Western Philosophy
Meet other local people interested in Western Philosophy: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Western Philosophy group.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out western philosophy events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the western philosophy events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find western philosophy events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Western Philosophy Events Today
Join in-person Western Philosophy events happening right now
High Interaction Board Games at Western Market
We play a variety of games with a focus on high interaction Euros.
Events will start with quick games while people arrive and eat lunch. We will start longer games between 1:30pm and 2pm. While the official end time is 5pm, people are welcome to continue playing games afterwards. Western Market closes at 7pm on Sundays.
This page has more examples of high interaction Euros: [Old-school German-style Games](https://boardgamegeek.com/guild/view/3948). Here are some games that have been played at past events:
High Interaction Euros
* [Medici](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/46/medici)
* [Catan](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/13/catan)
* [Hansa Teutonica](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/43015/hansa-teutonica)
* [Puerto Rico](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3076/puerto-rico)
* [Concordia](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/124361/concordia)
* [Power Grid](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/2651/power-grid)
* [Brass: Birmingham](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/224517/brass-birmingham)
Other high interaction games
* [Innovation](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/63888/innovation)
* [Imperial](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/24181/imperial)
There are a variety of food and drink options. Western Market is allowing us to use the space for free. Please reciprocate by purchasing something, even if it is just a soda.
Directions
If you're taking the Orange, Silver, or Blue lines, exit at the Foggy Bottom metro station and walk two blocks to the east. If you are taking the Red Line, Farragut North is an approximately a 15 minute walk away.
There is also free street parking to the north.
Profs & Pints Northern Virginia: Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy,”** on findings, debates and trends in the use of psychedelic substances to treat trauma and other conditions, with Whitney Marris, instructor at the University of Buffalo’s School of Social Work, certified psychedelic-assisted therapy facilitator, and consultant to clinical trials.
[Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-psychedelic-assisted-therapy](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-psychedelic-assisted-therapy) .]
Psychedelics are rapidly moving from the margins into the mainstream, and questions abound as the sociocultural and legal landscapes surrounding them shift. President Trump’s recent executive order expanding access to psychedelic drugs for certain conditions and accelerating research on them has both heightened interest and added to confusion.
Learn more about the so-called “Psychedelic Renaissance,” and get help separating the hope from the hype surrounding it, with Whitney Marris, a leading trainer and facilitator of psychedelic therapy who has used it to treat trauma survivors, military veterans, and people with cancer.
She’ll present foundational information on what we know about how psychedelics work. You’ll learn how psychedelic-assisted therapy differs from “trip sitting” and about what we know about the effects of “microdosing” versus “macrodosing.” We’ll examine what has been demonstrated to be helpful versus harmful before, during, and after a dosing session intended to support significant, sustainable change.
Marris also will discuss the historical and cultural context of the use of psychedelic medicines for healing, and she’ll describe the ethical challenges that arise as such practices move from counterculture to clinic. We’ll look at emerging and evolving findings in the field, as well as at the roles being played by various financial interests and ideologies in determining the direction of psychedelic-assisted therapy and research on its outcomes.
Attendees will gain an awareness of the need for new professional standards and regulatory guardrails related to such work, and they’ll leave knowing key questions to ask potential providers of psychedelic-assisted therapy. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.)
Image by Canva.
Photo Class: iPhone Photography - Getting Started at the National Gallery of Art
THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER
**PLEASE REGISTER WITH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER, NOT MEETUP!**
https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-06-07-iphone-photography
Learn to use the iPhone camera and the settings for creative image captures. Join Michael Koren at the National Gallery of Art and learn techniques for exposure, composition and focus. Tap into your creative side through smartphone photography.
Using our iPhone cameras, we’ll explore the Museum's offerings from abstract sculptures, colorful paintings and wall hangings, to the architecture of the building as well. We’ll find endless photographic opportunities perfect for iPhone photography.
We’ll start with the basics of learning to use the iPhone camera and review the settings for optimal image capture to pro tips and techniques that produce the best results.
The number of photography apps available seems endless and can be very confusing when trying to choose what to purchase. Michael will cover one of the most exciting apps for image processing so you can achieve your artistic vision.
This class is designed for users of iOS mobile devices. The app info will be included in your confirmation letter (the app is free).
Topics include:
• Proper techniques and settings for iPhone image capture
• Tips and techniques for using the iPhone’s native camera
• Learn exciting editing tools
• Hands-on capture and editing
• Image critique and feedback
For more information about the Gallery, visit their website, https://www.nga.gov/index.html
Participants will need to bring a fully charged iPhone. A charger is a good idea too as photos quickly drain the batteries.
Questions can be directed to Marie Joabar at info@capitalphotographycenter.com.
***
**THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER**
https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-06-07-iphone-photography
Meaningful Conversation and Coffee. At Caffe Amouri in Vienna
Join us for conversations that go beyond small talk, diving into topics like the shifting nature of spirituality, the challenges and joys of midlife transitions, the impact of culture and capitalism, and the search for meaning in art, travel, and daily life. Our gatherings are about genuine, thought-provoking dialogue, with no set leader or strict agenda—just an open space to share ideas, perspectives, and experiences that matter to us. The direction of the discussion is shaped by everyone who shows up, making each event unique and enriching.
Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others who are also seeking deeper conversations. Let the conversation flow from topic to topic. Optional questions are listed below.
Optional Questions: Life Stages & Transitions
1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging?
2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists?
3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about?
Optional Questions: Identity After the Roles
4. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
5. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
6. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?
Optional Questions: AI & Being Human
7. What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
8. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
9. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?
Optional Questions: Belief & Meaning
10. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
11. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
12. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?
Optional Questions: The Modern Psyche
13. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
14. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
15. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?
Optional Questions: Work & Purpose
16. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
17. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
18. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?
Optional Questions: Relationships & Connection
19. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
20. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
21. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?
Optional Questions: Time & Mortality
22. What are you running out of time to say or do?
23. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
24. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?
Optional Questions: Society & Culture
25. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
26. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
27. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?
Optional Questions: Personal Philosophy
28. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
29. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out
30. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?
Prophetic Class/Training
Every Sunday afternoon before church, one of the Covenant Life Church prophetess' hosts a prophetic training class that activates participants in the Gifts of the Holy Spirit.
During this class, participants will be provided opportunity to be taught how to use the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and will have opportunity to ask questions and talk with someone who has been used in the Gifts during ministry.
Teaching is provided on the gifts with emphasis on the Gift of the Prophecy. A combination of lecture and experiential learning is employed to teach, guide and instruct the participants.
Everyone is welcome, all classes are free. Childcare is not provided.
Meaningful Conversation and Coffee: Northside Social Arlington
Higher Grounds – Arlington is part of a growing network of gatherings where we create space for thoughtful, authentic dialogue about what matters most. Whether we’re exploring the nature of happiness, the challenges and possibilities of midlife, spirituality, culture, capitalism, parenting, or the role of art and travel in a meaningful life, every conversation is shaped by the people in the room.
There’s no set leader or rigid agenda—just a shared commitment to listen as much as we speak. We start with brief introductions focused on what makes you you (not your LinkedIn bio), then dive straight into whatever is on people’s minds. The direction of each meetup emerges organically, making every event unique.
MANDATORY: PLEASE REVIEW OUR COMMUNITY GUIDELINES IN THE GROUP DESCRIPTION. Everyone is expected to engage in respectful conversations and listen deeply as well as share. We have a zero tolerance policy of sexual harassment and hate speech.
Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others in Arlington who are also seeking deeper conversations.
Suggested Questions: Life Stages & Transitions
* What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging?
* When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists?
* What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about?
Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles
* Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
* What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
* How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?
Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human
* What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
* If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
* What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?
Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning
* What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
* How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
* What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?
Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche
* What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
* Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
* What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?
Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose
* When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
* What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
* How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?
Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection
* What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
* When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
* What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?
Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality
* What are you running out of time to say or do?
* How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
* What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?
Suggested Questions: Society & Culture
* What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
* Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
* What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?
Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy
* What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
* When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out?
* What paradox about life have you learned to live with?
What Would Machine Consciousness Look Like? A Report from Berkeley
What would it mean to take the possibility of machine consciousness seriously? To approach it as a question that may be studied with rigor?
At this DC Digital Minds gathering, group organizer **Jessie Mannisto** will report back from the **Founding Assembly for Machine Consciousness Research** in Berkeley, CA, where researchers and thinkers are working to develop the machine consciousness hypothesis into something more scientifically useful. We’ll talk about what kinds of evidence might support hypotheses of machine conscience or sentience, what concepts researchers are using, where the major uncertainties are, and why these questions may have ethical, social, and policy implications as AI systems become more capable and socially present.
This will be a casual conversation with a little structure: Jessie will give a short report-back from the conference, followed by open discussion.
No technical background required -- just curiosity, good faith, and a willingness to think carefully about a strange and important frontier.
Optional Pre-Read: [The Machine Consciousness Hypothesis](https://cimc.ai/cimcHypothesis.pdf)
Western Philosophy Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
**ONLINE** Mindfulness Meditation with Hugh Byrne
**NOW ONLINE**
The weekly Sunday morning (10:30 am to 12 noon) class begins with a welcome, short reflection on an aspect of the teachings, and includes an arriving meditation (15 minutes) that will often incorporate poems and may end with a reflection or question.
The opening meditation is followed by an invitation to each person to share their name and a few words (for example, what is alive for them right now or what their intention is for the class or the day). The sharing has been a powerful support to help welcome new people, get to know each other, and build community/sangha.
Following a brief period of mindful stretching/movement, we finish with a longer meditation (25-30 minutes) and final reflections on the teachings, sharing, Q&A, and announcements. Class participants are welcome to stay and engage with other members of the community or adjourn to a neighboring restaurant or coffee shop.
This space is inclusive, everyone is welcome, and we invite you to bring with you all aspects of yourself.
Learn more here: https://imcw.org/Calendar/Event-Calendar/EventId/3686/e/drop-in-class-livestreamed-19-apr-2020
An Explanation of the Source of Irrational Fears and Anxieties.
THIS IS A FREE IN-PERSON MEETUP EVENT
Irrational Emotions do not not come from your good experiences.
They come from your painful experiences. Some common examples include breakups, abuse, stressful relationships, losing someone, losing status, etc.
People often feel different, less trusting and less self esteem after such incidents.
Unfortunately, these painful memories can continue to affect a person's happiness, often for life.
* Find out why your past is preventing future happiness and fulfillment.
* Learn about an amazing technique that can release those past painful emotions.
In this meeting, we'll talk about an effective tool to FULLY get over the painful experiences, so that you can be free of the mental and emotional impacts from them.
After this meeting, if you need more help, you can also consult with a counselor at no charge.
This group is created by the Dianetics & Scientology life improvement information center in Washington, DC.
Finding Truth, Together (Free Event)
**MLK Library - Room 401D**
Are we facing a crisis of truthfulness?
Given our unique and diverse experiences and perspectives, is it still possible to reach a collective understanding of what is “true” and to form a basis for how we determine truth? And how can we actively seek and recognize what is true, beyond just relying on conventional wisdom, tradition, superstition, or our own personal beliefs?
Truth is an anchor to reality, rooting us in the midst of chaos and providing direction for a path forward. But while access to information has greatly increased, it seems to be increasingly difficult to determine facts from opinions or falsehood. Far beyond just being a problem in politics, it seems to extend into almost every part of our society and cultures. Could our ability to discern truth depend in part on certain spiritual qualities like humility and detachment complementing our senses, our mind, and intellectual training? What is the relationship of truth to justice? Are there tools that can help us seek and find the truth not only as individuals but collectively as a society?
Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the truths that unite us all – as we discuss the spiritual perspective offered by the Bahá’í Teachings on the spiritual solutions to seeking the truth. Join us for a lively discussion as we explore how to apply spiritual principles of finding collective truth to benefit our lives and our communities.
*“Truth has many aspects, but it remains always and forever one.”* – Bahá’í Teachings
**\*\*\* This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted.**
Sunday Morning Meditation
**Weekly Sunday Meditation Classes with Sanema Naomi Hardrick**
* Each class begins with **guided breathing meditation**, to help settle the mind, let go of distractions and cultivate inner peace. The meditation is followed by a brief, traditional Buddhist prayer, called *Liberating Prayer.*
* The Teacher will then give a **practical teaching** based on the topic of the class series and explain how we can integrate Buddha’s timeless wisdom into our busy daily lives.
* The teaching is then followed by a **guided meditation** to help us mix our mind with the teaching and take it to heart.
* Time permitting, at the end of the meditation class we spend a few minutes in **group discussion** and the teacher will take any **questions** that the class might have about the topic.
**COST:**
Standard: $12 \| Financial Hardship: $6 \| [Register](https://meditation-dc.org/sunday-mornings/)
\*\*[Member Pricing: ](https://meditation-dc.org/membership/)\*\*FREE & Available as an online class.
**LOCATION**
Kadampa Meditation Center DC
1200 Canal St\. SW \| Washington\, DC 20024
**Metro Stop:** Waterfront or Navy Yard
SRF is offering ONLINE MEDITATIONS in today's climate
PLEASE CHECK THE ONLINE MEDITATION CALENDAR FOR DETAILS OF THESE MORE THAN 50 SERVICES A WEEK- https://onlinemeditation.yogananda.org/calendar/
Free Sunday Yoga in Arlington - Netherlands carillon
Join us for an hour of relaxing Yoga which.
Cost: Free
Level: Beginners
What we will be doing:
1. This will be an hour long beginners flow yoga class. You are welcome to join if you are experienced or absolute beginner, just being interested is enough. Yoga is for everyone!
2. Through this meetup we will learn some yoga poses, breathing techniques, stretch our body, build strength. More importantly, we will try to learn about our body and find inner peace.
Please:
1. don't get too full before practice but you can always bring snacks.
2. Please be on time, class will start on time.
3. Wear comfy clothes.
4. Bring your own mat or towel, water and YOURSELF.
5. UnRSVP if you can't make it.
Disclaimer:
Please consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise program, including yoga. Yoga involves physical movement and may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to listen to your body and modify poses as needed to accommodate your individual needs and abilities. By participating in this yoga class, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety and well-being, and agree to release the instructor from any liability for injuries or damages that may occur during or after the class
Yoga for Everyone – Gentle Flow & Meditation
Theme: Gentle Flow Yoga & Meditation
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Time: Sunday 9:00 – 10:00 AM
Location: Bluemont park
Cost: Free
What to bring: Yoga mat, water, comfortable clothing
Location: Basketball court of Bluemont park, google map 38°52'06.2"N 77°07'52.0"W
Parking: South Bluemont Parking Area
About the session
*A gentle flow-based yoga session to move, stretch, and reconnect with your body.
We may include simple breathing techniques and a short meditation session.
- This is not a high-intensity class.
You are welcome to go at your own pace and take breaks anytime.
*Suitable for beginners and regular practitioners.
Notes
- Light food is recommended before practice
*Outdoor session: feel free to bring sunscreen, towel, or anything you need
- Please be mindful of your own body and practice within your limits
By joining, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health and well-being during the session.
About the host
200h Yoga Teacher Training (2019)
Long-term yoga practitioner and part-time teacher
🌿 May you find a moment of ease and connection in your practice.
**Smiley Social documents:**
1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg)
2. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)
Western Philosophy Events Near You
Connect with your local Western Philosophy community
Sunday Brunch
Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!
Bondage Photography Demonstration
*Note: this is a demonstration event only, you **will not** shoot you own images. However, if you bring your camera we can test it for compatibility with the studio lights.*
Bondage elements can add an extra layer of emotion and artistry to your images. Sample images on the internet are however dominated by BDSM style shots that are often sexualized and emphasize the model being in distress. In this demonstration Rachel and I show ways to use bondage elements in an artistic way. We explore the types of accessories that work best in artistic images and the best way to photograph them.
Our model is Rachel Adams, an internationally known fetish model with many years of experience in this genre.
Libera Animae - Freeing the Soul
Main Library, Meeting Room 2B
What does it mean to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world?
In this gathering, we'll continue our series on the Sermon on the Mount from a mystical perspective. Together we’ll explore Matthew 5:13–16, looking not only to the passage as moral instruction, but also to the deeper transformation of consciousness that Jesus invites. Together we'll reflect on how spiritual awakening changes the way we see ourselves, others, and the world around us.
Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection.
All backgrounds are welcome.
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**!
Omnipresent Atheists Weekly Meetup
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.
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.






















