Philosophy is not just an abstract pursuit - it is a way of living.
Modern analytical philosophy often focuses solely on theories about reality, morality, and culture. Even “practical philosophy” spends more time on theory than the actual practices of our lives. Ancient philosophers, however, understood philosophy as a practice for life itself. They saw philosophers as therapists, doctors, or guides. Socrates likened himself to a “midwife,” practicing particular skills in order to help others give birth to wisdom and a deeper understanding of themselves. For them, philosophy was about transformation.
Philosophical Practices is about bringing philosophy to life, developing skills that are both enjoyable and transformational. These sessions combine ancient traditions like meditation and dialogos with modern practices such as authentic relating. They will also feature talks that share the philosophy and science supporting these arts. Each activity is designed to cultivate skills that enhance clarity and connectivity with the world, ourselves, and each other - making us better people and better philosophers.
In this final session, we will build on everything we have learned before, giving us all an opportunity to deepen our practices and discuss how these practices can be brought into our lives beyond the course.
Dates and location
The sessions are taking place across four Tuesday evenings in May and June. All events will be held in person at The Birmingham and Midland Institute.
What is Practice? - Tuesday 20 May, 6.30 - 9.30 pm
Philia: Authentic Relating - Tuesday 27 May, 6.30 - 9.30 pm
Sophia: Collective Wisdom - Tuesday 10 June, 6.30 - 9.30 pm
Philosophy: Bringing It Together - Tuesday 17 June, 6.30 - 9.30 pm
Ticketing
Buy tickets on our Eventbrite: Philosophical Practices Course Eventbrite
Where possible, we would encourage participants to attend all four sessions to build confidence and knowledge in engaging with the full range of transformative practices. The cost of attending all four sessions is £40. To register for the full course, please purchase the 'full course' option for the session on 20th May and we will register you for all following sessions.
Alternatively, single events can be attended at a cost of £15 per event.