This Month's Topic: When Convictions Collide: Faith, Values, Politics, and Law
As political and moral convictions pull us in different directions, how do we sustain a shared democratic life? This philosophy night conversation explores media influence, civil discourse, reconciliation, and the idea that patriotism may mean listening, restraint, and coexistence across deep disagreement. A thoughtful conversation for those who believe living together is harder — and more important — than winning.
Conversation Leader(s): Rick and Kate
Host: Tayo is hosting at their place in Oakland for the locals. Online: If you are joining online, you can do that via Zoom. A link will be sent to you after registration and before the event.
Schedule:
In Person: Folks are welcome to arrive after 6:30 pm. A shared conversation will start at 7pm. Food and drinks will be provided.
Online: Bring your own food and drinks to our discussion that starts at 7 pm PT online.
Introduction to Topic & Suggested Preparation for Discussion:(Folks are always welcome to join the conversation no matter how much prework has been completed):
Affective Polarization in Comparative Perspective: Fomenting dislike of political opponentIvo Bantel; PhD Candidate at the Department of Political Science, UZH View video and transcript 14 mins.
Jonathan Haidt Explains How Social Media Drives PolarizationJonathan is a social psychologist and coauthor of the “Coddling of the American Mind.” View or read transcript here 17 mins.
New study pinpoints key factor fueling American polarization. Watch here 5:43 mins.
David Brooks: America needs a mass movement, and the country needs it now.
View here David begins at 2:04 and plays 6 mins.
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!***