Philosophy Café

Held online via Zoom. Facilitated by Peter Whitfield

Next Philosophy Café is on Friday 21 November 2025

Scroll down for more information on this weeks' topic.

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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. 

  • 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.

Session Times:

7pm London (Friday)
7pm Sydney (Friday) / 8am London (Friday morning) 

Friday 21 November 2025: Resilience - with Sarah Mane

The Three Elements of Resilience

1. Returning - Abhyāsa       

Resilience begins with returning - not forcing or striving, but gently coming back to what is steady and true within ourselves
•    Returning again and again
•    Steady, consistent inner practice
•    Without struggle
•    Coming back to clarity, truth, and centre
Key idea: Resilience is the steadfast practice of returning

2. Resolution - Saṅkalpa


The quiet turning point. A decision that aligns us with what is true and removes what no longer belongs
•    A clear inner resolution
•    “To bring into proper form”
•    The moment alternatives fall away
•    Acting from inner truth, not from habit
Key distinction: Choice prepares. Decision transforms

3. Resonance - Satsaṅga


We become shaped by whatever we stay near
•    “Good company” or “company of truth”
•    The influences, environments, thoughts, and relationships that tune us
•    Supportive conditions that steady and align our inner life
Key idea: When resonance is supportive, returning becomes natural