Each group (c.4-8 people) typically meets on a fortnightly basis for about an hour. There's a short thinking task before each session (an article, podcast or video) relating to key concepts/questions that are discussed in the session (e.g. What should we do when a friend betrays our trust? How can we communicate more effectively? Can any aspect of us survive when our bodies die?). Each session, facilitated by a trained expert, follows the participant-led 'Community of Enquiry' approach. This established method creates an atmosphere that's respectful, relaxed and inclusive, also developing the habits of better listening, speaking, thinking and empathy. There's no writing and the main measure of success is the pleasure of fascinating, formative dialogue, sparking further questioning.
Our popular Variety course typically explores questions from the following different areas, often via the insights of a famous philosopher and there's also flexibility for the group to explore ideas that are of particular interest to them: Parents Sample questions include:
Does Western culture still pressure us to become parents?
How should parents talk about gender with their children?
How far should parenthood shape personal identity?
Relationships Sample questions include:
How do I get better at understanding what my partner is actually saying?
Is monogamy good for us?
Do we really want friends who tell us the truth?
Well-being Sample questions include:
Can clear thinking tame anxiety?
Is forgiving others necessary for our own peace of mind?
Does the idea of individual happiness actually make sense?
Meaning This group will dive into some of the age-old philosophical questions in an accessible and informed way. Sample questions include:
Is purpose something to discover or create?
Does your brain explain the essence of you?
Is democracy overrated?
Children Children tend to show more curiosity than adults (before school gets in the way...). Philosophy for Children (P4C) is an internationally respected educational movement that has repeatedly shown benefits in engagement, thinking and attainment. Our P4C group is available to children between the ages of 8-12. Sample questions include: