Philosophy in Pubs is a philosophy club in the heart of the community; a club that's informal and open to all. Its aims are simple: to allow people a space to express and discuss their ideas and thoughts and to learn from each other in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. No academic or formal background is required - just a passion for philosophy and wonder.
The idea of philosophical discussion groups taking place in a social setting is nothing new. The ancient Greeks often engaged in philosophical dialogue as part of their cultural pursuits, which enriched Greek life. Unfortunately, only the wealthiest citizens had the leisure time and education to take part. More recently in the cafes and bars of Paris we see regular evening or daytime sessions of philosophical discussion. Likewise, a similar trend occurs in the London cafe scene.
But now Liverpool has more community philosophy groups than any other city in the world, asking big questions:
"What is art?"
"Do we really have free will?"
"Does God exist?"
"How come words have meaning?"
"What is the self?"
"Should reason or emotion rule?"
"What is justice?"
"Why do we do what we do?"
A Community of Enquiry
PIPs (Philosophy in Pubs) practises philosophy using the Community of Enquiry method. This method allows for and encourages the participation of everyone involved (or you can just listen if you wish). Members of the group propose, choose and present topics for enquiry. A presentation need involve no more than a few words on a sheet of A4 or a poem, an object, a sound, just something to stimulate the enquiry. It is from within the group enquiry that any philosophical insight or understanding, if any, is gained.
Enquires are facilitated by someone chosen from the group, usually a group member who has experience or training in facilitation although everyone, if they wish, is encouraged to gain experience at facilitation.
Respect for others and their opinions is a fundamental requirement of the group as it encourages people to put forward their ideas without fear of ridicule, intimidation or hidden agendas.
The Benefits
Thinking philosophically generally means thinking carefully and rationally. It means thinking, as much as one can, freely and independently - especially with an open and fair mind. Philosophy helps you think for yourself - to see the difference between good thinking and bad. The general mode of thinking is often unimaginative and sloppy. It aims at impressing people. It hates to admit it might be wrong. Philosophical thinking is sharp, creative and careful. it aims at finding out the truth rather than winning arguments.
- Develop clear thinking skills via reasoned argument
- Acquire philosophical knowledge
- Gain wider perspectives and confidence in self-expression
- Acquire better listening skills
- Enrich vocabulary
- Develop emotional intelligence
- Increase self-realisation plus social and personal skills
- Develop and appreciate friendships
The Challenges
Philosophy is challenging stuff. That is, it enquires into the most awkward and troublesome questions human being can ask. Philosophy, in this sense, is fearless and daring. Philosophical thinkers, now and in the past, have needed a certain amount of intellectual courage to practise it. However, people in general are natural philosophers. Every time we wonder about things, about the universe, we are thinking philosophically. It is out of that natural wonder and curiosity that philosophical questions arise. it is important, however, that we understand the meaning of these questions before we take up the challenge of searching for answers to them.
No comments:
Post a Comment