Secularism

**1\. The good: class struggle and alienation from labor** "In ancient times, the haves were the slave-owners and the have-nots the slaves. The interests of these two groups were entirely opposed. Any increase in the prosperity of the owner is at the expense of the slave and vice versa. It is a zero-sum relationship. So conflict is an unavoidable consequence. ... In Marx's analysis, this arrangement amounted to an 'alienation' of the slave from the fruits of his labor. Marx advocated the 'labour theory of value' in which the value of something is based on the labor used to produce it." (Frame, 283) a) Do we measure economic value? (Scarcity, survival, aesthetics, labor or some sort of combo?) b) Would you agree that alienation is a powerful phenomenological description? (Why, why not?) [Video: 'The Great British Class System, Explained' ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWx2MhyFYyY) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWx2MhyFYyY c) Why is class less discussed in our modern world than gender, race and religion? **2\. The bad: dialetical materialism** "Marx was a determinist like Hegel, and he believed that the laws of being progressed in the form of a Hegelian dialetic. [movement between contrasting viewpoints] But he beleived that the ultimate causes of events were material, not mental. So he was a dialetical materialist. Further, in his view, those ultimate causes were economic." (Frame, 282) a) 'Materialism is a deficient philosophical paradigm', why or why not? b) How do we prevent our theories being overapplied? (Eg Marx thinking everything is economic.) [Optional Video 'Optimistic Nihilism' by Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MBRqu0YOH14&t=1s) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MBRqu0YOH14&t=1s **The ugly: revolutionary eschatology** "...Therefore the poor are driven to revolt. Again Marx anticipates that this will bring a radical change in the social order, a revolution. Marx believed that in this particular revolution the proletariat will be the winner. So society will be governed for a time by a 'dictatorship of the proletariat'." (Frame, 284) a) Some revolutions are celebrated (eg the American Revolution), so why do so many turn out badly (eg the French Revolution)? b) Is change possible without 'breaking a few eggs' and after one revolution what prevents a cylce of revolution and counter-revolution? **Bonus: cultural Marxism** "a really bigoted quack [conspiracy theory](https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=conspiracy%20theory) wherein [conservatives](https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=conservatives) assert that there is a conspiracy where black people, lgbt people, leftists, immigrants, and anti-colonial advocates are seen as working together to instill Marxism under the pretense of [multiculturalism](https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=multiculturalism)." (Urban Dictionary, 2013) Optional preperation movie: 'Land of the Blind' (2006) - Recommended with caution, some adult content. *A History of Western Philosophy and Theology* by John M. Frame

Join, Stephen Fiyalko, President of the Melbourne Theosophical Society, at 1:30pm on Saturday 14 February 2026 for a talk and practical workshop, in follow-up to previous talks, which looks at life’s purpose as one becomes aware of, engages with and embraces the process of transformation. This talk and workshop considers how to engage together joyfully with transformational choice in the context of the 12 Laws (principles not rules) of the Universe, their keys and theosophy. The Laws themselves suggest that who we consider ourselves to be based on our nature, personality, knowledge, karma, education, emotions, social constraints, habits, ego, mind and the hidden shadow self can form a barrier to perceiving ourselves, other people and the world as it is because according, e.g., to the Law of Relativity perception based on comparison and judgement clouds clarity of mind. The question is asked: how can the choices on the path to spiritual transformation we make be well-grounded without clarity of mind? Does the answer relate to the possibility that transformation is a continuous process which can be facilitated by our growing awareness of the Laws of the Universe and the influence of the hidden Shadow. The talk also considers how all of the Laws flow gracefully through all our lives and that with application of their keys in tandem can magnify the effect and joy of the choices we make. The talk and workshop will consider the practicality of embracing with compassion and joy every aspect of our whole being within the Laws which teach us in tandem the lessons of awareness needed to take us forward on the path of spiritual transformation. The point is made that the Laws themselves have purpose; that our journeys are very personal; that we learn by our own choices at our own pace; but we can benefit from sharing our journeys together. Handouts will be provided. Non-members will be asked to donate $5 at the door, Members are free.

Join Edward Sinclair as we read, explore, reflect and study together some fascinating Theosophical texts. This session we will be reading from a theosophical text titled: **Theosophy: An Introductory Study Course** by John Algeo *‘Have you ever wondered about the “big” questions of* *life?* *Who am I really?* *Why is the world the way it is?* *Where did I come from?* *What am I doing here?* *What comes next?* *When will I find out all these things?’* This book covers many fascinating topics such as karma, reincarnation, life after death, and the purpose of life to name a few. This is an introductory book but is a fascinating exploration for all. Open to TS members and non-members - all are welcome. For persons wishing to find out about membership of the The Melbourne Theosophical Society, we invite you to attend this study group, after the session there will be an opportunity to ask questions concerning membership. Non Members $5 Entry, T.S. Members Complimentary.

✨ **Do you want to...** * 🫶🏽 Connect with like-minded people in your local community? * 🏋🏽‍♂️ Meet others who are passionate about growing, uplifting themselves, and supporting others? * 🌈 Share insights from your personal journey (or simply listen and learn)? * 🧘🏼‍♂️ Experience a simple yet powerful meditation practice to find calm and clarity? Or maybe you just want to... ☮️💟☯️ **Spend your Sunday evening in a peaceful, zen space and meet some amazing new people?** *** ### **Join us on Sundays!** Let’s come together, share positive energy, and build a warm, supportive local community. **Bring a friend (or two!) and let’s connect.** *** ### **What’s on the evening’s flow?** * **Open meet & greet** – connect and settle in * **Sharing circle** (totally optional!) – share your thoughts or simply listen * **20-30 min guided meditation** – for relaxation and deeper connection *** ### **Everyone is welcome!** All ages (with guardians for under 18), backgrounds, genders, and experiences – no meditation experience needed. The event runs for about **2.5 hours**, but you’re free to come and go as you need. *** ### **What to bring?** * **Donation:** A contribution of **$10 or more is recommended**. Your donations directly help us cover venue costs, provide resources, and keep this meditation community alive and growing. * **Warm jumper/jacket** (just in case!) * **Water** * **Any books/resources/inspiration you’d love to share** *** ### **Where?** 📍 **250 George St, Fitzroy VIC 3065** Enter through the church gates. You’ll see a small garden on the left and stairs on the right leading up to the **Dance of Life Yoga Studio (first door on your right upstairs).** *** ### **Important Notes:** * Spaces are **limited**, so if you can’t make it, please update your RSVP to “Not going” or send us a quick message. * **No-show policy:** To keep it fair for everyone, repeat no-shows without notice may not be able to RSVP in the future. * Attendees under 18 must have a guardian present.

## ⚽ Welcome to Street Football Culture **Instagram:** [@streetfootballculture](https://instagram.com/streetfootballculture) **Facebook:** https://www.facebook.com/share/19Vw4Xzbi5/?mibextid=wwXIfr We’re a passionate community of street football Culture lovers who come together regularly to play, connect and celebrate the beautiful games.Our games are friendly, inclusive, and full of energy open to anyone, regardless of age, background, or skill level. ⏰ **Kickoff: 7:00 PM sharp** Please arrive **10 minutes early** to warm up and help with team setup. ⏳ **Game Duration:** 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM 🕹️ **Game Format** * Maximum **4 teams** * **First to 2 goals wins** and stays on * Teams winning **3 games in a row** must rotate out to give others a chance * Teams that **concede 2 goals** are out (even if under 2 minutes) * Games capped at **7 minutes** if score is 1–0 or a draw * If still tied after 7 minutes → **Penalty shootout** * If final score is **2–1**, game ends immediately * **Goalkeeper Rotation:** Every player rotates into goal **after a goal is conceded.** *** ## 👟 What to Bring & Wear * **Footwear:** Futsal shoes or runners only (artificial turf surface) * **Hydration:** Water fountains available near the courts * **Toilets:** Public restrooms close by courts ( 5 mins walk) * **Valuables:** You are responsible for your own personal items *** ## 📢 Important Notes * Participation is **at your own risk** — no player insurance or on-site medical support provided. * **Respect the game and each other.** * Show good sportsmanship, support everyone’s effort, and **celebrate the winning team.** *** ## 📲 How to Book Your Spot https://forms.gle/f7W9kx1aQvJxDQzT8 📩 **Message us now to book your Place.** **WhatsApp:** [https://whatsapp.com/](https://whatsapp.com/) **Instagram:** [@streetfootballculture](https://instagram.com/streetfootballculture) **Facebook:** https://www.facebook.com/share/19Vw4Xzbi5/?mibextid=wwXIfr 💰 **Fee:** $10 per player **Payment Methods:** * PayID * Bank Transfer * **After payment, please take a screenshot and Either: Send it to us Via Message, or show it to us at the court.** **💰 Refund Policy** * **Full refunds are only offered if the event is cancelled (e.g. due to poor weather).** * **If you need to cancel, please give us at least 4 hours’ notice.** * ***🔥 Let’s Play!*** We can’t wait to see you on the pitch, Courts for another awesome Sunday of street-style futsal. Let’s bring the **energy**, the **passion**, and above all — the **heart**. **See you out there!** #StreetFootballCulture

✨ **EVENT OVERVIEW** This special Valentine’s Day gathering is a collaboration between Find **Your Tribe Melbourne** and **Soulful Conversations** coming together to celebrate love in its many forms — romantic, platonic, self-love, and love for humanity — through soulful conversations and meaningful connections. Rooted in openness, curiosity, and respect for diverse perspectives, this event invites you to slow down, reflect, and engage in conversations that go beyond surface-level chat. In the spirit of **Valentine’s Day**, we’ll explore spiritual and philosophical perspectives on love, connection, and purpose, while creating space to meet like-minded people who value depth, authenticity, and community. Whether you’re spiritually curious, philosophically inclined, or simply seeking more meaningful connection, you are warmly welcome. **TICKET** Tickets are $10, which covers your coffee (or equivalent drink of choice) on the day, and any remaining funds will be donated to Oxfam. 🌿 **EVENT STRUCTURE** 12:30 pm – Arrival & Welcome Arrive, grab a drink or lunch, and settle in. This is a relaxed arrival period to meet others and ease into the space. 12:45 pm – Soulful Conversations A guided discussion exploring spiritual and philosophical quotes on love, encouraging reflection, shared insights, and respectful dialogue across different perspectives. 2:00 pm – Find Your Tribe Connection Activity A facilitated connection activity hosted by Find Your Tribe Melbourne, designed to help you engage more deeply with others through thoughtful prompts and intentional conversation. 📍 **MEETING POINT** Please ask café staff for the reservation under “Soulful Conversations” or meet us at the back of the café where we will have large tables. 🌱 **NEW HERE?** **Soulful Conversations** Soulful Conversations creates a welcoming space to explore meaningful topics through reflective dialogue inspired by the Baha'i teachings and drawing on spiritual and philosophical ideas in an inclusive and open-hearted way. **Find Your Tribe Melbourne** Find Your Tribe is a community where ambitious professionals, creatives, entrepreneurs, and change-makers come together to build authentic connections and support personal and professional growth, with a mission to foster meaningful relationships and conscious leadership. **LIABILITY DISCLAIMER** By attending this event, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and are responsible for your own health, safety, and well-being during the activities. *Soulful Conversations* and its hosts are not liable for any injury, loss, or damage that may occur. Please take care, be mindful of your surroundings, and participate within your own comfort level. **PHOTO AND VIDEO DISCLAIMER** Please note that photos and videos may be taken throughout the event and may be used on our social media channels or other platforms. If you prefer not to be photographed or filmed, kindly inform one of the hosts at the beginning of the event.

The 2026 Melbourne ISKCON Ratha Yatra (Festival of the Chariots) is scheduled for Sunday, February 15, in St Kilda, typically coinciding with the St Kilda Festival. The procession begins at 1:00 pm at Cleve Gardens (corner of Fitzroy St & Beaconsfield Pde), featuring free music, dance, and vegetarian food at Catani Gardens from 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm. **Key Details for 2026:** * **Date:** Sunday, February 15, 2026 * **Chariot Parade Start:** 1:00 PM, beginning at Cleve Gardens, St Kilda. * **Location:** The procession travels through the St Kilda Festival precinct, with celebrations concentrated at Catani Gardens, 6 Jacka Boulevard. * **Features:** The event is free and includes a procession with decorated chariots, Hare Krishna food stalls (Veg/Vegan), mantra dance music, drama,, and kids' activities.

Meditation practicing

This is a paid event, $50 — please purchase your tickets here: https://www.trybooking.com/DIVKN 14th February, Carlton. You’re invited to an unhurried afternoon of tea and inner listening. We’ll start with organic tea, prepared and shared slowly. Once the room settles, we will watch a 45-minute video presentation - an introduction to the Deck and how to use it in a grounded way. Then you’ll do your own simple practice: draw a Card see what it stirs, and share with us only if you want to (quiet participation is completely welcome).

Dale Gnidovec, Curator of the Orton Hall Museum of Geology at The Ohio State University, will be presenting a program he has wanted to share with us for a long time: Plate Tectonics. His description of his program: Continents on the move - Nothing in Earth history makes sense without moving continents - it tells us why mountains, volcanoes, minerals, and fossils are where they are. This talk examines the evidence for continental drift, why it was disbelieved, and explains how the more-encompassing theory of plate tectonics was developed and eventually proven. Dale is an energetic, incredibly knowledgeable, and very entertaining speaker and this will be another wonderful program by Dale. Hope to see you there! Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

**When:** Saturday\, February 21 \| 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM **Where:** [1124 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH 43206](https://twodollarradiohq.com/about-us) Looking for a night of meaningful connection and great vegan food? Join us at [Two Dollar Radio Headquarters](https://www.google.com/viewer/place?mid=/g/11fkn49_yq&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj14_nkjsWSAxVt4ckDHdRCH4oQqdYPegYIAQgFEAI) for a special community gathering! **What’s on the menu?** While [2$R](https://www.google.com/viewer/place?mid=/g/11fkn49_yq&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj14_nkjsWSAxVt4ckDHdRCH4oQqdYPegYIAQgGEAI) typically serves a selection of [house-made sandwiches](https://twodollarradiohq.com/weekly-food) and vegan pastries, they are creating a **special menu** specifically for our event. You can also grab a coffee, tea, or a drink from their [full bar](https://twodollarradiohq.com/) of cocktails and beer. **The Main Event:** * **Play:** Bring a favorite game from home to share or dive into the ones available at the shop. * **Connect:** Meet new and old friends in a space that values independent culture and plant-based living. * **Support:** Help us champion a local, family-owned vegan business that doubles as a powerhouse [indie book publisher](https://twodollarradio.com/pages/headquarters). **Parking Instructions:** * **Street Parking:** There is free public street parking available on both sides of Parsons Avenue and on the surrounding residential side streets. * **Lot Parking:** The [Columbus Metropolitan Library](https://www.google.com/viewer/place?mid=/g/126262ks5&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj14_nkjsWSAxVt4ckDHdRCH4oQqdYPegYIAQgKEAM) lot (1113 Parsons Ave) is located directly across the street and is available for guest use **only after the library has closed**. On Saturdays, the lot is typically available starting at 6:00 PM. * **Bike Parking:** For those cycling, there is a bike rack conveniently located at the corner of Cline and Parsons.

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

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!

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.