(Image from Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District website)

Well, now that a seemingly real socialist has been elected mayor of the biggest city in the US, we might stop to ask ourselves what that means for the future.  Not only for New York, but also for the Demoncratic party, the Republican party, and other assorted third parties with big ideas.  To be perfectly honest, I have not dug deep into Mamdani's platform (yet), but there do seem to be echoes of the early 20th century "Sewer Socialists" who made Milwaukee one of the best cities to live in at the time.
https://www.wisconsinhistory.org/Records/Article/CS428

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqIkIVyik5w (55:26)

Obviously, I'm not the only or the first person to see the connections, although not everyone is optimistic: https://www.slowboring.com/p/learning-from-milwaukees-sewer-socialists

I'm gratified to see Mamdani apparently hoping to follow in the footsteps of those Midwestern public servants who used government to serve the people, building up public infrastructure and the baseline of quality of life.  We can see his platform outlined on this campaign page: https://www.zohranfornyc.com/platform

But now that he's won, what will he be able to do?  While many people support the initiatives, there will be conflict in enacting them, which ones get precedence, which ones can wait, etc.  You can blithely predict that you'll simply collect more taxes from the most moneyed among your constituency, but how will you get a jump on closing the loopholes that they will surely find?  Affordable housing has been a real thorn in the side of America for ... ever, really.  But as the country urbanized it became more pressing to house greater numbers of people in a smaller area, or give them means of traveling to the places they need to go, be they work, school, shopping destinations or back home.  Housing projects do not have the best reputation among Americans, but what else can we do?  Contrary to what some right-wing kneejerks would say, the Milwaukee Sewer Socialists did not focus on controlling business to generate revenue, but cracked down on corruption in the government itself and its dealings with infrastructure.  What will Mamdani's relationship to NYC's business be?  His platform does mention labor protections and stimulus for small business and small owners.  Will he manage to achieve at least some of his stated goals, without complete blockage from the opposition?  Will there be a left-wing paradise established in NYC, a utopia for some, a dystopia for those who don't know the difference between socialism and communism (and fascism, let's just say it)?
https://www.gocomics.com/chipbok/2025/11/11

https://www.gocomics.com/eric-allie/2025/11/08

https://www.gocomics.com/garyvarvel/2025/11/05

https://www.gocomics.com/stevekelley/2025/11/12

Sewer Socialism

Meet passionate, engaged people who are supporting causes, leading projects — or just starting out with an idea they want to explore.

Whether you're already active or looking for inspiration, this is a space for connection, insight, and encouragement.

Join a casual mingle at The Lobby Room at Kitsilano Community Centre — with snacks, meaningful conversation, and free parking available.

We’ll break into small groups to share:
• What you’re working on — or dreaming of starting
• The goals you’re aiming for
• Challenges you’re facing
• Recent wins worth celebrating

We’re using Buddytree to power this event — it allows:
✔️ You to see who else is attending ahead of time
✔️ Us to limit RSVPs 
✔️ Everyone to easily stay connected afterward

***Limited spots available***

Hosted by Glen Brauer and Bev McIntosh.

In association with Meaningful World:
https://meaningfulworld.org

Changemakers in Action

Videos:

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PndlcttJkgM (10:37)

2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AdBwca6-sSw&amp;amp;t=52s (16:35)

3.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dr14lscGkFA (6:46)

4.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksfF9ZNsupE (17:54)

5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uj5QQySCF7s (7:49)


Reading (Optional):

1. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/02/us/politics/trump-drug-cartels-war.html

2. https://www.economist.com/united-states/2025/10/13/the-new-war-on-drugs

3. https://www.economist.com/united-states/2025/10/23/donald-trump-has-turned-the-war-on-drugs-into-a-real-war

4. https://www.economist.com/briefing/2025/10/16/the-traffickers-are-winning-the-war-on-drugs

5. https://www.theatlantic.com/national-security/archive/2025/10/caribbean-drug-boat-strikes/684481/


Spanish (Optional):

1. https://elpais.com/internacional/2025-10-24/estados-unidos-anuncia-un-nuevo-ataque-con-seis-muertos-contra-una-narcolancha-en-el-caribe.html

2. https://elpais.com/america-colombia/2025-10-24/geopolitica-del-miedo-la-presencia-militar-estadounidense-sitia-latinoamerica.html

3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FFT4dVHgWs&amp;amp;t=1451s  (33:22)

4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aenC3WEciHs (40:38)

5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAG6NeAZZm8 (40:43)


Italian (Optional): 

1. https://www.internazionale.it/notizie/2025/09/09/trump-guerra-alla-droga-venezuela

2.https://lavocedinewyork.com/news/2025/10/24/trump-manda-una-portaerei-davanti-al-venezuela-dopo-il-decimo-attacco-contro-presunti-narcos/

3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1gtZWQqLj0  (13:15)


Questions:

1. What are the root causes of the drug trade in the Pacific and Caribbean regions, and how can they be addressed?

2. What are the human costs of the war on drugs, including violence, displacement, and human rights abuses?

3. How can international cooperation and intelligence sharing be improved to combat drug trafficking?

4. What alternative approaches to drug policy have been successful in other regions or countries?

5. How can countries in the Pacific and Caribbean regions improve cooperation and coordination on drug control efforts?

6. How has the war on drugs impacts indigenous communities in the Pacific and Caribbean regions?

7. What alternative economic opportunities can be developed to reduce dependence on the drug trade?


In Collaboration with Ceit Hustedde (Longtime Member of Buddytree) 

Fishing Expeditions in the Pacific and Caribbean Sea

Spoiler: no, no he is not.  But who will he be after this historically rhyming victory?

Videos:
Plans:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2aeuEUccuE (10:52)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjVAnZwdq5s (5:13)

Victory speech
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOQT_4A1eb8 (23:22)

Mamdani vs Trump
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibxMTuSEgt0 (22:05)

Future of the Democratic Party
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibxMTuSEgt0 (14:35)

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/voters-cast-ballots-in-elections-that-could-signal-future-of-u-s-politics (3:14)

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/voters-sent-washington-a-message-to-put-everyday-americans-first-jeffries-says (6:46)

History's rhyme
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqIkIVyik5w (55:26)


Reading
https://www.zohranfornyc.com/platform

(Francisco's recommendations, I haven't read them, can't vouch for them)

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/04/opinion/mayor-mamdani-new-york-election.html


https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/06/opinion/democrats-mamdani-sherrill-spanberger.html



https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/2025/11/democrats-cost-of-living-affordability-platform/684847/


https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/2025/11/democrats-election-problem/684854/

https://www.economist.com/leaders/2025/11/05/democrats-risk-drawing-the-wrong-lessons-from-one-good-day


https://www.economist.com/united-states/2025/11/05/a-night-of-big-wins-for-the-democrats

https://www.economist.com/leaders/2025/10/30/the-battle-for-new-york

https://www.economist.com/united-states/2025/08/24/zohran-mamdani-is-promising-lots-of-things-he-cant-actually-do

Questions:

1. What do you understand about the conditions that led to Mamdani's election?

2. Do you see his platform as viable?  Are there any problems he ignores, or problems he has created to campaign on?

3. Is it fair to compare early 21st century NYC to early 20th century Milwaukee?  What added challenged might Mamdani face in enacting his policies?  Does he have any advantages that the Sewer Socialists did not?

4. Mamdani's opponents have tried to make him the "real" face of the Democratic Party.  What does his victory mean for the future of the party?  Will there be meaningful changes in the overall policies and platforms, in the type of candidates that are supported and encouraged to run for office?

5. Mamdani is not the only significant winner in recent elections.  Do you see enough similarities in the other Democratic victories to truly point to changes in voters' expectations and politians' plans?

6. Would Democratic Socialists be better off running as their own party rather than as a subparty of the Democrats?  Would they be able to build enough voter support to be a national force, or will they be limited to city and state races?

7. Will future Republican candidates campaign differently based on the results of this past November 4th?  What changes do you see happening in that party?

Is Zohran Mamdani The Return Of Emil Seidel?

Videos:

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6xyT6XUFz0 (3:32)
2.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTNacFxraoA (8:41)
3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O12vuDtVkw0  (16:39)
4.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25nHLC6UbD8  (10:21)
5.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HpQyXBney8 (3:36)
6.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0eEeYSo_bV8 (2:25)
7. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9pOQzujEgGY (3:33)
8. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QrPxxIiwIs (38:27)

Reading (Optional): 

1. https://www.economist.com/by-invitation/2025/06/17/as-the-un-turns-80-thant-myint-u-argues-it-should-be-retooled-for-a-less-internationalist-age

2. https://www.economist.com/international/2025/09/18/the-uns-grim-future

3. https://www.economist.com/by-invitation/2025/06/24/the-uns-dysfunction-undermines-global-security-argue-ban-ki-moon-and-helen-clark

4. https://www.economist.com/by-invitation/2025/06/24/the-uns-dysfunction-undermines-global-security-argue-ban-ki-moon-and-helen-clark

5. https://globalaffairs.org/commentary/analysis/un-turning-80-it-still-relevant

6. https://www.iisd.org/articles/explainer/unga80-what-un80-and-key-issues-watch


Spanish (Optional): 

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwo71aVKdYo  (24:15)

2. https://elpais.com/chile/2025-11-02/ochenta-anos-despues-el-multilateralismo-que-debemos-conducir.html

3.https://elpais.com/icon/2025-09-07/no-poder-dar-estos-servicios-es-un-crimen-dentro-de-la-onu-en-la-peor-crisis-de-su-historia.html


Italian (Optional):

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ywmx5m65o-U   (21:02)

2.https://lavocedinewyork.com/onu/2025/10/24/onu-a-80-anni-tra-applausi-autocritica-e-richieste-urgenti-di-riforma/

3.https://unipd-centrodirittiumani.it/it/notizie/guterres-presenta-liniziativa-un80-per-la-modernizzazione-dellonu


Questions:

1. What are the most significant achievements of the United Nations in its 80 years of existence?

2. What reforms are necessary to ensure the UN remains effective and relevant in addressing global challenges?

3. What role should the UN play in promoting sustainable development and addressing climate change?

4. How can the UN balance national sovereignty with collective security and human rights?

5. What are the most pressing global challenges facing the UN in the next 10-20 years?

6. How can the UN promote greater diversity and representation within its own institutions?

7. What metrics or indicators can be used to measure the UN's effectiveness in achieving its goals?


In Collaboration with Ceit Hustedde (Longtime Member of Buddytree)

The United Nations: Reform or Rupture?


There is a topic Good and Evil, but this is another step deeper into one side of it.

Here are the videos and discussion questions for this hangout:

An introduction
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AzNEG1GB-k (10:03)

JRR Tolkien and Evil
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjE94hbxjLI (10:53)

Evil human nature
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V-lLwQ_F8ko (4:08)

Have we all become evil?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVl5kMXz1vA (33:50)

The famous banality of evil
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4la6DkldJyc (3:46)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LjAESuTW-U (8:20)

One woman stands against evil
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uCjUeNOGhgQ (17:39)

Reaction to "The Lucifer Effect" [Philip Zimbardo]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-4DwOauRGI (21:49)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJ3WlWM0lGc (Pt 2) (24:25)            

A little reading, if you like
https://onlysky.media/alee/tolkien-never-solved-the-problem-of-evil/

1.  Does evil really exist?  Could it just be an unavoidable conflict of needs?

2.  If you think evil does exist, how do you define it?  Are there people who are truly evil?

3.  Do you think you could avoid committing evil?  How can you be sure?

4.  What should we do, as a society, with those who commit evil acts?  Are they at the same level as those who commit "normal" crimes, or should there be a separate authority to deal with them?

5.  Is there an essence or spirit of evil that exists outside of the material world, or is the experience of evil dependent on consciousness/observation?

6.  Are only humans evil?  Why (not)?



Please remember to watch at least a few videos before you arrive since we’ll be discussing them when we begin.

Once the hangout begins, everyone will introduce each other and then take turns asking the provided questions in order to keep the discussion on topic.

Hangouts typically last 90 minutes, and once the hangout is over you will have the opportunity to add people to your buddytree to organize private hangouts and develop friendships.

As always, these hangouts provide the opportunity for a thoughtful, respectful and engaging discussion in a safe space where disrespectful behaviour is not tolerated.

The Problem Of Evil

Darker and darker are the evenings, but our thoughts remain bright in company and well-watered.  Ok, "watered" isn't exactly it, but the point is nobody is lacking anything to wet their whistle.  It's the last "normal" month of the year, if you can call any month that, and the time for our pet topics grows short.  What to consider, birth rates?  Transcendence?  Secular social justice?  Surely, you have your own ideas (yeah, yeah, I'll stop calling you Shirley).

See you at Taproom!

Sunday Drinks - Planning Session

Videos:

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mU9jpEpkAZY  (1:00:00)

2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mU9jpEpkAZY (13:39)

3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LV-ERIUK9jk (15:37)

4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXhpK_lhonA (6:14)

5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rpaCCJ82jI (3:15)

6: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gsnR5tb5alQ (13:27)

7: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXhpK_lhonA&amp;amp;t=137s (6:14)

8: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1jurgfMwMM (7:28)


Reading (Optional) : 

1: https://www.economist.com/graphic-detail/2025/10/09/which-countries-breed-nobel-laureates-and-which-import-them

2: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2024/10/nobel-prize-brand-history/680235/

3: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/06/world/europe/nobel-prize.html


Spanish (Optional):

1: https://elpais.com/ciencia/2025-08-06/seis-premios-nobel-alzan-la-voz-contra-trump-tardaremos-decadas-en-recuperarnos.html

2: https://elpais.com/internacional/2025-10-10/premio-nobel-de-la-paz.html

3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEirWq2_Nvg  (15:25)


Italian (Optional): 

1: https://www.corriere.it/esteri/25_ottobre_10/nobel-casa-bianca-contro-comitato-antepone-politica-pace-da2f6f59-cd01-4a22-915f-f6d625f26xlk.shtml

2: https://www.studenti.it/premio-nobel-quanti-sono-come-funziona-candidatura-assegnazione-dei-premi.html

3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JsUDaRGK_7g  (10:44)



Questions:


1. What is the significance of the Nobel Prizes in promoting scientific progress and literary excellence?

2. What are the implications of the under-representation of women and minorities among Nobel laureates?

3. Should the Nobel Prizes be awarded to teams or individuals, and what are the implications of this decision?

4. What are the strengths and weaknesses of the Nobel Prize selection process?

5. What common characteristics or traits do Noble laureates share, and how can these be fostered in others?

6: What are some notable controversies surrounding the Nobel Prizes, and how have they been addressed?

7: Should the Nobel Prizes be reformed, and if so, what changes would you propose?

8: How can the Nobel Prizes be used as a platform for promoting global understanding and cooperation?




The Nobel Prize: Past, Present, and Future

Everyone has a question that’s been on their mind — big or small, serious or lighthearted. At this special Meaningful Discussions evening, each person will bring one question to pose to the group. Together we’ll explore ideas, share perspectives, and discover what sparks our curiosity. Come ready to listen, reflect, and connect in thoughtful conversation.

As always, our format includes approximately 6 people per table, and we will be using tables within the same room that we use for our regular Tuesday Social Hour & Games night.


NEED INSPIRATION?

Here are some examples to get ideas flowing:

- What’s the most interesting location you’ve ever travelled?
- What is something you really want to do before you die?
- What is something you’re interested or passionate about?
- What gives you hope for the future?
- What is one thing you’d like to improve about yourself?
- What brings meaning to your life?

*Please note that there is no fee to attend but there are limited spots so you will need to RSVP on Buddytree.*

We are using Buddytree to manage the RSVPs because:
- people are much more likely to attend if they can see who else is coming
- it allows people to easily connect with each other after the event

Please arrive on time out of respect for your fellow attendees.

I look forward to seeing you there! :)


Glen Brauer
Founder, Meaningful World
https://meaningfulworld.org

Meaningful Discussions: Curiosity Night

Videos:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKK7wGAYP6k (14:12)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlin1W-qThs (12:49)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMyq1eMoYng (13:55)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rV5XUKVMPYA (7:08)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kYr8wdJLdo (7:57)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14u32XoAde0 (33:43)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTM4ix5epJM (7:22)

Questions:

1. Why do we use idioms?  How did they become part of language?

2. Do you know the origins of these idioms: bite the bullet
                                                                              under the weather
                                                                              face the music

3. What English idioms correspond to: a)When roosters lay eggs (Arabic)
                                                                         When a month has no Saturdays (Kurdish)
                                                                         When the snow turns red (Turkish)

                                                                      b)It's Hebrew to me (French)
                                                                          As if counting walnuts to me (Kurdish)

                                                                      c)Making a mountain out of hay (Persian)
                                                                          Making a dome out of a grain (Arabic)

4. What might these literally translated Czech idioms mean?
                Who hesitates does not eat
                Hunger has big eyes
                Who digs a pit for another falls in it themselves
                We [speak] of the wolf and the wolf is at the door
                Out of need good water from a puddle
                Work rushed little value

5. What idioms in your language, or other languages you know, do you find especially interesting?

Idioms, Set Phrases And Expressions

This is for those who have attended a Goal-Setting Session* in Buddytree and would like to join an accountability group that meets at intervals during the year (the frequency is whatever the group wants but so far it's approximately every 4 weeks). The intention for these sessions is to support each other with making progress with our goals. 

This sessions will include:

1. Review your goals, including your milestones and possible actions.
2. Reviewing and noting where you have made progress, and what has helped you make progress. 
3. Reviewing and noting where you haven't made progress, and reflecting on what's getting in the way. 
4- Sharing/exchanging tips for success on achieving goals (both from research and personal experience). This can include tips on mindsets, practices, systemic and environmental factors.
4- Sharing any progress updates, challenges, insights, and new learnings by group members. 
5- Declaring what we will do by the next meeting   

This is our second out of three accountability session. 

*If you would like to do (or re-do) a goal-setting session, please stay tuned. I will schedule another one for December or January.  

It will be held on Zoom so we have a chat feature and can share our screens if we wish. Please check the comments before the session to get the Zoom link. 

Hope to see you there! 

Accountability Group for Goal-Setters

Video:

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnUu_xjPIUo (2:37)

2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9khjT4dnFY (16:52)

3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QAV6TlVA9Q (8:05)

4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLiSLMQZzhg (28:25)

5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9WKxc-RxaA8 (28:30)

6. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gse0Su-iXmo (15:17)

7. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=luU9athBZWs (4:37)


Reading (Optional): 


1. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/08/trump-ukraine-russia-peace/683907/

2. https://www.economist.com/international/2025/08/26/the-wrong-way-to-end-a-war

3. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/25/opinion/ukraine-war-negotiations-trump.html


Spanish (Optional):

1. https://elpais.com/opinion/2025-08-22/ucrania-en-la-cuerda-floja.html

2. https://elpais.com/opinion/2024-08-26/como-acabara-la-guerra-de-ucrania.html

3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJMbvTcYm60 (2:37)

4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECR4XHxBNMA (19:09)


Italian (Optional):

1. https://www.fattinostri.it/la-guerra-in-ucraina-come-finira/

2. https://www.rsi.ch/info/mondo/Come-finir%C3%A0-l%E2%80%99incursione-ucraina--2230536.html

3. https://www.youtube.com/live/kZ_fk_UPMck (20:54)

4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymZEDV-vi4Q (14:17)



Questions:

Put yourself in President Trump's shoes.

1. Would you continue to be involved in seeking a resolution for this crisis, or would you cease all or most U.S. involvement?

2. Would you continue supplying weapons and munitions to Ukraine, even if paid for by the Europeans?

3. Would you impose restrictions on how those weapons are used?

4. Would you impose economic sanctions or tariffs on Russia's trade partners if it continued to refuse to engage in peace negotiations?

5. If there were peace negotiations, would you force Ukraine to give up any of its territory?

6. Would you give it security guarantees in return?

7. Would the guarantees include peacekeepers on the ground and, if yes, from what countries?

Additional questions

1. How would you provide economic support to Ukraine, considering potential long-term implications?

2. How would you involve NATO in the conflict, considering potential risks and benefits?

3. How would you maintain U.S. public support for involvement in the conflict, considering potential domestic political challenges?

                                                                                         Discussion questions by courtesy of Steve Srecko Bartl


What would you do about the war in Ukraine if you were POTUS?

There are two ways to go with this particular term, or maybe more, but we only spend a couple of hours on these things.  One kind of icon is the talented performer or composer, often tormented, often taken from us too soon.  We could list Cornell (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IuUDRU9-HRk), Winehouse (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUmZp8pR1uc), Staley (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fm72DPJCX58), Cobain (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hEMm7gxBYSc), Lennon, Hendrix, Joplin, Morrison and a long, long etcetera.  Some died through their own poor choices and some through accident.  At least one was a victim of murder (oh, artistic conspiracies, we'll see you another day).  How have these artists affected your life?  Does their music attract you in spite of their human failings - or do those add something extra?  Would they have achieved such legendary status if they had been able to continue developing their work, probably making a lot of things that did not please their fans as much as their early stuff?

The other icon is the voice that cries out for a better world.  Obviously, one need not be a musician to be this kind of icon, but in the 20th century they became a common sight/sound.  Cobain and Lennon could straddle both lists, while other activist or messaging icons have not had their lives cut short, living long and productive ones in quite a few cases.  Here we might include loudmouth Woody Guthrie (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jANuVKeYezs), preaching Pete Seeger (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8eK9ZXf-Ow), pacifist Joan Baez (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QLUDJlx5jEc), raging Zach de la Rocha (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=scyC9A6o_Ts), riotous Kathleen Hanna (the source of the title for "Smells Like Teen Spirit", apparently)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUYxV4rECt0.  Are my lists very US or Anglo-centric?  Yes, yes they are.  But we live in the worlds we live in, and only with difficulty and effort do we venture out of them.  I am vaguely aware of other countries' artists, making their mark as best they can: South African Miriam Makeba (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fqdcz0eYLSQ); Russian Pussy Riot (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oaZl12Z5P7g); Chileans Violeta Parra (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ov3tQ-RX3Jw) and Víctor Jara (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0X7QV1zB6Y).

It's easy in this day and age to idolize anyone with a platform, be it speaking, singing or image making.  We can argue about whether people use the platform responsibly or if we as fans are too generous in our admiration.  We cannot deny, however, that artists inspire.  They can inspire a fight, a change, or just a feeling that makes life worth living, if only for as long as the song lasts.

Musical Icons

Everyone is invited to say hello and whatnot.  Heck, you can start early if you want.  The link is good from publication, if I'm not mistaken (just don't change the day).

Mostly checking in, but we can talk about potential topics for the future.

Too bad I don't have a virtual Taproom.

Hello, Let's Have A Chat

Hey, I thought we were done with summer here!  I guess it's not really summer temperatures, but it certainly doesn't feel like October, when we should be wearing sweaters and running around with steaming pumpkin spice lattes.  Ok, it's just the first week.  Ooooooooook.

That said, Taproom has seasonal beers on tap, more for a certain central European festival than an American branded one.  But there's nothing wrong with a nice festbier or a märzen or even a regular old pilsner.  Hell, there's nothing wrong with a non-alcoholic beverage, despite appearances, since the object is to have a conversation, not a hangover.  

There are a couple of events coming up that might inspire talk: Halloween and scary family movies; pre-code movies and morality; nationality and belonging (hello, jet flyovers).  I'm sure you can think of some more.

See you at Taproom!

Here are the videos and discussion questions for this hangout:
https://buddytree.org/topic/fear-confidence

Please remember to watch at least a few videos before you arrive since we’ll be discussing them when we begin.

Once the hangout begins, everyone will introduce each other and then take turns asking the provided questions in order to keep the discussion on topic.

Hangouts typically last 90 minutes, and once the hangout is over you will have the opportunity to add people to your buddytree to organize private hangouts and develop friendships.

As always, these hangouts provide the opportunity for a thoughtful, respectful and engaging discussion in a safe space where disrespectful behaviour is not tolerated.

Fear & Confidence

Study upon study makes us doubt the connection between what we see and what others see, and often even the reality of what we think we see.  For the most part, we think we agree with others about what reality is, what our senses perceive, and differences are a matter of preference not of substance.  However, even preferences can be contentious, and not every possibility of perception comes together for everybody.
https://slate.com/technology/2025/08/psychology-research-perception-muller-lyer-illusion.html

https://www.amnh.org/explore/ology/brain/optical-illusions-and-how-they-work

https://slate.com/technology/2017/04/heres-why-people-saw-the-dress-differently.html

Even something as simple as color is not universally agreed on.  Excepting the colorblind, we all see the same shades on the color scale, but we do not group them in the same way.  Some people misunderstand that to mean that certain colors are "invisible" to people from other cultures or other times.  The hell, really?
https://blog.duolingo.com/color-words-around-the-world/

https://onlys.ky/why-did-the-color-violet-go-viral-after-1863/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omPGq_cu58Y

How much do you trust your perception of the world?  What makes you change your mind?  What do you dismiss as irrelevant or trickery?  Can the universe itself gaslight us?

Perception

Here are the videos and discussion questions for this hangout:
https://buddytree.org/topic/the-music-that-moves-us

Please remember to watch at least a few videos before you arrive since we’ll be discussing them when we begin.

Once the hangout begins, everyone will introduce each other and then take turns asking the provided questions in order to keep the discussion on topic.

Hangouts typically last 90 minutes, and once the hangout is over you will have the opportunity to add people to your buddytree to organize private hangouts and develop friendships.

As always, these hangouts provide the opportunity for a thoughtful, respectful and engaging discussion in a safe space where disrespectful behaviour is not tolerated.

The Music that Moves Us

This is for those who have attended a Goal-Setting Session* in Buddytree and would like to join an accountability group that meets at intervals during the year (the frequency is whatever the group wants but so far it's approximately every 4 weeks). The intention for these sessions is to support each other with making progress with our goals. 

These sessions will include:

1- some time to review your goals, adjust if needed, and ask any questions on the goal-setting process
2- sharing/exchanging tips for success on achieving goals throughout the session 
3- sharing how we are doing with our goals with the group
4- declaring what we will do by the next meeting   

Discussion may include:
a) where you've made progress and what helped you progress
b) where you hoped to make progress (but didn't) and what got in the way 
c) support if you wish to share/explore what's getting in your way and how to work around that
d) sharing what you want to commit to achieve by the next meeting

These sessions are open to anyone who has done a Buddytree goal-setting session. First-timers are welcome! 
*If you would like to do (or re-do) a goal-setting session, please indicate in the comments. I can schedule another one if a few people are interested. 

It will be held on Zoom so we have a chat feature and can share our screens if we wish. Please check the comments before the session to get the Zoom link. 

Hope to see you there! 

Accountability Group for Goal Setters

Accountability Group for 3-month Goal-Setters

So much for summer, the equinox is rapidly approaching.  Of course, so is Oktoberfest.  Always a silver lining, right?

There might be interruptions and distractions at Taproom, but we do have all week to think about topics.  Changing perspectives, created words, inspiring performers?  Can we refocus after suffering slings and arrows?

At least we know Taproom offers wide variety and normally enough chairs to accommodate us.

Nothing wrong with clinging to some certainty, is there?

Here are the videos and discussion questions for this hangout:
https://buddytree.org/topic/the-art-of-letting-go

Please remember to watch at least a few videos before you arrive since we’ll be discussing them when we begin.

Once the hangout begins, everyone will introduce each other and then take turns asking the provided questions in order to keep the discussion on topic.

Hangouts typically last 90 minutes, and once the hangout is over you will have the opportunity to add people to your buddytree to organize private hangouts and develop friendships.

As always, these hangouts provide the opportunity for a thoughtful, respectful and engaging discussion in a safe space where disrespectful behaviour is not tolerated.

The Art of Letting Go

Humans have always wanted to live in a perfect world, that's why we created religion.  Most of us don't really want to struggle each and every day.  We would all like things to just fall into place and run without a hitch and sail smoothly into the sunset.  Unfortunately, it never works out, at least not for very long.  We don't stop dreaming, though, and many groups have tried a practical experiment with perfect society, only to see it disappoint: https://www.ic.org/paradisenow/

Speaking of religion, theologians have long pondered the nature of perfection and the distance humanity is from it, generally concluding that the world simply can't be perfect and our best hope is the afterlife.  Very displeased with existence and reality, these people: https://catholicinsight.com/2024/06/25/the-uselessness-of-utopias/

Even those who put their trust in logic can be swayed to attempt their own brand of utopia.  Well, maybe it isn't quite logic, but some kind of instinctive correct behavior that government meddles with and blinds us to.  Needless to say, that also ends in failure, and at least in this case in tragedy: https://washingtonmonthly.com/2020/08/30/libertarians-took-control-of-this-small-town-it-didnt-end-well/

Is this just another example of paradox in our thinking?  Something like not tolerating intolerance?  Is the perfect world always hiding hell under its glossy surface?

Utopian Thinking

Videos:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybSTzcX0BFM (12:53) Rebecca Watson

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hV5Su2Mc5io (7:57) Mr Deity

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eeIxHqtB_B8 (3:27) Leo Susskind

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9Zz4hYuGdw&amp;t  (10:20) Leo Igwe

https://youtu.be/oQ1TJ7oUMHg (15:35) Atheist no longer humanist

https://youtu.be/aIscGATGnJc (7:54) Atheist vs Humanist

https://youtu.be/jnBGeoJsFOk (13:48) Atheism plus

https://youtu.be/Ai_1Dx8E0l0 (14:41) Richard Carrier (fragment)

Questions:
1. How do you define these terms: agnostic; atheist; humanist.

2. Do the terms agnostic and atheist deserve to have any moral value, or should they be limited to the amount of certainty one has regarding lack of deities?

3. Do you agree that the secular society offers more protection of religious freedom than a religious society?

4. What is your opinion of "Movement Atheism" - the Four Horsemen (Dawkins, Hitchens, Dennett, Harris), Atheism Plus, etc.?  Do nonbelievers need an organization akin to a church or house of worship?

5. Is it possible for believers to be humanists?  How can they reconcile their faith with the admission that one can be good without gods?

6. What has been your experience with agnostics vs. atheists vs. believers in terms of open-mindedness?  Have you noticed differences in civic engagement?

7. Where do you put yourself on the diagram of belief?

Agnostic Atheist Secular Humanist

Amazingly, we are at the end of August.  Yes, another summer has flown by while we were all having fun.  Is it time to get serious again, time to have deep, dark talks of philosophy and import?  Did we ever stop?

We examined behavior and manners last time, and that always has more to give, but maybe another angle.  We could take refuge in the arts, a profile in literature or music.  We could wallow in terror with whatever mess is unfolding in the news.  We could wander the cold halls of science.  Options are practically endless.

Whatever we decide, we'll have good drink and possibly snacks before us, opening the doors to our best decisions.  Or at least the most entertaining ones.

See you at Taproom!

Join An Upcoming Hangout

Sewer Socialism

Changemakers in Action

Fishing Expeditions in the Pacific and Caribbean Sea

Is Zohran Mamdani The Return Of Emil Seidel?

The United Nations: Reform or Rupture?

Recent Hangouts

The Problem Of Evil

Sunday Drinks - Planning Session

The Nobel Prize: Past, Present, and Future

Meaningful Discussions: Curiosity Night

Idioms, Set Phrases And Expressions

Accountability Group for Goal-Setters

What would you do about the war in Ukraine if you were POTUS?

Musical Icons

Hello, Let's Have A Chat

Sunday Drinks - Planning Session

Fear & Confidence

Perception

The Music that Moves Us

Accountability Group for Goal Setters

Accountability Group for 3-month Goal-Setters

Sunday Drinks - Planning Session

The Art of Letting Go

Utopian Thinking

Agnostic Atheist Secular Humanist

Sunday Drinks - Planning Session

Some of our members

Join An Upcoming Hangout

Sewer Socialism

Changemakers in Action

Fishing Expeditions in the Pacific and Caribbean Sea

Is Zohran Mamdani The Return Of Emil Seidel?

The United Nations: Reform or Rupture?

Recent Hangouts

The Problem Of Evil

Sunday Drinks - Planning Session

The Nobel Prize: Past, Present, and Future

Meaningful Discussions: Curiosity Night

Idioms, Set Phrases And Expressions

Accountability Group for Goal-Setters

What would you do about the war in Ukraine if you were POTUS?

Musical Icons

Hello, Let's Have A Chat

Sunday Drinks - Planning Session

Fear & Confidence

Perception

The Music that Moves Us

Accountability Group for Goal Setters

Accountability Group for 3-month Goal-Setters

Sunday Drinks - Planning Session

The Art of Letting Go

Utopian Thinking

Agnostic Atheist Secular Humanist

Sunday Drinks - Planning Session

Some of our members