What we’re about
The purpose of this group is to discuss and attempt to reach some understanding of works of philosophy, and also of works of literature or the other arts that raise interesting and important philosophical questions and topics.
The group is open to anyone who has a serious interest in such topics and in the works that deal with them, regardless of how much or how little formal education they may already have in the area of philosophy.
It should be clearly understood, however, that the lack of prerequisites does not mean that the works we discuss do not need to be read with care and taken seriously. Philosophical discussion is not just a 'bull session' in which people sit around spouting ill-informed and ill-thought-out opinions, regardless of how little sense those opinions may make or how little knowledge or intelligence they may display. Philosophy is an attempt to think seriously, objectively, and rationally about matters of genuine importance to human life.
Before coming to a meeting, therefore, you should try to carefully and thoughtfully read the work we will be discussing, taking note of passages you found particularly interesting, puzzling or disturbing, so that you can make sure that those passages are discussed during the meeting. And when you come to the meeting, you should bring with you a copy of the work we will be discussing so that you will have it in front of you for reference during the discussion. If you do all of this, you may find that you will have something worthwhile to contribute to our discussions, and that philosophy has something worthwhile to contribute to your life.
