Philosopher's Cafe

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Monday, October 27th, 2014
7:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Vancouver Island University's popular Philosopher's Cafe is back for another season. Do you love an intelligent and passionate discussion about topical issues and life's deep questions? 

Everyone is welcome to attend this community drop-in forum that promotes discussion and friendly debate. Held at Mrs. Riches restaurant in downtown Nanaimo, the format for the Philosopher's Cafe features a speaker who delivers a 10-minute talk on a provocative subject and then the floor opens for 50 minutes of general discussion.

Bring a friend and join the conversation, or just sit back and listen. Upcoming topics include:

Father and Families (Oct. 27)

Not so long ago, a father's job was to bring home a pay cheque, fix things and discipline the kids. Families have changed, and parenting roles are not as clear as they once were. How has fatherhood shifted in recent generations? What roles do fathers play in families and in society? What do you think of when you think of "father"?

Join Nanaimo counsellor Natalie Luchtmeyer for this interesting discussion. She is completed a Master's degree in Child & Youth Care and her research is based on the Social Construction of Fathers with a specific focus on gendered masculinity and the evolution of fathers in our culture.

Community (Nov. 17)

What does "community" mean to urban dwellers? In contrast to the car-dominated thinking from the 1960s (suburbs, malls) we now see a return to earlier forms of urban design in an attempt to recreate a friendlier, more connected urban experience. Can design foster a sense of connection and belonging? Do we really want to know our neighbours?

Dr. Pamela Shaw, a faculty member in VIU's Geography program, facilitates this discussion. Her books include A Field Guide to Communication and Boxed In: Searching for the Public Good in Urban Planning.