What we’re about
Socrates Cafés are gatherings around the world where people from different backgrounds get together and exchange thoughtful ideas and experiences while embracing the Socratic Method; the idea that we learn more when we question, and question with others.
Although this may be considered a "philosophical" group, there are no rules as to what is discussed. Those attending decide upon the questions of the night. Usually, the topics revolve around social concerns, moral issues, and the first principles of things.
Rules:
1.) Interrogate ideas, not people.
2.) No yelling or personal attacks directed towards other members.
3.) Employ the Socratic Method when possible.
4.) Allow everyone a chance to speak, and avoid monopolizing the discussion.
5.) Two questions discussed per meeting.
6.) One hour per question, with a 15-minute break in between.
7.) Clean-up after yourself if you eat anything.
8.) Help return the tables and chairs to their original locations before leaving.
9.) Groups should be between 4-8 people.
10.) Vacate the Panera and church no later than 9pm.
11.) *Optional*: Adopt a “Round Robin” style discussion to assure everyone gets to speak at least once.
Linked below is a tutorial on how to write a philosophic question. There is also a list of discussion questions we have discussed in past meetings. Feel free to use these documents when formulating your own questions:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/11D2qcG69nyrt496SlVqx1Y1KAXL5_xjaFpVZH5Y8Mnc/edit?usp=sharing
