Convener: Brian Ness
Date: Third Thursday of each month
Time: 2 PM to 4 PM
Where: Hawks Nest Golf Club
brianlimpopo@gmail.com
An exploration of the metaphysical world in search of wisdom and meaning.
Since the beginning of 2025 U3A Metaphysics has conducted six lectures and discussion sessions – run on the first Monday of each month at the Hawks Nest Golf Club. At this stage it is unclear when the series will end – but my expectation is that we will continue for at least 2 years.
We have had between 12 and 18 members attend the sessions.
The first session provided an introduction to Metaphysics as a discipline as well some indication on which of the many big metaphysical and existential questions we hope to address on the course.
In the 2nd and 3rd sessions we took a look at the wonders and the limitations of science as well as the anthropic fine-tuning of the universe.
Session 4 was dedicated to looking at the arguments for the existence of the immaterial or transcendent realm – which is central to metaphysical thought.
In session 5 we had an introduction to the various non-literal methods that are needed to fully engage with and understand metaphysical claims. These include mythos, metaphor and analogy and symbolism
In session 6 we started a dive into the sources of metaphysical wisdom which is mostly (but not exclusively) found in the texts of the great religions. In particular we considered an argument for religious pluralism which claims that all the great religions, despite their differences, are all focused on the same Ultimate reality.
The next sessions will be aimed at starting to identify the key pearls of wisdom being offered in these great traditions.
Watch this space
Please would those keen to participate send me your email details at brianlimpopo@gmail.com – if you have not informed either U3A or me in person.
Brian Ness