Societal Change

Künstliche Intelligenz und Robotik stehen erst am Anfang – und doch ist absehbar, dass sie nicht nur einzelne Berufe, sondern ganze Vorstellungen von Arbeit, Leistung und gesellschaftlichem Wert verändern werden. Wenn Maschinen sowohl geistige als auch körperliche Tätigkeiten übernehmen können, stellt sich eine grundlegende Frage: **Was bedeutet es dann noch, Mensch zu sein – und wie organisieren wir Gesellschaft und Wirtschaft?** In dieser Diskussionsrunde wollen wir weniger über Technik sprechen, sondern über **gesellschaftliche Folgen**: * Welche Werte würden in einer Post-AI-Welt zählen? * Ist eine Gesellschaft ohne ökonomischen Zwang wünschenswert? * Wie sieht eine mögliche **Post-Work- oder Post-AI-Gesellschaft** aus * Wie verhält es sich mit Macht, Verteilung von Eigentum und Sinn Geht uns die Arbeit aus – oder gewinnen wir Freiheit? Stehen wir vor sozialem Zerfall oder vor einer neuen Form von Wohlstand? Und sind wir kulturell überhaupt darauf vorbereitet? Diese Diskussion richtet sich an alle, die sich für **Gesellschaft, Politik, Ethik und Zukunftsfragen** interessieren – ganz ohne technisches Vorwissen.

Please note that the name of the locality DOODE has been changed into Niko Niko Ni, Café Restaurant Bar. Join us for Coffee & Chat and practice your English! Every 2nd Tuesday of the month we meet at Niko Niko Ni, Café Restaurant Bar, Winterthur at 10:00 chat until 12:00. Ana is the organiser of this event. If you do not know her, look for the International Club Postcards on the table. We look forward to seeing you! Non-members are always invited to attend our events! This is a wonderful opportunity to experience what we have to offer and see if our club is the right fit for you. After joining us for 1 or 2 events, you can decide if you’d like to become a member. We look forward to welcoming you! About Us: The International Club Winterthur aims to connect, support and integrate individuals and families who have an international connection or interest. We are a non-political, not-for-profit, English-speaking association, actively fostering friendships and networks in Winterthur and its greater area. Follow us on MeetUp for our upcoming events: [https://www.meetup.com/the-international-club-winterthur/](https://www.meetup.com/the-international-club-winterthur/) Disclaimer: Please note that the International Club Winterthur is not responsible for any injuries or damages that may occur during the event. Additionally, photos may be taken at the event and shared on the club's social media platforms.

Deep Talks is a monthly Playhard format where we gather in a cozy restaurant setting, sitting together at one table, to share a relaxed dinner and explore one meaningful topic each month. Every edition has a new theme and invites deeper, more honest conversations - the kind you rarely find in everyday life. The setting is warm and social: you can order food and drinks, settle in comfortably, and let the evening unfold naturally. We create a safe, open space for reflection, sharing, and real connection - with no pressure to speak and no right or wrong answers. This month’s theme: CULTURE Come for the dinner. Stay for the conversation \*\*\* Hey girl, Just fyi Playhard is a members-only social club for girls 25-35ish in Zurich. We host 10-20 intimate events each month, from brunches and girls nights to deep talks and games… Don’t be confused by the event page signups — our social club has over 100 members and 8-15 girls come to each of our events. Being a member of Playhard is mandatory for attendance. To secure your spot in the community, please join the waitlist via our website: https://playhard.ch/ More about Playhard: Website: https://playhard.ch/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/playhard_zurich Dm us or email hey@playhard.ch with questions See you soon! xoxo Playhard

Korfball is a dynamic, no contact, mixed gender team sport. It pulls together aspects of netball, handball and basketball to form an unique and inclusive game. We will do some exercises, practice, play some games and have fun! :) Everyone is welcome to training, no experience required. Don't be misled by the low sign ups, our regulars don't use meet-up. We are usually 6-10 people.

«Mir wurde klar, dass ich das Gleichgewicht des Tages zerstört hatte, die außergewöhnliche Stille eines Strandes, an dem ich glücklich gewesen war. Da habe ich noch viermal auf einen leblosen Körper geschossen, in den die Kugeln eindrangen, ohne dass man es ihm ansah. Und es war wie vier kurze Schläge, mit denen ich an das Tor des Unglücks hämmerte.» Die Geschichte eines jungen Franzosen in Algerien, den ein lächerlicher Zufall zum Mörder macht, wurde 1942 im besetzten Frankreich zu einer literarischen Sensation. Der Roman bedeutete den schriftstellerischen Durchbruch für Albert Camus und gilt heute als einer der Haupttexte des Existenzialismus. Quelle: Klappentext Nachdem ich zuletzt „Die Pest“ von Albert Camus gelesen habe, habe ich nun zu einem weiteren Klassiker desselben Autors gegriffen. „Der Fremde“ (im Original „L’étranger“), 1942 bei Gallimard in Paris erschienen, ist Albert Camus‘ erster Roman und wurde zu einem der weltweit meistgelesenen französischen Romane, nach „Der kleine Prinz“ von Antoine de Saint-Exupéry und „20.000 Meilen unter dem Meer“ von Jules Vernes. Der Roman ist Teil des cycle de l’absurde, zu dem auch „Der Mythos des Sisyphus“ und die Theaterstücke „Caligula“ und „Das Missverständnis“ gehören. Das Buch bedeutete den schriftstellerischen Durchbruch für Albert Camus und wurde in Frankreich eine schriftstellerische Sensation. Was mich an diesem Text sofort gefesselt hat, war die Haltung des Erzählers namens Meursault. Es handelt sich um einen introvertierten Mann, der über große Teile der Handlung teilnahmslos und weitgehend gleichgültig auf die Ereignisse, die ihm zustoßen, reagiert. Der Text ist in zwei Teile gegliedert. Der erste Teil (6 Kapitel) schildert eine Begebenheit, der zweite Teil (5 Kapitel) behandelt deren Beurteilung durch die auftretenden Personen. Der erste Teil umfasst nur wenige Tage und schildert einzelne Episoden, der zweite Teil beschreibt die Handlung eines knappen Jahres und beinhaltet den Gefängnisaufenthalt, die Gerichtsverhandlung und die Verurteilung. Quelle: F. Birnmeyer via der-leser.net

We keep it a fun and practical language exchange. First thing you'll notice is we match you with **fluent speakers** in your target language. **Event Flow** **18:45–19:15** → Registration Scan the QR code to tell us your fluent and target languages. **19:15–20:30** → Language Exchange Powered by our **Learn by Flipping** method. **20:30 onwards** → Stay, chat, or head off — totally up to you 😉 **What is "Learn by Flipping"?** **Practical** → You speak with fluent speakers in your target language. **Collaborative** → Every 5 minutes, you switch roles: learner ↔ helper. **Fun** → Small groups, good energy, and a bar atmosphere — without the chaos. Save some time by [Signing up to our web app](https://fliplingoes.com/) beforehand. **Entrance:** 10 CHF (includes a tapa) Please note, event registration closes after 7:15PM

**❤️ WELCOME HOME** @ **Connection Space❤️** *Meet **new friends**. Reconnect with **old** ones. Feel at **home** — inspired by old traditional Greek cafés, where grandparents knew that the best connections happen over a drink and good company* . * **free** event * **See** **[PHOTOS & VIDEOS](https://photos.app.goo.gl/o476bvQ6ZC8CGhG57)** of our previous events * **Join our** **[WHATSAPP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ks9sGHsw16TIaJmDUQqoSi)** (zero-spam promise) and **[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/wearetheconnectionspace/)** for **latest info** on this event and **extra events** . . **Why? Offline fun meaningful connections** is what we all deeply desire and makes us truly happy and healthy (scientifically proven - read below)! . . **How?** We are not a "drinks meetup" - instead we create **one** event to **make new friends** with many **free** and **fun** optional activities: * **19:00 - 00:00** join the fun and simply **talk to anyone** ! * **20:00 speed-friending** (separate room) guaranteed process to meet new people while having fun - with moderator * **NEW 20:30** **Slow-Friending** (surprise new activity after your feedbacks) * **21:30 playful games (team vs team)** (separate room) lets stop adults ok?! With moderator * **NEW** **22:00** **80's 90's dance party** (and reggaeton of course!) * **new-comer area** (never was easier to spark a conversation, with ice-breakers, optional for first time attendees) * **fun** social card/board **games** * **mindful** card/board **games** * **4** **chill-out rooms** (if you prefer quietness) * **German-speaking** area (falls du nur Deutsch sprechen möchtest) . . . * We booked 100% of the location so its **safe to talk to everyone** * ***The event is inspired*** *by the [Swiss Stammtisch](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stammtisch) and Greek village coffeeshops ("[Καφενείο](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kafenio)"), once vibrant [community hubs](https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=569660528&sxsrf=AM9HkKlXnclaLfgcockKtdr9qHdmD5jaGw:1696060562834&q=greek+%5D(https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=569660528&sxsrf=AM9HkKlXnclaLfgcockKtdr9qHdmD5jaGw:1696060562834&q=greek+)%CE%BA%CE%B1%CF%86%CE%B5%CE%BD%CE%B5%CE%B9%CE%BF&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi52fX67dGBAxXnlf0HHZNiBHUQ0pQJegQICRAB&biw=1460&bih=913&dpr=2&udm=2) where people gathered daily. We innovate this concept with a modern twist. I, Christos, fondly remember visiting these with my grandfather and now revive this fading tradition with a modern twist. Hope you enjoy it ❤️* * 95% of people come **solo** \- you can too❤️ * Want to **host an activity** in 1 of our 4 private rooms? Workshops, games, connection activities, music, or any other ideas then send a message to Christos on 0768175380 * **Everyone is welcome**! Wir wollen gerne mehr **Schweizer/innen** dabei haben! Alle sind willkommen und die meisten können Deutsch sprechen. Not an expat event. **Everyone is welcome**! * The "**Connection Space**" meetup group is an independent meetup group and not associated any other group * **Testimonials** (scroll to "photos" section to read testimonials) *"The best event I know on Meetup to connect to new friends."* *"First participation, an evening to remember!"* *"So far in 7 years this is the first time I see a really good organised event!"* *"Mega schön" "Had a blast!"* *"I was positively surprised. They organized everything so well; I met some interesting, friendly people. I highly recommend it"* *"Great! Everything excellent, super organized... lots of people. Great atmosphere"* *"I am really grateful for the warm atmosphere, inspiring moments"* * We encourage no/low alcohol consumption and only allow responsible behaviours. . . . . . Want **more info** than our Summary above? Then please read below: . . . . . **WHY?** we ❤️ **uniting people** and building **community** while having **fun!** We truly believe that **fun meaningful offline connections** to new & existing friends makes us truly happy and healthy! Our community meets **every 2 Fridays** in a **homey,** caring and **welcoming** "come as you are" environment ! . **WHAT is this event?** We are not a "party or drinks" meetup, nor we follow a "forced" process and agenda. Instead, we are a **Connection Community** inspired by Greek village cafes and Swiss Stammtisch — a welcoming environment where neighbours gathered as equals to share stories and build lasting friendships. We meet in a "**fixed-rhythm**" every 2 Fridays in a **homey** & **lovingly-hosted space** so you can connect with new and familiar faces. We provide **several optional activities** to help you **connect** with others—so you're free to **explore what resonates** with you! Together these activities create a unique **Connection** **Event.** . . . . **TIPS on how to connect:** * **Look out for a good smile/vibe** in a person/group of 2-3 people and say "Hi my name is xxx, can I join?". * **Try something different** (person, game, table, activity) often until you find **fun** **quality connection.** We have a lot of activities * **Ask** **Support:** we understand going out to meet friends can be a stretch. We make this easy with a fun and safe event. Also you can ask for help from our clearly communicated (see photos of this event) "**People Connectors**" who can help you discreetly to connect with others * **Invest time**(not quickly just come by) as friendships are an investment * **Come back**: big turnaround, people come randomly at each event, so you never know who you ll meet . . **.** **Some final words:** * **Bravo** **to you** for the courage to go out to meet new people! We know **everyone is unique** \- thats why we got a big new\-comer area\, 4 co\-hosts welcoming and connecting you\, and many activities for you to **choose** from to find what **suits you**! * **Weather?** Event takes place rain or shine, with indoors rooms and outdoors area that is ultra rain-protected * **Coming late?** no problem, we got many people until closing at 00:00 so come whenever! * **Too many attendees?** no problem, we got the space! Also as per the "what" above: you define what makes the event meaningful for you! Furthermore, the co-organisers have one goal: to say hi and introduce you to the event and people (if you want to please ask)! Finally remember: you dont have to talk to everyone, focus in a few people! Less is more! If you dont know where to start look for a good smile or an activity more matching to you. From there keep on trying people and activities.. * **Why so many options above for connection?** We always have: a first-timer area, Fun social games, Mindful games, ice-breaker questions or simply just talk freely to anyone. Often we add: Speed-friending and a Music jam. We believe **you are unique** and each of us prefers different ways of connection. Also we want to provide an opportunity for everyone to try something new * **Easy and Safe:** We have the whole location reserved for us so its safe to open up and meet new friends (unlike bars in Zürich where people find it strange if strangers talk to them). Christos and volunteers will also help with connection. Read more info below. * **Christos** (see [PHOTO](https://photos.app.goo.gl/pdtVaVGCyDEJ28uE8)) and our co-organisers will be wearing name budges and will aim to **welcome** **everyone.** * more info via our **[LINKS](http://linktr.ee/connectionspace)** * Yes YOU are **good** & **courageous** for looking for new fun connections! * Everyone is in same situation and you ll be surprised how **friendly people** are ❤️ * Come **early** though **later** also ok as many people there **until 00:00** * **It works**! We heard of many new friendships, living together and even getting a new job * **Mindful Connection Games:** from [The School of Life](https://www.theschooloflife.com/shop/?_product_type=games-card-sets) available: Confessions Game, The Friendship Game, Connection Game, The Loser Game, Games for grown-ups and three sets of "100 questions" (Conversation Toolkit & Careers & Relationships) * **Fun Social Games:** bring your own **board/card games** or choose from: Cards against humanity, Exploding Kittens, Codenames, Debatable, Sotally Tober, Taboo, Mafia, Uno, Monopoly and more. . . . . ``` Disclaimer & participation terms (Connection Space): By registering for and/or attending this event (“Event”), you agree: Registration required. Follow organizer/venue instructions; we may refuse entry or remove anyone for safety/behavior.You attend voluntarily and at your own risk; risks include injury/illness, conflicts/harassment, emotional distress, and property loss/damage.To the maximum extent permitted by law, Connection Space/organizers/staff/venue/partners aren’t liable for injury, loss, theft, damage, or costs; this doesn’t limit liability where unlawful (e.g., gross negligence/intent).Zero tolerance for violence, threats, harassment/discrimination, unwanted touching, weapons, illegal drugs, or unsafe/excessively intoxicated behavior. Report issues; we may remove participants and contact security/police/emergency services.You’re responsible for your health/fitness, alcohol use, transport home, allergies/diet; no allergen-free guarantee.You’re responsible for your belongings and any damage you cause.Photos/video/audio may be recorded and used for marketing by Connection Space/partners; opt out by telling us at check-in (we’ll try, but can’t guarantee exclusion from background footage).You must follow third-party venue rules; we may change schedule/location/format for safety or operational reasons. Finally, the organisers have the right to refuse entry with and without a ticket as the organizers see fit. In case of a ticket purchase a full refund will be made in that case. ```

Join the Language Exchange to meet new people, practice your foreign languages and spend a good time together. We will serve free tapas such as Bruschetta, Wedges, Nachos or similar. **How it works**: Choose the country flag sticker of the languages that you speak or want to practice! Seat on the right language table and start your conversation with our conversation topic cards. Average group size: 25 participants **When**: Every Saturday, 20:00 - 22:00 **Where**: 2.Akt Zürich **Price**: 10.- incl. Snacks **Tickets**: https://tinyurl.com/LX-18-04-26 (please buy ticket online) **WhatsApp Group**: https://chat.whatsapp.com/8jkvEUJ5jLp75fYglQFCNJ (join for updates & pics) **After the Language Exchange:** Pub Crawl (optional) For those who want to continue the night, we have a Bar Tour starting from the same place at 10PM. Watch [this video](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/VrBFWgXQNhw) to know what expect! Language Exchange participant get a 10fr discount when buying the combo-ticket online. Your Event Hosts Didem, Sébastien & Katja, Fernando More info: [https://www.pubcrawlzurich.com/languageexchange](https://www.pubcrawlzurich.com/languageexchange) Event pictures? Follow us on [IG](https://www.instagram.com/languageexchangezurich) and [FB](https://www.facebook.com/zurichlanguageexchange)

**[⚠️ >>Ticket needed (click here)<<](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/eating-drinking/latin-dance-class-speed-friending-7435061603534427947.html) or** **[www.social-circle.ch](http://www.social-circle.ch/)** **ANNTIN x Social Circle** Transform your Saturday night with a fresh mix of movement and music! We are teaming up to bring you an evening where dancing meets real connection. We’ll kick things off with a one-hour Latino dance class featuring a fun group choreography—no partner or prior experience required. This isn't a technical practice for professionals; it’s all about embracing the rhythm, shaking off the week, and enjoying a high-energy Saturday night in a supportive, beginner-friendly space. **Join the group for this event:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/EsTccDt6vB2A8z3OXbPUbW?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EsTccDt6vB2A8z3OXbPUbW?mode=gi_t) After we’ve found our rhythm on the dance floor, we’ll dedicate the second hour to a speed friending session. This is the perfect way to break the ice and meet new people in a relaxed, intentional setting. Whether you join us solo or with friends, the focus is on stepping away from the typical club scene to discover a community that values authentic interaction. Join us for a night of music and movement designed to help you expand your circle and find your balance. Step onto the dance floor, meet new people, and start connecting at ANNTIN. ​P.S. Pictures might be taken during the event, if you do not want it please let the organizer know. Tickets are non-refundable. **Want more events like this? Join our WhatsApp community:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/DaGFCvKs6iu62pftk5cotM?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DaGFCvKs6iu62pftk5cotM?mode=gi_t)

Sundays, 2pm-3pm. Trial class: CHF 20 Drop-in: CHF 35 Book here: www.balancewithale.com/zurich/handstand "I'll never be able to handstand". You kick at the wall but see no progress. Your wrists hurt. You don't know how to improve... It doesn't have to be this way. Progress doesn't come from trying harder — it comes from practicing smarter. Handstands are a skill, and when you train them as such, they begin to click in a way that feels almost magical. This class builds the foundations (strength, alignment and technique) that make handstands feel achievable and fun. Through clear progressions and personalized drills, you'll discover how capable your body truly is, and how handstands start to feel within reach when you train with intention and support. Because drills are tailored to you, the class welcomes all levels — from "I've never kicked up before" to confident freestanding balancers who want to develop greater control.

**[⚠️ >>Ticket needed (click here)<<](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/dating/other-events/brunch-museum-visit-singles-only-30-45-y-7438259166093829131.html) or** **[www.social-circle.ch](https://social-circle.ch/)** 🥐 **Brunch & Museum of the Future** **Singles only \| Ages 30–45** Looking to meet new people in Zurich in a relaxed and meaningful way — without loud bars or forced small talk? Join us for a curated brunch at **Ribelli**, followed by a shared cultural experience at the **Museum für Gestaltung Zürich**. ✨ **Why join?** * Meet like-minded singles (30–45) in a natural, pressure-free setting * Connect through a shared experience, not just small talk * Enjoy the perfect mix of social interaction, culture, and creativity * Ideal for those who appreciate curiosity, deep conversations, and good vibes 🍽 **Brunch at Ribelli** At **Ribelli**, Italian hospitality meets urban flair. Inspired by the Mediterranean—from Sicily to Tuscany—the menu is fresh, colourful, and made to be shared. Ribelli is a lively place to sit together and enjoy Mediterranean joy of life – spontaneous, sociable, and relaxed. 🎨 **Museum Experience** After brunch, explore the **Museum für Gestaltung Zürich**, home to Switzerland’s largest international design collection. The **Swiss Design Collection** presents around 2,500 objects spanning graphic design, typography, poster design, textiles, product design, and applied arts. Dive into the archive, see the objects up close, and discover the unique stories behind each creation. The integrated studio allows you to experiment, create your own designs, or simply enjoy the creative atmosphere. 💬 **Join our group for this event:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/FoJN0DzRQgF232huSHiGOi](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FoJN0DzRQgF232huSHiGOi) ℹ️ **Practical info** * Included: museum entrance * ❗Food is not included * Limited spots to keep the group intimate and balanced * Come solo — leave inspired, connected, and maybe with someone new to explore the future with ​**Important:** Tickets are **non-refundable**. Pictures might be taken during the event, if you do not want it please let the organizer know. ​Want more events like this? Join our WhatsApp community: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/DaGFCvKs6iu62pftk5cotM](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DaGFCvKs6iu62pftk5cotM)

**[⚠️ >>Ticket needed (click here)<<](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/eating-drinking/paint-play-night-7438248983791670761.html) or** **[www.social-circle.ch](http://www.social-circle.ch/)** **Canvas & Board Games Night @ Boho** Looking for a cozy evening without small talk? Join us for a relaxed evening of **canvas painting, board games, and good conversations** at **Boho**. Join our group for this event: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JPIASNUJGwD23UUweSe0s3](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JPIASNUJGwD23UUweSe0s3) No painting skills needed – this is all about **play, creativity, and connection**. What to expect * **Canvas painting corner** We’ll provide canvases and basic acrylics. You can: * Follow a simple prompt (e.g. “paint your perfect Sunday”) * Or just freestyle and see what happens * **Board game tables** * Join a group already playing * Or start your own table and we’ll help others join in * From light, easy games to more strategic ones – you can: * **Chilled, boho atmosphere** Think cozy lights, relaxed music, and a mix of people who are open to meeting new faces in a low-pressure way. Who is this for? * You enjoy **creative stuff** but don’t want a serious “art class” * You like **games** but also want space to chat and laugh * You’re new in town or just want to **expand your social circle** Come alone or with a friend – you’ll be mixed into small groups so no one sits alone. Practical info * **Optional to bring:** * Your favourite board game (if you have one) * An apron or old shirt if you’re a messy painter **You don’t need to be “good” at painting or games.** Just come as you are, unplug a bit, paint, play, and meet kind people. ​ Photos and short videos may be taken during the event. Let the host know if you prefer not to be in them. Tickets are non refundable. ​ Want more events like this? Join our WhatsApp community to stay updated: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/DaGFCvKs6iu62pftk5cotM?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DaGFCvKs6iu62pftk5cotM?mode=gi_t)

This is an in-person meeting. At this meeting you will get answers to depression and anxiety. Find out the source of them and how to get rid of them. Did you know that unwanted emotions like anxiety, depression, unhappiness, loneliness, hopelessness, anger, fear, or feelings of irritation don’t just fall on you for no reason. They are not random occurrences that simply happen to people's minds. They are definitely not due to a chemical imbalance in your brain from some nebulous chemical reaction "by chance". Your negative emotions are the symptoms of the painful experiences that you have which are not healed, and which are still affecting you. The effects of these painful experiences are exacerbated by the pressures or difficulties of the other problems in your life. Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is created by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation of Central Ohio and Church of Scientology of Central Ohio.

If you enjoy knitting, crocheting, working with yarn, this is the group for you. Meet new friends, bring your projects, learn from others.
We normally meet a few times a month during the week from 6-8pm. We will occasionally meet on weekends during daytime hours.

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

This month's prompt concerns the idea of the “warrior philosopher” (seemed appropriate in these times)--that is someone whose understanding of violence, power, and justice is forged through direct experience of war. We are looking at Major General Smedley D. Butler, a highly decorated U.S. Marine raised in a Quaker (pacifist) tradition who later became a prominent critic of American militarism (there is a wonderful biography of Gen. Butler called "Gangsters of Capitalism") Butler's argument in *War Is a Racket* (1935): that many U.S. interventions were driven less by national defense than by corporate and financial interests, with Butler portraying himself as an enforcer for business and Wall Street. We can consider the moral ambiguity of his insider critique—whether complicity strengthens or undermines credibility and also consider some of the concrete reforms he proposed (e.g., “conscript” capital before soldiers, restrict the military to coastal defense, and have only those who fight decide on war). Butler’s life arc clearly changed from pacifist upbringing to warrior to antiwar crusader—and asks whether true understanding of peace requires firsthand knowledge of war, and what that implies about the cost of suffering. So do we need to suffer to understand suffering? Do we have to experience war to appreciate peace? As one more question: in the movie "A Few Good Men" Jack Nicholson's character says that "you have the luxury of not knowing what I know" so do most of us go through life oblivious to real violence and suffering? See you at Drunken Philosophy!