Rabbi Edmond H. Weiss Thomas Jefferson believed that by the end of the 19th century all Americans—granted freedom from religion—would become enlightened atheists or Unitarians. A generation later, the founders of Reform Judaism believed that the ethical writings of Immanuel Kant eventually would supersede the Bible’s commandments. Rabbi Weiss argues that both viewpoints failed to [...]

Hugh Taft-Morales Leader, Philadelphia Ethical Society Join us in-person and on Zoom for a gratitude gathering with music, readings, activities, and sharing—but no food. For those who want to eat, we will be serving pie at the building afterward! Those fully-vaccinated and boosted are welcome to join in-person at 1906 S. Rittenhouse Square. Please wear [...]

Daniel Hoffman, PES Member The United Nations NGO Committee on Freedom of Religion or Belief was formed in 1991. The goal: to promote international agreements protecting freedom of thought, conscience, religion, and belief. Daniel, who is on the board, will share the organization’s background and talk about how the conflict between freedom of religion and [...]

Hugh Taft-Morales Leader, Philadelphia Ethical Society The recent surge in book bans is troubling. During the last academic year, school districts in 32 states announced 2,500 such actions. But thanks to human curiosity and opposition to censorship, banning books backfires. Book stores even create displays to capitalize on demand for this forbidden fruit. Hugh suggests [...]

Jonathan Zimmerman University of Pennsylvania Americans have long debated how public schools should address religion and faith. Now we’re arguing about our conceptions of America, which have become quasi-religious beliefs in their own right. Can we present diverse views of this country rather than teach a single story? Zimmerman, professor of history of education and [...]

Need some light in these dark times? Come celebrate community as we gather to light candles and kindle hope for brighter days ahead. Those fully-vaccinated and boosted are welcome to join in-person at 1906 S. Rittenhouse Square. Please wear a mask indoors (N-95) and bring your proof of vaccination. OR You can join here online [...]

Happy New Year! There is no platform today. Enjoy the holiday!

Hugh Taft-Morales Leader, Philadelphia Ethical Society At our first Sunday gathering of each year, we remember important life lessons and inspiring memories left to us by those who have died. Members in-person and on Zoom are encouraged to share some words about how those lessons and memories help us live more fully, joyfully, and ethically. [...]

Rabbi Julie Greenberg Rabbi Greenberg will speak about the rise in antisemitism around the world. Why now? Where does this hatred come from and what does it mean? How can we combat it? Greenberg serves Congregation Leyv Ha-Ir~Heart of the City and also is director of Climate Justice and Jobs at POWER Interfaith. In addition, [...]

Hugh Taft-Morales Leader, Philadelphia Ethical Society The recent surge of hostility toward Jews in the United States is terrifying. Neo-Nazis march in our streets and dine with powerful politicians. Antisemitism, stoked by lies and hate, is used to generate attention, money, and votes. Building on Rabbi Julie Greenberg’s comments from the prior week, Hugh will [...]