Wimborne Philosophical Society

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Recent News

Thank you to everyone who attended the meeting yesterday! (Sunday 2nd Nov)It was lovely to see participants returning and engaging with the Allegory of the Cave- a short, yet philosophically rich text that provided fertile ground for discussion and insight!I look forward to seeing you all again on the 30th of November!

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Our Meetings

Our meetings are where philosophy comes alive. Each gathering is designed to spark curiosity, encourage reflection, and invite conversation across a wide range of perspectives—from classic thinkers like Plato and Descartes to today’s debates on consciousness, identity, morality, and society.Evenings vary in format, but may include:-Short introductions to themes or questions-Breakout group discussions-Whole-group conversations-Socratic circles-Structured debates-Open-floor dialogues-Guest speakersWhat stays the same is the atmosphere: open, welcoming, and non-hierarchical. Whether you’re new to philosophy or deeply experienced, your perspective matters. Our aim isn’t to settle debates but to enjoy the process of questioning together.

Membership

Becoming a member of Wimborne Philosophical Society is the best way to be part of our growing community. Membership is open to anyone (16+) with an interest in philosophy—no prior knowledge required.As a member, you’ll:Attend our meetings and take part in discussionsContribute ideas for future topics and activitiesParticipante in the democratic running of the societySupport the society’s growth and sustainabilityHave the opportunity to stand for election to the BoardTo help new members settle in, your first few meetings are at a reduced attendance fee. After that, if you’d like to stay on, membership is currently set at £5 per month, collected in six-month blocks (£30 at a time). All fees go directly towards venue hire, resources, and keeping the society running.

The Board

The BoardWimborne Philosophical Society is democratic at heart, with an elected Board that provides structure and guidance. The Board ensures the society stays true to its aims while remaining fair, transparent, and sustainable.What the Board doesOversee the organisation of meetings and eventsEnsure decisions follow the society’s constitutionManage finances responsibly and transparentlySupport the growth and wellbeing of the community

Who’s on the Board?Chair — provides overall direction, facilitates meetings, represents the societySecretary — keeps records, coordinates communications and administrationTreasurer — manages finances, membership fees, and transparent reportingOrdinary Members (x2) — bring member perspectives into Board decisions and support events/projectsWimborne Philosophical Society is currently in the process of determining its first Board.

Our Constitution

The constitution is the backbone of Wimborne Philosophical Society. It sets out how we are organised, how decisions are made, and the standards we hold ourselves to.Its purpose is simple: to ensure the society is run fairly, transparently, and with integrity. By laying out clear principles and expectations, it helps create a respectful and inclusive space where open discussion can thrive.The constitution reflects our core values of curiosity, honesty, and mutual respect. It ensures that both members and the Board are accountable, and that the society remains true to its aims.You can download the full constitution below:

Contact

For all enquiries, please contact:Ashley Pollard - Founder and Current ChairEmail: [email protected]Tel: 07478-870-166

Archive

Inaugural MeetingSunday 28th September
6-7:30pm

Welcome & Founder Introduction
Founder opened with a warm welcome, shared the society’s origins, purpose, and outline for the evening.Member Introductions
Members briefly introduced themselves, sharing backgrounds and interests.Introduction to Topics
Overview of upcoming themes and encouragement for member suggestions.Vision for the Society
Shared long-term aim: open, thoughtful discussion and genuine connection.Introduction to the Constitution
Quick outline of structure, roles, and next steps for feedback and adoption.Short Break
Time to refresh and chat informally.Breakout Discussion Groups
Small group discussions on a range of philosophical topicsClosing Remarks
Thanks, reflections, and mention of next meeting and ongoing engagement.End of meeting -

Meeting 2Sunday 2nd November - Plato's Allegory of the Cave
6-7:30pm

Welcome & Updates
Chair welcomed returning participants, provided updates regarding new website and published constitution, and briefly discussed Board member positionsTalk: Overview of the Allegory
Chair gave a brief overview of Plato's Allegory of the Cave, offering interpretive analysis of key symbols and themesBreakout Group Discussions
The group divided into small discussion groups to explore the Allegory of the Cave in greater depth, guided by a structured set of questions designed to prompt reflection on it's philosophical dimensionsWhole Group Discussion
Members reconvened for a whole-group discussion to share the key insights and reflections that had emerged. The conversation drew together diverse interpretations, highlighting recurring themes and contrasting viewpoints from across the groupsClosing Reflections and Announcements
The session ended with words of thanks to all who attended and contributed to the discussion. The Chair emphasised the value of ongoing feedback and reminded members of the upcoming meeting dateEnd of meeting -

Recent News

3/11/25

Thank you to everyone who attended the meeting yesterday! (Sunday 2nd Nov)It was lovely to see participants returning and engaging with the Allegory of the Cave- a short, yet philosophically rich text that provided fertile ground for discussion and insight!I look forward to seeing you all again on the 30th of November!

29/10/25

On Sunday 28th September, the society held its inaugural meeting.Nineteen participants came together, in good faith, for an evening of lively discussion and thoughtful debate.The seed has now been planted, the ball is rolling, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the society and its members!Our next meeting will take place on Sunday the 2nd of November, and I look forward to seeing everyone there for another evening of engaging philosophy!