Philosophy   

"Let him that would move the world first move himself." Socrates helped others examine their lives, and thinking, by asking questions. Participants in Socrates & More examine their ideas, opinions and dogmas on a variety of topics.

Dialogue is stimulated by TEDx talks, participant's suggestions and current events. Differing ideas, and opinions are expected and welcome. No topic/subject is off-limits. Dialogue is dynamic and always respectful. By participating in this experience, we have the opportunity to become more thoughtful, tolerant and rational.

In his essay, Creative Democracy, philosopher John Dewey wrote, "I am inclined to believe that the heart and final guarantee of democracy is in free gatherings of neighbors on the street corner to discuss back and forth what is read in uncensored news of the day, and in gatherings of friends, to converse freely with one another. Intolerance, abuse, calling of names because of differences of opinion about religion or politics or business, as well as because of differences of race, color, wealth or degree of culture are treason to the democratic way of life."

Note: Out of fairness to all participants and due to the nature of this course, the instructor asks that those who choose to register commit to and attend the majority of classes. Any class absence should be communicated to the instructor.

Limited to 12 participants, this group will choose books that have something to say, make us think, and promote a spirited discussion. This class is intended to challenge with the goal of understanding others and ideas better.

This semester's books:

January 23 & February 27- The Heat Will Kill You First: Life and Death on a Scorched Planet, Jeff Goodell

 

March 26- Preparing for War: The Extremist History of White Christian Nationalism - and What Comes Next, Bradley Onishi

 

April 23- The Secret Life of Groceries: The Dark Miracle of the American Supermarket, Benjamin Lorr

 

May 23- Poverty, by America;  Matthew Desmond

Five Element is a philosophy that has endured over 2000 years that can be applied in our daily lives. It shows us a path to a living in harmony within a day, a season and a lifetime. Our body's natural ability to heal itself is best done when we are in balance in our body and with nature. We will also cover the basic interaction and associated emotions of each of the Five Elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. Your instructor is a retired acupuncturist.

Language is a powerful tool for directing and manifesting energy into form. You can change your life in a matter of moments by changing your thoughts and the words you speak. Words are powerful, so powerful that they create our reality. Words can be used to build or destroy, to heal or to harm. Enroll in this class and learn how to be more conscious of the thoughts you think and the words you speak.