Does Money Matter in American Elections?
Robin Kolodny Professor and Chair, Political Science at Temple University In the last two presidential elections (and nominating contests), money raised and spent on elections proved a poor indicator of candidate success. How can that be? This talk will explore the erosion of the campaign finance regulatory system, the emergence of low-cost communications technologies, and [...]
(Virtual) Lunch with Leader Hugh – “The Magic of Humanism”
PA, United States“Lunch with Hugh” will begin featuring a new brochure entitled, “The Magic of Humanism.” Written by James Croft, Leader of the Ethical Society of St. Louis, it explores six values central to humanism: truth, nature, community, growth, goodness, and justice. After a brief go-round, we’ll share our thoughts on the first of these accessible 300-word [...]
Book Discussion – Caste by Isabel Wilkerson
PA, United StatesHugh Taft-Morales and members of the Philadelphia and Baltimore Ethical Societies will discuss this important new book. We will address the first half (Parts 1, 2, 3, and 4, pp. 3-260) on Thursday, Feb. 18, at 5:30. We will discuss the rest of the book at 5:30PM on March 18th. Get your copy now! RSVP [...]
Time Warps: The pandemic’s effect on our sense of duration
Hugh Taft-Morales Leader, Philadelphia Ethical Society The pandemic has affected our perception of time, but not all people experience the warping the same way. For some time has moved slowly, for others quickly, and many feel both ways! What makes the minute hand move like molasses? What makes the days fly by? Hugh Taft-Morales explores [...]
Book Discussion – Little Women
PA, United StatesAs part of Hugh’s year-long “Women of Fiction Book Discussion,” our second installment focuses on Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott. Join us via Zoom on February 27 at 11:30AM. There will be an extra discussion with Baltimore Society members, Monday, March 1, at 5:00PM. RSVP to LeaderHugh@phillyethics.org.
Democracy Conquers Absurdity
Rabbi Michael Pollack Executive Director, March on Harrisburg In a time when we are drowning in suffering and absurdity, the promises of democracy must be pursued and achieved. This discussion will explore the meanings of democracy and liberty, and provide structure and direction for our struggle toward our ideals. It will cover ongoing campaigns and [...]
Being Wrong: The Virtues of Humility and Doubt
Hugh Taft-Morales Leader, Philadelphia Ethical Society We all like to be right, but should we get more comfortable being wrong? So often we make truth claims and proceed to stake so much on them: our ego, our reputation, our power. Given that every person’s knowledge is limited, shouldn’t we let go of certainty and embrace [...]
Introduction to Ethical Humanism
Hugh Taft-Morales will offer another Intro to Ethical Humanism. This is particularly for newcomers, but all are welcome! Please RSVP to LeaderHugh@phillyethics.org and join here online at the scheduled time.
Impeachment, Minority Rule, and the Future of Democracy
Kermit Roosevelt Prof. of Law, UPenn; and Author Donald Trump is the only President to have been impeached twice. In each case, the charge was an improper attempt to influence his own reelection. What can we learn from the impeachment? And how does it relate to the prospects for democratic self-governance under our Constitution? Kermit [...]
Book Discussion – Caste by Isabel Wilkerson
PA, United StatesHugh Taft-Morales and members of the Philadelphia and Baltimore Ethical Societies will discuss this important new book. In this session, we will discuss the second half of the book (parts 5, 6, and 7 pp. 233-388). Get your copy now! RSVP to LeaderHugh@phillyethics.org.