Philosophy Discussion Series
What are we doing here? A series of discussions about the intersections between ancient and modern philosophy
In this six part discussion series we seek to foster a dialogue that brings together aspects of eastern and western philosophy. The objective is to develop a 21st Century philosophy that is informed by both the ancients and modern philosophy; one that is respectful of, yet freed from traditional constraints.
The discussions will be presented and facilitated by Dr Karl Smith, who started practicing yoga about the time that he commenced formal studies in western philosophy. For more than 20 years he has drawn on these two rather different traditions in his efforts to respond to the challenges of life in the modern world.
Like many modern yogis, Karl first turned to yoga in a quest for ancient insights that might help to explain, or correct, many of the things that are unsatisfactory about the world today. The authoritarian and disciplinarian tendencies of ancient traditions encountered along the way, however, lead to a deeper understanding of the riches and opportunities of the modern world.
These discussion will not seek any simple resolutions to life’s great questions. Instead, we will interrogate fundamental questions such as “Who am I?” “Who are we? and “How are we to live?” and explore some of the different ways that philosophers from different traditions -- both ancient and modern – have attempted to answer them.
There is no required reading, no homework and no assessment. There is no prior knowledge required either. All that is required is for you to come prepared to engage openly, critically and generously in ideas that might conflict with your beliefs. You need to be prepared to think differently, and to share your thoughts.
The series consists of 6 x 90 minute seminars, held weekly in the Blue Room at St Mark’s Church Hall, 250 George St, Fitzroy, on Wednesday evenings, 6.30–8 pm. Everyone who signs up for the full series will also receive a one hour one-on-one interview with Karl.
Cost: $ 90.00 full, $75 concession
$ 20.00 / $ 18.00 per session for drop-ins* (private interview not incl.)
* drop-ins will be accepted, but not encouraged – the aim of the series is for each week’s discussion to build on the preceding discussions. We will not have, or take time to revisit or review those earlier discussions in a way that would bring drop-ins up-to-speed.
