Date

Saturday 13th July 2024. 2.30pm until 4.30pm

Venue

The Cheviot Centre, Padgepool Place, Wooler, Northumberland, NE71 6BL

Fee

£14 [or pay what you can afford]

Description

It was the demise of the Western Roman Empire and the formation and evolution of the Abrahamic Religions that brought about the transition from Classical antiquity to the Middle Ages. In this course we will explore the thought of the last great pagan philosopher of antiquity Plotinus; the founder of Neoplatonism, and the first great Christian philosopher and theologian St. Augustine of Hippo.

Booking

To book a place on this course, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you to eventbrite, or email darrenharper.esq@gmail.com

The End of Antiquity

End of the Middle Ages: Ockham and the Transition to the Renaissance

Date

Friday 19th July 2024. 10am until 12noon

Venue

Abbot Hall Social Centre, Dowker's Lane, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4DN

Fee

£14 [or pay what you can afford]

Description

Embark on a compelling exploration as we navigate the challenges and changes in the late medieval period, witnessing the decline of Scholasticism and the ascent of nominalism. Uncover the life and works of William of Ockham, delving into the profound impact of nominalism on philosophy and theology. Engage in stimulating discussions on Ockham's legacy and his pivotal role in shaping the intellectual climate, exploring the seeds of Renaissance thought. The half-day course invites participants to delve into Ockham's worldview, contemplating the transition from medieval to Renaissance thought and its enduring echoes in the modern era.

Booking

To book a place on this course, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you to eventbrite, or email darrenharper.esq@gmail.com

Date

Saturday 20th July 2024. 10am until 12noon

Venue

Morton Manor Community Centre, Wigton Road, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA2 6JP

Fee

£14 [or pay what you can afford]

Description

Embark on a journey into the heart of African Philosophy with this half-day course on Ubuntu. We’ll explore the principles of interconnectedness and community that define Ubuntu philosophy. Through engaging discussions and reflective activities, we’ll consider the ethical foundations of Ubuntu, its practical applications in daily life, and its potential to inspire a more harmonious and interconnected world.

Booking

To book a place on this course, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you to eventbrite, or email darrenharper.esq@gmail.com

African Philosophy: Ubuntu

Simone de Beauvoir: Existential Freedom and Feminist Inquiry

Date

Saturday 20th July 2024. 2pm until 4pm

Venue

Penrith Methodist Church, Wordsworth Street, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 7QY

Fee

£14 [or pay what you can afford]

Description

Embark on an intellectual journey into the profound philosophy of Simone de Beauvoir in this half-day course. Uncover the essence of existential freedom and feminist inquiry, exploring the challenges she confronted in her quest for gender equality. Engage in dynamic discussions and creative activities, discovering the enduring relevance of de Beauvoir's ideas in the complex landscape of contemporary society. Join us for an exploration of existential empowerment, inspiring a deeper understanding of personal freedom and its implications in the 21st century.

Booking

To book a place on this course, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you to eventbrite, or email darrenharper.esq@gmail.com

Date

Thursday 25th July 2024. 10am until 12noon

Venue

Jesmond Library, St George's Terrace, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 2DL

Fee

£14 [or pay what you can afford]

Description

How does existentialism challenge societal norms? In what ways can we find meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe? Through lively discussions and insightful analysis, we will delve into the concepts of individual freedom, responsibility, and the profound search for existential meaning. Uncover new perspectives and engage in stimulating dialogue in this enriching journey of philosophical discovery.

Booking

To book a place on this course, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you to eventbrite, or email darrenharper.esq@gmail.com

Global Philosophy: Existentialism and Freedom

Practicing Temperance: Finding Balance on the Path to Fulfilment [day course]

Date

Saturday 27th July 2024. 10am until 3pm

Venue

Dilston Physic Garden, Corbridge, Northumberland, NE45 5QZ

Fee

£35 [or pay what you can afford]

Description

Step into a day of exploration and self-discovery, where we invite you to embrace the concept of temperance, a path to balance and fulfilment. Join a nurturing space to discuss and reflect on finding equilibrium in various aspects of life. Journey with historical figure Confucius and then delve into the wisdom of Daoism, as we explore Zhuang Zhou’s story of ‘The Empty Boat’. Engage in guided meditations and mindful exercises to practice temperance. Together, let's uncover the enduring principles that lead to a harmonious and fulfilling life.

Booking

To book a place on this discussion group, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you to eventbrite, or email darrenharper.esq@gmail.com

The Value of Art: Philosophical Perspectives [two-day summer school]

Date

Monday 29th & Tuesday 30th July 2024. 10am until 4pm.

Venue

Guildford Institute, Ward Street, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4LH

Fees

£76 | Concessions £73 | Members £67

Description

Ever pondered the emotional impact of art or its evolving significance in the age of technology? On this two-day summer school, we will delve into these questions through the lenses of Aristotle, Kant, Walter Benjamin and Susan Sontag. Explore the cathartic power of art on Day One and unravel the complexities of reproducibility and sensory engagement on Day Two. Engage in thoughtful discussions, analyse artworks, and gain insights into the diverse philosophies shaping our understanding of the value of art.

This two-day course will include morning and afternoon refreshments, as well as a vegetarian lunch.

Booking

To book a place on this course, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you directly to the relevant page of the Guildford Institute's website, or you can ring the Guildford Institute on 01483 562142.

Embracing Compassion: Heartful Living on the Path to Fulfilment [day course]

Date

Saturday 31st August 2024. 10am until 3pm

Venue

Dilston Physic Garden, Corbridge, Northumberland, NE45 5QZ

Fee

£40 [or pay what you can afford]

Description

Step into a nurturing exploration of compassion, where each moment unfurls like a lotus. Join a circle of seekers and discover the transformative power of compassion on personal and collective well-being. Immerse yourself in the wisdom of Thich Nhat Hanh, a modern sage, as well as the Jataka Tale of Prince Vessantara. Through meditation, contemplative walks and creative expressions, we'll navigate the art of heartful living. This journey invites you to deepen your connection with compassion and embrace fulfilment with an open heart.

Booking

To book a place on this discussion group, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you to eventbrite, or email darrenharper.esq@gmail.com

Exploring Truth and Colonialism in Conrads Heart of Darkness [day course]

Date

Thursday 12th September 2024. 10.30am until 3.30pm

Venue

The Highgate Literary and Scientific Institution, 11 South Grove, Highgate, London N6 6BS

Fees

£65 | Members £55 | Concessions £20

Description

Join us for a one-day exploration of Joseph Conrad's renowned novel, Heart of Darkness, delving into themes of colonialism, narrative perspective, and truth. Engage with thought-provoking discussions on how Conrad's work portrays colonialism in Africa, the impact of narrative perspectives on storytelling, and the complexities of truth in literature. Additionally, we will examine Chinua Achebe’s critique in ‘An Image of Africa’, offering a comprehensive analysis of these compelling literary works.

Booking

To book a place on this course, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you directly to the relevant page of the HLSI's website, or you can ring the HLSI on 020 8340 3343.

Exploring Truth and Tradition in Chinua Achebe's Literary Worlds [day course]

Date

Saturday 14th September 2024. 10.30am until 3.30pm

Venue

The Highgate Literary and Scientific Institution, 11 South Grove, Highgate, London N6 6BS

Fees

£65 | Members £55 | Concessions £20

Description

Join us for a captivating one-day course delving into the timeless works of Chinua Achebe, focusing on Things Fall Apart and Arrow of God. Explore themes of tradition vs change, narrative perspective and truth, through engaging discussions and in-depth analysis. Discover the cultural richness and philosophical depth of Achebe’s storytelling, as we unravel the complexities of colonialism, tradition, and personal struggles within Igbo society. Perfect for adult lifelong learners seeking intellectual stimulation and literary enlightenment.

Booking

To book a place on this course, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you directly to the relevant page of the HLSI's website, or you can ring the HLSI on 020 8340 3343.

Global Philosophy: Existentialism and Freedom [one-day course]

Date

Tuesday 17th September 2024. 10am until 3pm.

Venue

Guildford Institute, Ward Street, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4LH

Fees

£42.50 | Concessions £40 | Members £35

Description

How does existentialism challenge societal norms? In what ways can we find meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe? Through lively discussions and insightful analysis, we will delve into the concepts of individual freedom, responsibility, and the profound search for existential meaning. Uncover new perspectives and engage in stimulating dialogue in this enriching journey of philosophical discovery.

N.B. There will be a 1-hour break for lunch.

Booking

To book a place on this course, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you directly to the relevant page of the Guildford Institute's website, or you can ring the Guildford Institute on 01483 562142.

Cultivating Humility: A Journey Towards Fulfilment [day course]

Date

Saturday 28th September 2024. 10am until 3pm

Venue

Dilston Physic Garden, Corbridge, Northumberland, NE45 5QZ

Fee

£40 [or pay what you can afford]

Description

Embark upon a nurturing exploration of humility, where each step is an invitation to self-discovery. Join a circle of seekers as we unravel the essence of humility through the life of Mahatma Gandhi and the Zen story ‘Nan-in and the Tea Cup'. Reflect in the labyrinth's embrace, engage in a collaborative art venture, and discover the transformative journey towards fulfilment. This comprehensive day course weaves diverse perspectives and personal narratives, fostering a deep connection between humility and the path to inner fulfilment.

Booking

To book a place on this discussion group, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you to eventbrite, or email darrenharper.esq@gmail.com

Embracing Forgiveness: Liberating the Soul on the Path to Fulfilment [day course]

Date

Saturday 26th October 2024. 10am until 3pm

Venue

Dilston Physic Garden, Corbridge, Northumberland, NE45 5QZ

Fee

£40 [or pay what you can afford]

Description

Step into a nurturing exploration of forgiveness, a journey of liberation and healing. Join a circle of seekers as we unravel the transformative power of forgiveness through Nelson Mandela's legacy and the Old Testament tale of ‘Joseph and His Brothers’. Meditate, reflect by the pond, engage in a forgiveness ceremony, and discover the profound connection between forgiveness and the path to inner fulfilment. This comprehensive day course weaves diverse perspectives and personal narratives, fostering a deep connection between forgiveness and the journey towards fulfilment.

Booking

To book a place on this discussion group, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you to eventbrite, or email darrenharper.esq@gmail.com

Existential Explorations: The Philosophy and Literature of Simone de Beauvoir [day course]

Date

Saturday 16th November 2024. 10.30am until 3.30pm

Venue

The Highgate Literary and Scientific Institution, 11 South Grove, Highgate, London N6 6BS

Fees

£65 | Members £55 | Concessions £20

Description

Embark on a day of intellectual exploration into the works of Simone de Beauvoir, the influential French writer and philosopher. This course intertwines her novel The Mandarins with her philosophical treatise The Ethics of Ambiguity. We will delve into themes of authenticity and selfhood, ethical responsibility, and the inherent ambiguity and uncertainty of human existence, as we engage in insightful discussions and critical analysis.

Booking

To book a place on this course, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you directly to the relevant page of the HLSI's website, or you can ring the HLSI on 020 8340 3343.

Existential Explorations: The Philosophy and Literature of Jean-Paul Sartre [day course]

Date

Sunday 17th November 2024. 10.30am until 3.30pm

Venue

The Highgate Literary and Scientific Institution, 11 South Grove, Highgate, London N6 6BS

Fees

£65 | Members £55 | Concessions £20

Description

Join us for a day of exploration into the philosophy and literature of Jean-Paul Sartre. Through an in-depth exploration of the novel Nausea and the lecture Existentialism & Humanism, we will delve into existentialist themes of freedom, responsibility, and authenticity. Discover applications of Sartre’s ideas in everyday life through immersive discussions and activities. Engage in thought-provoking conversations and self-reflection in a welcoming and intellectually stimulating environment.

Booking

To book a place on this course, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you directly to the relevant page of the HLSI's website, or you can ring the HLSI on 020 8340 3343.

Exploring Time and Mortality in James Joyce [one-day course]

Date

Tuesday 19th November 2024. 10am until 3pm.

Venue

Guildford Institute, Ward Street, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4LH

Fees

£42.50 | Concessions £40 | Members £35

Description

Join us for a journey into the profound themes of mortality and the passage of time as depicted in the works of James Joyce. In this immersive course, we will delve into two masterpieces of Joyce’s literature: the captivating chapter ‘Hades’ from his magnum opus Ulysses and the poignant short story ‘An Encounter’ from his short story collection Dubliners.

N.B. There will be a 1-hour break for lunch.

Booking

To book a place on this course, you can either use the 'Book' button to take you directly to the relevant page of the Guildford Institute's website, or you can ring the Guildford Institute on 01483 562142.