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Philosophy Night (In Person & Online)

  • Peterson's Place 395 Adams St Oakland, CA, 94610 United States (map)

This Month's Topic: Fiction. People have been fascinated by fiction since time immemorial. Dive into discussion this philosophy night as we discuss the purpose of fiction and how it is shaping society, for better and for worse.

Conversation Leaders: Charlotte & Anders

Host: Michelle & Anders

In Person: Peterson Place (Inside). Located near Lake Merrittl.

Online: Middle Circle via Zoom. A link will be sent to you before the event.

Schedule:

In Person: Folks are welcome to arrive after 6:30 pm. Our conversation will start at 7pm and will end at 9 pm.

Online: Bring your own food and drinks to our discussion that starts at 7 pm PT online. We'll end by 9 pm PT.

Introduction to Topic & Suggested Preparation for Discussion:(Folks are always welcome to join the conversation no matter how much prework has been completed):

Ursula Leguin’s famous book award speech (6 mins)

“Now, more than ever, we need writers who know the difference between production of a market commodity and the practice of an art.”

TEDEd: Are We Living in A Simulation? (4 mins)

Is our reality a detailed computer simulation? And how can we know for sure?

NPR Article on how storytelling is used in Inuit parenting:

“For thousands of years, the Inuit have relied on an ancient tool with an ingenious twist: ‘We use storytelling to discipline,’ Jaw says.”

What is Philosophy Night?: Middle Circle's monthly philosophy night creates a place for friends or strangers to dig into the topics that mean the most in our lives. Each gathering is hosted and facilitated by Middle Circle community members and centers on an age-old philosophical question. There is always food, beer & wine, and non-alcoholic beverages available.

Cost: Please plan to contribute $10-20 to Middle Circle to support hosting the gathering. You can donate at the event, right now through Venmo (@middlecircle), through PayPal's Charitable Giving Portal, through your works giving program, or while signing-up below. Donations are tax deductible. Donating is important to Middle Circle's vitality however no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

What If I Haven't Studied Philosophy?: You don't need to be well versed in philosophy to participate. Philosophy literally means love of wisdom. All that's needed is an interest in having a great conversation about a meaningful topic with good company.

***Note this event is listed as private but the information is sharable. Feel free to share this invitation with friends and acquaintances that you think would like to participate!***

Earlier Event: June 20
Philosophy Night (In Person & Online)
Later Event: August 6
National Night Out Block Party