Philosophy Café

Held online via Zoom. Facilitated by Peter Whitfield

Friday the 15 March -  7pm Sydney time (8am UK time) & 7pm UK time (6am Saturday Sydney time)

Register to take part.

A weekly get together of like minded people, who want to engage or recharge their interest in the practical benefits of studying philosophy.

Free drop-in sessions on Zoom, no need to attend every week. You will need to register, please click here to register. 

  • Weekly topics taken from the philosophy courses with a focus on Practical Philosophy, and what works in ‘my’ life.

  • Breakout rooms are allocated to allow time to meet and discuss ideas in smaller groups

  • Participants are encouraged neither to accept nor reject ideas, but to keep an open mind to discover what might be useful. 

  • Next session
  • We will use the four principles of platonic dialogue.

 


Platonic dialogue

  1. Truth is the goal
  2. Be willing to be refuted
  3. Listen with full attention; give space to the other person, don’t monopolize the stage – everyone’s voice is important
  4. Ask questions

Peter Whitfield

Peter Whitfield has been teaching the introductory courses in Philosophy for over 30 years. His love of great stories and belief in an eternal wisdom that provides practical help to live life fully, truly and happily has helped thousands of students.

The Introductory Philosophy course has transformed so many lives and the Philosophy Café  is an opportunity for anyone, current students, past students, family or friends to come along and be inspired. 

With Peter’s facilitation, the Friday night Philosophy café promises to be a new, flourishing event. Come along, be a participant and Find Yourself, in good company.


Friday 15 March

Freedom Under Law, with Ian Mason
7pm Sydney time (8am UK time) & 7pm UK time (6am Saturday Sydney time)

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Join us this Friday at 7pm Sydney time (8am London time) & 7pm London time (6am Saturday Sydney time) It's truly remarkable how many exceptional and inspiring individuals graciously agree to share their insights at the Café.

If you have been impressed previously then this week is not to be missed. Ian has a brain the size of a planet and his eloquence is so beautifully reasoned and resonant that one could easily find oneself captivated by his words for multiple lifetimes. Ian will delve into the concept of "Freedom under Law" and challenge the notion that the law restricts our freedom. Are there distinctions between good and bad laws? What defines a good law? Does the law help me find inner peace? And does adherence to the law limit our freedom?

The common law system originated in a society strongly influenced and unified by Christian ethics. Key principles stemming from this include respect for the Rule of Law, Human Rights, and Democracy. Ian will explore the implications of these principles in today's increasingly secular world and invite discussion on their relevance.

Ian is a former Principal of the School of Philosophy and Economic Science, a retired barrister, and led the development of courses in Economics with Justice, demonstrating the impact of philosophical insights on understanding economic principles.

Ian has also been involved with organisations such as the Gaia Foundation and Wild Law UK, advocating for Earth Jurisprudence - an approach to law and governance fostering harmonious relations between humanity and nature. He has represented these ideas on global platforms, including the United Nations Dialogue on Harmony with Nature, and has authored numerous publications on the ethical dimensions of law, economics, and Earth Jurisprudence.

It might sound drab, but trust me, this will be one of those guaranteed inspirational, transformational evenings, or your money back…