral 1612 by Paul Vredeman de Vries
London Philosophy Cafe
We have reserved the Chicester Room in ther pub for us . Please ask for Philosophy cafe at the door and they will direct you .
We like to break into small groups and have a healthy discussion about life , philosophy and ideas .
We break out into groups of 6 to discuss three questions over 45min to 1 hour; and then spend another 45min feeding back into the main group. The three topics are chosen on the day by vote, and largely derived from suggestions on the day.
We welcome new ideas , so please come up with suggestions or topics that you want to talk about .
There is no specific topic list and you do not need to read or know anything particular about philosophy .
The official time is 7-9: 30 pm , but we usually go into a pub mode after 9:30 pm and continue our discusssions.
Picnic Talk ‘Renewal’ | Veins Of London Collab Primrose Hill
***This is a group for deep conversation, making friends, discussing philosophy, (good) music, art, poetry, experiences, politics, etc and building a strong community in London.***
**We are going to meet at the top of Primrose Hill for a picnic, (bring something if you can, no worries if you can’t) and we are going to discuss relax, have a chat and discuss courage.**
***This will be a collaboration with:***
[Philosophy in the Park](https://www.meetup.com/london-philosophy-collective/)
**15:00 - 18:00 is the club time, but people can and will stay longer for more chatting, and to talk about other groups for you to join.**
**For updates, conversation and our whereabouts on the day check the** [WhatsApp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/LyRmJUaqN5zLJ2x21nIo04) **<—-click here**
The Science of Can and Can't - Chapter 3
This week we'll discuss the third chapter of [The Science of Can and Can't](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Science-Can-Cant-Physicists-Counterfactuals/dp/0241310946/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1YFBGHPLNB4NO&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.YoSj1NdZXBPKK81RKKOjBA.ga2ZS1YEzf0cR13hyK4BpEHaXtvmjSfEhGZemtNXrLU&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+science+of+can+and+can%27t&qid=1779107463&sprefix=the+science+of+can+and+can%27t%2Caps%2C136&sr=8-1), by Chiara Marletto, co-developer of Constructor Theory alongside David Deutsch.
A big theme of the book is counterfactuals - statements about what *could* happen, not just what *does* happen. Chiara argues that science has historically struggled to incorporate these rigorously, even though they’re central to explanations, computation, biology, knowledge, and agency.
If this is your first time attending we meet in the William Morris pub in Hammersmith - look for people with copies of the book.
Please read the chapter before attending.
☕ PHISC Coffee & Conversations – Our First Ever Meetup!
☕ PHISC Coffee & Conversations – Our First Ever Meetup!
Join us for the inaugural event of PHI Social Club (PHISC) as we bring together a welcoming group of people for an afternoon of coffee, conversation, and connection.
Whether you're looking to make new friends, expand your social circle, share ideas, discover new opportunities, or simply enjoy good company, we'd love to meet you.
This is a relaxed and informal gathering with no speeches, no pressure, and no expectations—just genuine conversation in a friendly environment.
As our very first event, you'll also have the opportunity to help shape the future of PHISC by sharing your ideas for future activities, social gatherings, cultural events, wellness meetups, networking opportunities, and community projects.
Everyone is welcome, whether you're attending alone or bringing a friend.
📍 Costa Coffee, The Brewery, Romford
📅 Saturday, 6 June 2026
🕔 5:00 PM
Come along, grab your favourite drink, and be part of the beginning of something special.
We look forward to meeting you.
— PHI Social Club
Building community through meaningful connections.
Practical Philosophy Club Meetup - London 🇬🇧
**🏛️ WHAT'S PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY ABOUT?**
Practical Philosophy is a weekly meet-up that brings critical thinkers together for an opportunity to dive deep on a topic, practice communicating, and building a community. All with no ‘official’ philosophy knowledge required! 😎
Practical Philosophy is based on the idea that philosophy should be accessible to all, and not something reserved only for academics. Each week we choose a topic, and the goal is to use the conversation to develop our critical thinking and communication as we explore that topic.
The goal is to help develop our Critical Thinking, Communication, and Community 🙌
📓 **HOW DOES IT WORK?**
Each week, we pick one topic and discuss it. The topic for the week is shared, generally in the [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS), along with jump-off points to get the conversation going.
When groups get bigger than 7-8 people, it’s important that we break into smaller groups. This way we are able to maintain a conversational flow as opposed to having our meetups feel like a discourse or lecture.
**General Meeting Agenda**
Each Practical Philosophy meet-up follows this general timeline:
* 14:00-14.15 - People arrive and chat, get to know each other before the ‘official' start.
* 14:15-14:20 - Meeting introduction, explanation of Practical Philosophy and the topic for the week, read the guidelines and the overview so attendees know what to expect in terms of timelines.
* 14:20-15:20 - 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.
* 15:20-15:30 - We do a group conclusion of the things we discussed, and then we typically take a photo and go on our way :) If you don't want to be in the group photo, there's no pressure, it's just a way to close out the meeting. We occasionally have an unofficial social so the different groups can mingle afterwards too!
**🧧PRICING?**
Practical Philosophy Club is FREE to attend, and we operate on donations.
If you'd like to donate to support our running costs, that helps keep our group self-sustaining. Donations are 100% voluntary, but your contribution is appreciated! QR codes to donate will be present.
Tea’s and coffees and are paid by the individual should they wish to have them.
**💛 WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY**
🗣 “I feel like Philosophy Club helps someone build their own belief system through a series of perspectives while not promoting what’s right and wrong” - Ekam
🗣 “I got hooked from day 1 (the topic was authority) and felt it was the right place for me. I feel it is a place where people can go to learn and discuss new perspectives and increase critical thinking and community by interacting with people who might challenge your point of views but at the same time encourage you to have openness and mind flexibility.” - Daniel
**🤓 FAQ**
* What will we talk about? What's the topic?
The topic for the week is shared every week in the Whatsapp group before the session. We try to add the topic to the comment section on this event page as well but if you don’t see it, the topic and the jump-off points will be in our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS).
* Do I need to study or read anything to attend?
No preparation is necessary. This isn’t a study of other thinkers. We want to know what YOU think about the topic, not what an old philosopher thought. If you have a perspective from a religion or a school of thought to share, throw it on the table and we’ll discuss it, but it's not required.
* Is there a specific philosophy that Practical Philosophy is focused on?
The goal of our meet-ups is to not have dogmatic discussions, and flex our critical thinking muscles. Because of this, we want to hear from every realm of thought, and don't study a particular school.
* Is it mostly men that attend?
Surprisingly, no! Although philosophy is seen as a Candelabra affair in a dark room with a bunch of guys, our Practical Philosophy meetups are generally 50/50 between genders, and we don’t meet in any dark rooms.
* Can I come alone?
Of course you can, we encourage it :)
* Can I be late?
Please don't be! We do have a 15 minute grace period where we allow people to funnel in while we hang out, but after that if you arrive too late, it disrupts the flow of the conversation.
* Where do you meet?
The location is posted in Meetup and our [Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS) group for this location. It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you join the Whatsapp group! If you want to know what other cities have a Practical Philosophy Club, you can see our chapters on our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club/practical-philosophy-locations/).
🤝**POLICY**
To respect our members privacy, we ask that no one privately message a member without first getting explicit consent. (This looks like speaking in person and being asked to message privately.) Contacting or texting other participants without prior consent is not permitted and may result in removal from the group. Practical Philosophy reserves the right to enforce this policy at its discretion to maintain a safe and respectful environment.
**PRACTICAL PHILOSOPHY - Making Philosophy Available To All.** ✨
Practical Philosophy hosts weekly, in-person meetups in 25+ countries, including Canada, Spain, Japan, Mexico and many more! 🗺️
\*\*\*
Join our [Whatsapp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/B6fqS6HGujq8gb3a0kl5pS) 👈
Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/practicalphilosophyclub/?hl=en) 👈
Our [website](https://www.practicalphilosophy.club) 👈
The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel
In this event, we will discuss about a science or philosophy book chosen by London Science and Philosophy Book Club. The attendees will be divided into groups and each of them will focus on a chapter in the book. This month we will discuss about a fascinating book called The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel. If you haven't read the book, it's no problem. I will bring you up to speed with the discussion materials.
We will meet in a nice lounge area at 6 p.m for introductions. Please come on time so you will not miss out on valuable discussion midway. If you end up in the waitlist, feel free to show up.
Book Description:
Doing well with money isn't necessarily about what you know. It's about how you behave. And behavior is hard to teach, even to really smart people.
Money – investing, personal finance, and business decisions – is typically taught as a math-based field, where data and formulas tell us exactly what to do. But in the real world people don't make financial decisions on a spreadsheet. They make them at the dinner table, or in a meeting room, where personal history, your own unique view of the world, ego, pride, marketing, and odd incentives are scrambled together.
In The Psychology of Money, award-winning author Morgan Housel shares 19 short stories exploring the strange ways people think about money and teaches you how to make better sense of one of life's most important topics.
Agenda:
6 p.m to 6:30 p.m: Introduction and Socializing
6:30 p.m to 9:30 p.m: Book Discussion
9:30 p.m to late night: Drinks, Dinner or Feel free to go home
Philosophy Events Near You
Connect with your local Philosophy community
Drunken Philosophy: Are you really who you think you are? What is the "self"?
I have been studying the question of "self" online with Prof. Ellie Anderson and so I thought a prompt on the "self" might be interesting. Full confession: I had Claude create this prompt and I like it, so here goes:
Imagine a thought experiment that merges two classic puzzles:
> You undergo a procedure, performed neuron by neuron, in which every biological component of your brain is replaced with a functionally identical synthetic substitute. At each step, your behavior, memories, and personality remain unchanged. When the last neuron is swapped, is the consciousness experiencing the world still you? And — more pressingly — was there ever a continuous "you" to begin with?
### Questions to Wrestle With
* If consciousness is purely physical, does the *gradual* nature of the replacement matter, or is it equivalent to being destroyed and rebuilt?
* Could there be a "self" without continuity of experience — even moment to moment, while you sleep?
On a more practical level, consider the simpler case first: **hemispherectomy** patients — people who have had an entire cerebral hemisphere surgically removed — often retain a strong sense of personal identity and continuity. This suggests "you" are not rigidly tied to specific physical material. But does that vindicate the synthetic neuron case, or merely show that identity is more *flexible* than we thought — not that it can survive *complete* substrate replacement?
I used Claude so I could get this out today and let everyone have some time to consider it. Hope to see you at the Oracle. Sorry about the location change two weeks ago. That's what I get for trusting local weather predictions!
Columbus Women's Investing & Personal Finance Meeting
**Welcome to the Women’s Columbus Bogleheads® Sub-Group**
This sub-group is for **women who want to learn and discuss finances in a safe, supportive space**. For those interested in moving towards financial independence and retirement by learning investment basics, choosing your 401(k) investments, minimizing taxes, and more. We’re a local chapter of **Bogleheads®**, following a long-term, practical investment philosophy:
[Investment Philosophy](https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy):
https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy
[Bogleheads Forum](https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php):
https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php
No question is too small, and no experience is too simple. Share, ask, and learn — at your own pace, without judgment, in a group of like-minded women. Let’s build confidence and knowledge **together**!
Libera Animae - Freeing the Soul
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.
Losing Weight in Columbus - Saturday morning Metro Park at Scioto Audubon Park
Join the weight loss in Columbus group at the Scioto Audubon Park for an in person meeting. We'll meet to chat casually, talk about goals and enjoy one of Columbus's wonderful parks.
We'll meet at one of the outdoor shelters, which is covered in case of rain, is close to some walking trails, and there's also a climbing gym that people can try out (my favorite past time) if people are interested.
Let's meet and see where we can take things!
Pop-up Book Club 4: Going to Meet The Man, stories by James Baldwin
Let’s meet and share discussion of the James Baldwin short story collection, Going to Meet The Man.
Vision Loss Support Group: Guided Nature Walk
NOTICE CHANGE OF LOCATION.
WE WILL BE MEETING AT THE SHARON WOODS METRO PARK - THIS MONTH ONLY.
Sharon Woods Metro Park, 6911 Cleveland Ave, Westerville, OH 43081
Enter the park from Cleveland Avenue and stay on the main park drive until it dead-ends into a turn around parking lot. We will meet at the Schrock Lake Shelter just off this parking area to the right.
We will be taking a Guided Walk with access very near the shelter, on the Edward S Thomas trail, an ADA flat, hard-packed gravel surface trail. This walk will be led by Carrie Keller, Outdoor Naturalist at the park, and Megan Richley, Inclusion Coordinator for the Metro Parks.
Wear sneakers or other shoes covering the entire foot.
Sandals or flip-flops are ill advised.
Sighted guides will be available.
Target audience for this group is persons who are visually impaired, especially those who have experienced recent loss, however, all are welcome, including family members and supports. Light refreshments will be served.
There will not be a Conference Call option for this meeting.
COUNT Discussion Meeting: Topic: Current Events
We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another.
Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us.
Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.






























