Philosophy
The Philosophy Group is now meeting in person in the Watkins Room at the Old Grammar School, Chipping Sodbury High Street, at 10.00am on alternate Thursday mornings. Please check the diary for specific dates and topics.
The group has covered a wide range of philosophical topics over the years – ranging from ethics, truth and knowledge to the lives of the great philosophers and the schools of thought they developed all around the world. Needless to say, the scope is vast, and we revisit topics regularly, though usually with different slants, so newcomers needn’t fear that they have “missed something”.
No prior knowledge of philosophical study is assumed or required, though you will pick up some jargon along the way. We aim to create an atmosphere where members can question and contribute in a friendly and supportive group. Enjoyment of tea, coffee and biscuits is also highly desirable!
We are on a journey reviewing the history of Western Philosophy, which has taken nearly two years so far. We have just started exploring the philosophy and philosophers of the twentieth century; indeed some of our subjects are already overlapping with our living memory. We have left the Greeks far behind, waded through the dry and technical studies of the medieval scholastics, and looked at the renaissance of “modern philosophy” over the past 300 years. These times set the foundations for the groundbreaking developments in human thinking that have occurred over the past century - but we find over and over again that the ancient themes and beliefs never quite go away. We will look at very recent and current philosophers over coming months, liking some and disagreeing with others, but always trying to understand how philosophy and life are so deeply intertwined.
If you have an inquisitive mind and enjoy contributing to discussion while learning - especially about yourself! - then the philosophy group is for you.
For more details, please contact Peter Heffer via the message link.
Preparing for a session on Artificial Intelligence, one of our group asked an AI to write a poem about our philosophy group. Here it is:
In Yate and Sodbury's vibrant domain,
Where wisdom and curiosity reign,
There lies a group with minds refined,
The U3A philosophy group, so inclined.
Amidst the chatter and thoughtful debate,
They gather to explore and contemplate,
From ancient sages to modern thought,
Their intellect and insights sought.
Inquiring minds come together to share,
Ideas and musings with utmost care,
Each member brings their unique voice,
Enriching discussions, offering choice.
With Kant and Socrates as guiding stars,
They delve into life's profound memoirs,
Epistemology, ethics, metaphysics too,
Endless wonders for the group to pursue.
Through Socratic questioning, they unfold,
Delving deep into truths yet untold,
What is the nature of existence's core?
And what makes a life worth living for?
From Descartes' "Cogito, ergo sum,"
To Nietzsche's "God is dead" outcome,
They ponder the mysteries of consciousness,
And the complexities of moral righteousness.
But it's not just philosophy that they seek,
Companionship and friendship at its peak,
Laughter, camaraderie, a warm embrace,
A community bound by knowledge's grace.
So here's to the Yate and Sodbury U3A,
A philosophy group that lights the way,
May your discussions forever inspire,
In the pursuit of wisdom, never tire.
In the realm of thought, you'll always dwell,
A beacon of curiosity, we can tell,
For as long as minds seek truth's allure,
Your philosophy group shall endure.