About us
Welcome to this discussion group for the introspective and those that enjoy pondering the inponderables. We hope to plunder the depths of life's questions and pursue the elusive meaning of existence. If you enjoy delving into the profound aspects of human experience and engaging in thoughtful conversations that go beyond small talk, then this group could be right up your street (literally or metaphorically)!
We are an informal, friendly gathering of individuals passionate about considering some of the head scratchers that have captivated thinkers throughout history. Whether you're a seasoned philosopher or simply someone with a curious mind and an open heart, you are most welcome to join our discussions. No prior knowledge of philosophical schools of thought or famous philosophers is required – all you need is a willingness to listen attentively and contribute respectfully to the conversation, be that with your own questions, or perhaps your own insights.
Our meetups are held online, allowing us to connect with like-minded individuals from around the globe, should they be available and happy to listen to a primarily British accent. While the group was set up with a focus on the wonderful folk of Exeter, we encourage participants from all corners of the world to join us, as our virtual setting knows no geographical bounds. Who knows? You might even forge connections with fellow philosophy enthusiasts in your own local community! Currently the meetups will be in English only, but if enough demands are made, we can consider getting closed captions for attendees with other language requirements.
So, if you're ready to embark on a journey of intellectual exploration and engage in stimulating, open-minded discussions, come and join us. We look forward to welcoming you, whether you're a regular participant or a first-time attendee. Each session is a unique experience, and we value the fresh perspectives and insights that every individual brings to the table.
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Want to help support the ongoing running costs of the groups, but don't know how? Don't worry, I've got you covered. ;) I've created a low cost way to contribute to help keep the lights on at BuyMeACoffee/Book.
Thank you very much. <3
Upcoming events
5
Film Club: Blade Runner
·OnlineOnlineIn a rain-soaked future of neon towers, artificial people, corporate gods, and trench coats with suspiciously good staying power, Blade Runner asks questions that still feel uncomfortably close to home. What makes a life count? Who gets treated as disposable? Can emotion be manufactured, freedom programmed, or memory trusted? Beneath its smoky streets and synth-soaked atmosphere, the film opens up a world of inequality, justice, identity, mortality, and longing — where the line between human and non-human begins to look less like a wall and more like a very blurry smudge on a malfunctioning screen.
This session will explore Blade Runner through a philosophical lens, considering how the film invites us to think about what it means to be human in a world shaped by technology, power, desire, and exclusion. We will reflect on empathy, personhood, artificial life, exploitation, freedom, death, urban alienation, and the fragile stories we tell about who we are. Rather than looking for one “correct” interpretation, the aim is to open up a shared conversation about the film’s tensions: between creator and creation, memory and reality, control and resistance, seeing and understanding, survival and dignity.
No prior philosophical qualification required - just curiosity, a willingness to listen, and an openness to multiple ways of knowing.
The meetup sessions often consists of the following:
- Cheery welcomes to familiar faces and those that feel like chatting.
- A presentation about the topic, lasts between 15-25 minutes (more or less). This is a way to provide some fundamentals.
- Open floor to people that put up their hands to contribute their thoughts, should they want to.
- A teary farewell as the clock announces a sad completion of the session; well-wishing until we all meet again.
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Alright folks! I want to give a little disclaimer - I’m not claiming to be an expert on the topics we’ll be discussing. My aim is to create a judgment-free zone where attendees can share thoughts and experiences openly.
Let’s approach our conversations with open minds and a sense of curiosity, knowing that we each bring unique backgrounds and perspectives. Please feel encouraged to express yourself in ways that reflect who you are, and let’s all keep in mind that our words carry meaning for those around us. The intention of the meetup is to learn from one another, so if anyone feels uncomfortable or misunderstood at any point, please don’t hesitate to speak up. This way, we can address things together and make sure everyone feels valued and included.
The goal is to explore ideas collaboratively, without promoting any particular viewpoint. We may not find simple answers to the questions we face, but by approaching them with empathy, respect, and inclusivity, we can gain new insights and work towards positive change.
Love our discussions? Show your support with a book or cup of coffee! Visit BuyMeACoffee (https://buymeacoffee.com/imperfectlycurious) to help fuel our passion for philosophy and books. Every contribution helps cover the costs of hosting, reading, and sharing ideas together.
48 attendees
September book club | From Silicon Valley Hippies to the AI Era
·OnlineOnlineHow did the technology that once loomed as a cold, dehumanising bureaucratic tool in the 1960s somehow become marketed as the ultimate vehicle for personal liberation, community, and the future of artificial intelligence?
Join us online via Google Meet as we explore Fred Turner’s classic book, From Counterculture to Cyberculture: Stewart Brand, the Whole Earth Network, and the Rise of Digital Utopianism. We will dissect how a specific, anti-political wing of the 1960s commune movement actively went on to shape modern Silicon Valley tech culture. This history provides a crucial lens for today's AI era: by examining why we mistakenly treat technological systems as inherently democratic or "living," we can better understand the corporate storytelling, data mining, and institutional structures hiding behind today's "smart" machines.
To ensure a deep, lively, and highly collaborative debate, it is strongly advised that all attendees read the book ahead of time. Second-hand copies are widely available online for under £10. If you want a great head start or a companion overview, attendees are also highly encouraged to listen to this excellent YouTube interview with the author, Fred Turner, on The Dig podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42XtL2NRFp4.
Pull up a screen, grab your copy, and join the conversation!1 attendee
Past events
84
Group links
Members
2,488
