Consciousness

It's easy to get the idea that philosophy is largely an abstract and conceptual endeavor–studying theories that try to explain the universe, morality, or language, and then arguing until we either prove those we disagree with wrong or at least reach a smug sense of clarity. But is that all that philosophy has to offer? Back by popular demand, this month we'll be diving deeper into the reflections of **Pierre Hadot** by beginning his essay **Spiritual Exercises**. In this essay, Hadot argues that **ancient philosophers didn't just theorize about what a good life might be, but practiced it through disciplines of attention, meditation, and self-examination aimed at transforming how one sees and lives in the world**. The essay invites us to ask **whether philosophy might still serve that purpose today**. Hadot specialized in **ancient Greek and Roman philosophy--especially Stoicism, Neoplatonism, and early Christian thought**–as was known for his scholarship on **Marcus Aurelius, Plotinus, and ancient spiritual exercises**. His work has influenced many contemporary philosophers, classicists, and the modern revival of philosophy as a lived practice. As noted in the title, this will be the first of two sessions. We're splitting the text into two parts in order to give everyone a chance to fit the text into their busy lives, as well as to give us space to move more slowly through the text together. \*\*\* Below is a PDF copy of Hadot's book Philosophy as a Way of Life. This session will cover up to p.93 (ending at 3. Learning to Die). If you have trouble accessing it, send the host a message–extra copies are available. Link: [https://ia800203.us.archive.org/7/items/PierreHadotArnoldDavidsonPhilosophyAsAWayOfLifeSpiritualExercisesFromSocratesToFoucault1995/Pierre%20Hadot%2C%20Arnold%20Davidson%20Philosophy%20as%20a%20Way%20of%20Life%20Spiritual%20Exercises%20from%20Socrates%20to%20Foucault%20%201995.pdf](https://ia800203.us.archive.org/7/items/PierreHadotArnoldDavidsonPhilosophyAsAWayOfLifeSpiritualExercisesFromSocratesToFoucault1995/Pierre%20Hadot%2C%20Arnold%20Davidson%20Philosophy%20as%20a%20Way%20of%20Life%20Spiritual%20Exercises%20from%20Socrates%20to%20Foucault%20%201995.pdf) \*\*\* We’ll have tea and light snacks, but please feel free to bring any drink or snack you’d like to share! This event will be hosted in an apartment with a well-trained dog who will be happy to meet you. If anyone has concerns about dogs, let me know so I can be mindful about keeping her from bothering you. The buzzer is Everett and Mainous—we’re on the 5th floor, apartment 16. Meeting structure: We will start with a brief summary of the key ideas Hadot presents then move to open discussion. Please read the text in advance, make highlights, and note any thoughts or questions you find interesting and compelling.

This time, we will meet to discuss the unbelievable story of Gisèle Pelicot after reading her recent memoir, Hymn to Life. We will meet, as always, on the last Sunday of the month, this time at The Globe Café, for an interesting discussion from a feminist perspective.

Are you interested in a lot of things but just a little at a time? Then come to the 5 Minute University! Each talk lasts only 5 minutes followed by 1-2 questions and you'll have the chance to talk to the speakers and other listeners before and after the event - it's a great place to make some friends and find good conversation! Here's the current line up: 1. Tricia Melnik - The Language That Refused to Die 1. Ramona Todor - It's not what it seems: Sex beyond conditioning 1. JT Ostdiek - Philosophy for Children 1. Tom Thumb - Science for Hippies 1. Sherif - How Culture impacts Communication 1. Michael Amico - Change the Lens, Change the Story 1. Paola Pizzo - Who Ate All the Mummies? 1. Leonidas Lundell ' What the Hell Are Proteins Anyway? 1. Tim Burgi - Improv and the mind 1. Trang - Growing up between two cultures - too Vietnamese for Czechs, too Czech for Vietnamese 1. Annouchka Bousquet - Marketing & Manipulation : the cigarette Industry (XXe century) 1. This event is solo-friendly, there will be plenty of things to talk about. So join alone or bring a friend, everyone is welcome. It's a free event and so be sure to support our hosts, Dorado Coffee, by buying drinks.

Hello, we are starting SU&W at Scouts Institute this Sunday! Please find us at a table across from the cafe. The event starts at 12, and the writing starts at 12:15! We will have 45 minutes of writing, followed by a 15 minute break. Then another 45 minutes of writing. Please purchase something to support the cafe and the space ☺️ Follow us on Whatsapp! https://chat.whatsapp.com/HeZDsZNFD8BKn8JohRlbkI

🕯️ Blood on the Clocktower — English session Newcomers welcome. No experience needed — we’ll explain everything before we start. 🗓️ Saturday 11/04 — 17:00 📩 DM me to join We’re hosting a Blood on the Clocktower session – a social deduction game full of mystery, bluffing, and unforgettable moments. 🩸 What to expect: \- Unique roles – no one is just a “villager” 🔮 \- Even after you die\, you still matter – your voice and vote can change everything ⚖️ \- Real interaction\, logic\, and bluffing – read people\, persuade\, create chaos 😏 If you’ve played Mafia, Werewolf, The Resistance, Coup, Spyfall, Secret Hitler, or Among Us – this goes bigger: more strategy, more twists, more fun! 🎭

Let's play badminton at Sports Centre Olšanka. We'll meet at 10.40 and play for 60 minutes. If you have a Multisport card please bring it along, as it will make the court free for you and also reduce the cost for others. If you don't have a Multisport card the game will cost you a maximum of 150 crowns, probably much less. I will cover the cost of the court so please bring cash to pay me. There is a small organisation fee of 20 crowns for all players to participate in this event. Racquets can be rented for 50 crowns.

Queer coffee meetup on Sunday 26 April at 14:00 New spot: Cafe Frida in Karlín! Nothing formal, no pressure, just a relaxed place to sit, chat, and meet new people. Come alone or bring a friend. We'll have a reserved table so you can easily find us. Everyone welcome, LGBTQIA+ people and allies.

**6-a-side Football** practice at Pražačka Football artificial grass pitch. Maximum of 36 participants for 6 teams of 6. **Kick off at 12h00**. Everybody is welcome, no age, gender nor any restriction of any type to join. Cost: **90 crowns**. Please send the money using the **QR Code** stored here: https://imgur.com/a/PjU32Fi In case of any Opt-out within 24h of the session, or no show, the payment will be due (you still can ask someone to come instead of you, as your spot will be booked)

**Galaksia Praha 23** is letting **players to join** each of **their trainings for free** **as a trial** session to join the **5x5** Galaksia **basketball** team. If you are interested to join the team, you can **sign up here**. Maximum 2 players will be joining the training as trials. Please sign up **to only one training** as only one trial is allowed per player. If you sign up to more than one sessions, only the earliest one will be kept. Once you signed in and are therefore confirmed, **please be at** the address (ZŠ Bítovská indoor basketball court) **at 19h15** to be ready for the training starting at 19h30. After receiving Coaches feedback, we will then reach out back to you following the trial. In case of any Opt-out within 24h of the session, or no show, the trial will be considered passed and it will not be possible to join another training.

Looking to meet new people and enjoy a relaxed day full of board games? Join us at Palmovka for a cozy board-gaming meet-up open to everyone — beginners, casual players, and experienced gamers! We have a big selection of games, from easy social titles to strategic favourites. You can come alone or with friends — our community is super friendly, and we always make sure nobody sits alone. Don’t worry if you don’t know the rules — we’ll happily explain everything. ✔ Friendly atmosphere ✔ Lots of games to choose from ✔ Perfect for meeting new people ✔ Come anytime during the day ✔ No registration needed entry fee 50czk (no hour limit) if you do not order anything at bar it is 100czk. Whether you want to laugh, think, or just relax after a long day, this is the perfect place to unwind and connect with others. See you at Palmovka – let’s play!

*** **Description** Join us for the very first Pure Tea Tasting Prague event! Discover unique teas, meet fellow tea lovers, and enjoy a relaxing evening focused on wellness and mindful living. **What to Expect:** * Guided tasting of premium pure teas (including vegan and wellness-focused options) * Introduction to tea rituals and culture * Friendly conversation and community networking * Light healthy snacks **Agenda:** * 17:00 – Welcome & introductions * 17:15 – Tea tasting session (multiple varieties) * 18:15 – Open discussion, Q&A, and social time * 19:00 – Event close **What to Bring:** * Just your curiosity and good mood! All tea and snacks are provided. **Location:** Pure Spa, Le Palais Art Hotel, Prague (Details and directions will be sent after RSVP.) **Who Should Join:** Anyone interested in tea, wellness, or making new friends in Prague. All experience levels welcome! ***

Who can attend this meetup: The tour is an introduction to Prague and is mainly for expats and visitors to our city but everybody who would like to join is invited. ***Important***, please also fill in the booking form on our [website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) if you are planning to come (otherwise we will not expect you). Description: Meet us by the Powder Tower, the historical gate to the Old Town and starting point of the Royal Route. Then have an educative walk through the narrow and picturesque streets of the historical center of Prague. Enjoy the unique diversity of architectural styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau. See some of the most interesting sites and get to know fascinating facts and legends of the 1000-year old capital of Bohemia. End the tour at the riverside 5 minutes away from the Charles Bridge, from which you can continue the tour on your own (or again with us) towards Malá Strana or Prague Castle. ====== Meeting point: We will be standing by the Powder Tower at the side of the Namestí Republiky square with a green umbrella in hand :) Map: https://goo.gl/maps/tzqKpZ2945S2 Price: there is no fixed price, you will be able to decide yourself how much you value the tour. If you don't know how much is best (and can afford it) we recommend 200Kč, but it really depends on you how much you contribute. Join us also on our [Facebook profile](https://www.facebook.com/freewalkingtoursprague/) :) and if you are travelling to other cities check out our friends at the [Free Tour Community website](https://freetourcommunity.com/). For any questions, please contact us at info@freewalkingtourprague.eu. Unfortunately, the meetup application does not always send us phone notifications. Reminder - only people who booked on our [official free walking tour website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) can join the tour and if the tour shows fully booked on the website it means there are no free spots. The meetup list doesn't count in this case. We look forward to meeting you, Michal, Amanda, Lana, Iva & Chris

We’re meeting again for our fourth knitting and crocheting gathering in Prague! With each meetup, our little community becomes more warm, welcoming, and inspiring—and we’d love for you to be part of it. Join us for a few cozy hours of crafting, chatting, and exchanging tips and ideas. Bring your knitting or crochet project (or just your curiosity), and enjoy a friendly, no-pressure atmosphere. New faces are always welcome, and beginners are encouraged to join!

2026 April 11 vs 11 match game. Sunday 16:00pm Start~ 18:00pm [ FCRK vs Japan] Please prepare at least 10 minutes before the game. We are only max 12~13player , so it means Player will be play more than 75min~ (checked on board) cost 200czk. Team members who can attend, please write your desired position/age in the comments. (2hour) 1Q~ 3Qplay, each Q game time is 30min.

**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

**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

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?

**✨ Zoom Speed Dating for Toledo Locals – Matched by Age & Personality** This online speed dating event is built around a host who sets the tone, keeps things easy, and helps people feel comfortable from the first minute. Genuine conversations with real locals — all from your living room. Join from home, get paired with Toledo singles your age, and have real conversations on Zoom. A host manages everything so you can just relax and enjoy. **Register under your age group:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=18-32&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=30-46&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=40-58&face_v=1.0) **⚠️ Your RSVP doesn't guarantee a place.** Click your age group link below, register, and take the personality quiz to lock in your spot. Limited places. --- 🎯 **Great fit for:** - First-timers new to speed dating - Anyone who likes connecting online before meeting face-to-face - 🔥 People fed up with swiping who want actual conversation ⭐ *"10/10. The host was fantastic and I actually had fun on the dates."* – Toledo first-timer 🛠 **What the flow looks like** 1. **Pick your age group** – Register through your link above. 2. **Complete the quiz** – Short personality quiz so we can match you well. 3. **Log in** – Connect to the Zoom session from home. The host runs the show. 4. **Speed date** – One-on-one rounds with personality-matched Toledo locals. 📌 **What to know** - **Format:** Hosted on Zoom – one-on-one video dates - 🔥 **Location:** Online from home – no need to go anywhere - **Host:** Live host handling rounds and introductions 💡 **Tip:** Good lighting and a clean background make a big difference. --- ✨ Meet Toledo singles from home. Sign up and we'll take care of the rest. 🥰 ✨ Quick version: this one gets straight to the point. Built for clarity over length. 🤝 **Community angle** - The community matters as much as the session itself - The structure is designed to help people settle in quickly - The host keeps the pace clear and the room welcoming That community angle is deliberate: better conversations, more familiar faces, and stronger momentum over time.

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.

**🦋 Virtual Speed Dating – Indianapolis Singles, Curated by Personality** This online speed dating format leans into the human side: strong hosting, repeat attendees, and a sense that the event is part of a growing community. Meet Indianapolis singles from home. We sort the matching, you just turn up. Quick, hosted rounds on Zoom with Indianapolis singles paired to your age group and personality. No awkward pauses — just natural conversation. **Choose your age range to register:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=18-32&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=30-46&face_v=1.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=circle-of-singles-connecting-in-person&ar=40-58&face_v=1.0) **⚠️ RSVP alone won't secure your spot.** You need to register through your age group link below and complete the personality quiz. Places are limited. --- 🎯 **Especially useful for:** - Singles in Indianapolis who want to meet people from home - People fed up with swiping who want actual conversation - First-timers new to speed dating 📌 **What to know** - ⚡ **Format:** Zoom video session – short timed rounds - 🌍 **Location:** Online from home – no need to go anywhere - **Host:** Experienced host steering the session 🧭 **How the session runs** 1. **Register** – Select your age group above and sign up. 2. **Fill in the matching quiz** – Helps us find your ideal matches for the evening. 3. **Join on Zoom** – Click the link, jump on, and the host handles the rest. 4. **Meet your matches** – Cycle through short chats with compatible Indianapolis singles. 💡 **Tip:** Check your Zoom setup and pick a quiet, well-lit spot ahead of time. **Frequently Asked Questions** **How long are the chats?** A few minutes each — just enough to get a sense of someone. **Do I need anything besides Zoom?** **What if I'm shy?** --- ✨ Your next match could be one Zoom call away. � ✨ Compressed version with the essentials only. Everything important, without the extra padding. 🤝 **Community angle** - Repeat attendees help create familiarity and momentum - The atmosphere is guided, social, and easy to join - The structure is designed to help people settle in quickly That community angle is deliberate: better conversations, more familiar faces, and stronger momentum over time.

Communication is everything in life! You are only as successful as your ability to communicate. \- What if you could confidently talk to anyone? \- What if you had the ability to calmly control every conversation? \- What if you could close that sale\, ask for that date\, make new friends\, repair problematic relationships\, get that raise\, or effortlessly express any idea with confidence? You can! The secret to success relies on your ability or inability to effectively communicate. Attend a free seminar and gain a better ability to communicate. 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH 43215 Hosted by the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio For more information, contact Rhiannon, the Event Host at 614-221-5024