GRP PHIL1 Philosophical Discussion

Philosophical Discussion

We meet on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday from 10.00-12.00.

Venue: Victoria Park Bowling Club

Inactive: July, August.

Why Philosophy?

Philosophy might seem a subject too arcane to warrant much attention. Nothing could be further from the truth. So what is it and why is it as important as ever? We know of no comprehensive definition. But it's true to say that it covers everything to do with the study of man in his environment. Questions such as: Who are we? Where did we come from? Where are we going? Why? What can we know and how certain is that knowledge? How should we try to live? Achieving a definitive answer to most of these problems may be beyond us but despite that much of significance is to be found in the struggle to try.

Philosophy in the European tradition had its origins in Ancient Greece about 400 BCE. From those beginnings, and their subsequent flowerings, has evolved our current world with its Politics, Natural Sciences, Arts, Music and Technology. The study of Philosophy helps us to think more clearly, to think more critically, and thus to understand this world better. In an ever more complex environment these widely applicable skills are more useful than ever.

We are one of the longest standing groups with a current membership of around 40. The attendance at most meetings is 20 or so. The first hour usually comprises a presentation in some form. The subject might be a particular topic, for example 'Ethics and Morality'; or it might be the works of some particular Philosopher or School of Philosophy. At 11am we take a coffee break. Afterwards a round table discussion based on the presentation takes place. Little except the coffee break is certain and the leaders are always anxious to foster the maximum participation. We like to think we are a group of equals always open to helpful suggestions.