How Did We Get Here?: Philosophy

In this evening’s program, we’ll look at some of the major ways in which the concept of philosophy has evolved over the centuries. In doing so, we’ll trace some of the important ways in which philosophers have understood the subject-matter of their discipline. And we’ll examine how, from very early on, philosophers have been especially self-conscious of the history of philosophy, in a way that is unique from other sciences. Learn more & RSVP here.

Continue reading

DoubleTree by Hilton Helena Downtown Supporting Philosophy in the Community in 2024

Thank you to John and the DoubleTree by Hilton Helena Downtown family for your support of our organization.  Your 2024 in-kind sponsorship will help to support our philosophy in the community activities through the provision of lodging for our out-of-town guest speakers.

Continue reading

How Did We Get Here?: Democracy

Our “How Did We Get Here?” events take us on a tour of some neglected and forgotten paths of intellectual history, asking “How Did We Get Here?” for important philosophical, scientific, and cultural concepts like dignity, free will, science, and the nation. In this gathering we’ll explore the intellectual lineage of democracy with Professor Stephen Forrest. Learn more & RSVP here!

Continue reading

How Did We Get Here?: Religion

What is (a) religion? What are religions for? Whom are they for? And conversely, if someone is “spiritual but not religious” (or simply not religious), what exactly is it that they aren’t? In this evening’s program, we explored some of the ways that the concept of “religion” has evolved and radically changed over time, along with the related concepts of spirituality and atheism. And we considered some of the social, political, and historical factors which have spurred changes in dominant and popular notions of religion, without necessarily reducing the domain of religion to merely those other factors. Access phots & resources here!

Continue reading

Visions & Voices Roundtable at the Holter

Run in conjunction with the Visions and Voices: A Figural Show exhibition at the Holter Museum of Art, this roundtable is an invitation to think with models, artists, and fellow philosophers about art and the human body, figure drawing, body empowerment, agency, censorship, wellness, and more. Learn more here!

Continue reading

2023 Merlin Mailer End-of-Year Newsletter

And just like that….it’s 2024. Whooo-wheee…what a ride it was! We’re so grateful and proud to be part of such a wonderful community and find ourselves continually inspired by each and every one of you, and all of the joy that philosophy brings! Here’s our Merlin Mailer year-in-review newsletter highlighting some of the happenings from 2023…and some of the things we have planned for you THIS YEAR, including your invite to come celebrate with us at On Broadway for our 10-year anniversary!! Check it out here!

Continue reading

Winter La Mesa – NO MORE SEATS AT THE TABLE/FULL

“Las Mesas” are intimate, salon-style gatherings where friends come together to explore philosophy and ideas over hand-crafted meals & wine. Each season, a different community member(s) will host a “La Mesa” dinner at their house, opening up their home for community members to gather and enjoy the fun of philosophy, the beauty of rich and meaningful conversation, and the joy of good food & friends (old and new). Our Winter La Mesa will take place on Friday, March 8th and will be hosted by Marie Z. Bourgeois & Ross P. Nelson. Reserve your seats here!

Continue reading