Superstition
Philadelphia Ethical Society 1906 Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesHugh Taft-Morales, Leader Philadelphia Ethical Society Almost a third of Americans admit to being at least somewhat superstitious. People knock on wood, throw salt over their shoulders, and avoid walking under ladders. Should we challenge such remnants of magical thinking, as Freethought Society founder Margaret Downey does at her Friday the 13th parties? Do superstitions [...]
Practical Lessons for Personal Excellence and Tranquility
Philadelphia Ethical Society 1906 Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesJoin the Philadelphia Ethical Society and Philadelphia Stoa for the second of four seminars focused on practical exercises for cultivating virtue and excellence. Stoicism and Ethical Culture both are philosophical traditions that champion rationality, ethical living, and the pursuit of moral virtues. These seminars also draw parallels with positive psychology and explore the Stoic disciplines [...]
Lunch with Hugh
Philadelphia Ethical Society 1906 Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesWe’ll eat. We’ll talk. Bring your own lunch and a topic of conversation. Meet in the Leader’s Office.
The Future of Journalism in a Democratic Society
Philadelphia Ethical Society 1906 Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesVictor Pickard, Professor of Media Policy and Political Economy Annenberg School for Communication The plague of misinformation is a threat to democracy, made worse by the loss of local journalism. Pickard, co-director of the Media, Inequality & Change Center at University of Pennsylvania’s Annenberg School, explores the need for new approaches to mainstream news and [...]
The Founding of Ethical Culture
Philadelphia Ethical Society 1906 Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesHugh Taft-Morales, Leader Philadelphia Ethical Society On the eve of an election whose outcome weighs heavily on us all, Hugh Taft-Morales explores the founding of Ethical Culture. What did Felix Adler regard as the greatest challenges to civilization back in 1876? Why did he think that a new, nontheist congregational movement emphasizing deed over creed [...]
Community Discussions about Leadership Transition
Philadelphia Ethical Society 1906 Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesLet’s continue our discussion about how the Philadelphia Ethical Society will move forward after Hugh’s retirement. Learn about the formation of a search committee. Talk about President Mike’s call for “pre-hab” by revitalizing our Ethical Action, Community, and Education missions. Share your ideas! Step up to help!
Practical Lessons for Personal Excellence and Tranquility
Philadelphia Ethical Society 1906 Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesJoin the Philadelphia Ethical Society and Philadelphia Stoa as we continue exploring the connections between Stoicism and Ethical Culture. The series deepens our understanding of these related philosophies and their relevance in today's world. This month's seminar focuses on the rejection of commercialism; self-realization through ethical action; and universal ethical principles, emphasizing how ethical behavior [...]
Ethical Culture Happy Hour
Philadelphia Ethical Society 1906 Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesCome for conversation and a brief presentation about our alternative to traditional religion. Hugh will share his perspective on our humanist history, values, and community. Snacks and beverages—alcoholic and non-alcoholic—will be provided.
Brunch with Hugh: Post-Election Edition
Philadelphia Ethical Society 1906 Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesCelebrate or mourn? Analyze or vent? Return to normal life or start packing to leave the country? Whatever we need on this day after the election, we’ll deal with it together, over bagels (provided). Bring your own coffee.
Why Racial Equity in School Funding Is So Hard to Achieve
Philadelphia Ethical Society 1906 Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesRoseann Liu, Assistant Professor of Educational Studies Swarthmore College The challenges facing urban school districts like Philadelphia’s often boil down to the need for more money. Through an inside look at the Pennsylvania state legislature and campaigns for fair funding, Liu will demonstrate how those responsible for funding maintain the privileges of majority-white school districts. [...]