What we’re about
Welcome to the Revenge of Philosophy (TROP) - a group of amateur philosophers dedicated to using the ancient method to ask the right questions about contemporary life. TROP is a semi-formal discussion group dedicated to a serious reading of major philosophical texts.
At a time of great civilizational complexity - from war to climate change, shifting demographics to the ascendancy of populist politics - our modern institutions and media may be insufficient to get to the root of the problems. Enter philosophy. Only by breaking down our problems into their logical component parts, establishing first principles, and arguing from correct premises - may we be able to accurately diagnose and address today's quandaries. Once thought lost to the dustbin of history, this is the 'revenge of philosophy' and its newfound usefulness in providing an intellectual construct through which to meet the moment.
During each session, we'll review a single writing of the great philosophical texts. From the Greek ancients to enlightenment thinkers including Locke and Kant, from the difficult Wittgenstein to the ontology of Heidegger, we'll engage with the foundational treatises that form the basis of modern thought and rationality. And apply their teachings to the societal issues of today.
What is epistemology in a "post-truth" world? Are universal ethics possible anymore in a hyper-polarized society? Are virtual worlds the same as physical worlds at a time of ascendant A.I. and the Metaverse? What is our obligation to foreign countries and just war amid shifting geopolitics?
These are some of the questions that we'll explore in TROP. Participants should have some background in philosophical understanding. While this group is for amateurs, a basic foundation in philosophy and the ability to make sense of a variety of philosophical texts without undue explanation of form in group is necessary.
The group meets for 2 hours once per month and a reading is required before each meeting which forms the basis of the group discussion.
