Welcome to Philosophy In Pubs (PIP's), a Philosophy Club in the heart of the community. The club is informal and open to all. Its aim is simple: to allow people a space to express and discuss their ideas and thoughts, and to learn from each other in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
The idea of philosophical discussion groups taking place in a social setting is nothing new. The ancient Greeks often engaged in philosophical dialogue as part of their cultural pursuits, which enriched Greek life. Unfortunately, only the wealthiest citizens had the leisure time and education to take part. More recently in the cafés and bars of Paris a growing trend has been to devote a regular evening or daytime session to philosophical discussion. Likewise, there are reports of a similar trend beginning in the London café scene.
Thinking philosophically generally means thinking carefully and rationally. It means thinking, as much as one can, freely and independently – you could say it’s the opposite of a herd mentality. Most importantly, it means thinking with an open and fair mind. Philosophy helps you think for yourself – to see the difference between good thinking and bad. The general mode of thinking is mostly unimaginative and sloppy. It aims at impressing people. It hates to admit it might be wrong. Philosophical thinking is sharp, creative, and careful. It aims at finding out the truth rather than winning arguments.
Philosophy is challenging stuff. That is, it enquires into the most awkward and troublesome questions human beings can think about. Philosophy, in that sense, is fearless and daring. Philosophical thinkers, now, and in the past, have needed a certain amount of intellectual courage to practice it. However, people in general, are natural philosophers. Every time we wonder about things, about our lives, about the universe, we are thinking philosophically. It is out of that natural wonder and curiosity that philosophical questions arise. The challenge is to search for answers to those questions, but more importantly, in understanding the meaning of those questions.