Tackle Life's Big Philosophical Questions with EarthDiverse

This series of eight group discussions in our new Philosophy series examines life’s big questions. Topics include: What is the meaning of life? How to lead a good life? What is the best moral and political system? What is Language? Is our universe real? Does God exist? Is there truth, and if so, what is it? Each session is introduced with a brief introduction from two guest presenters on the evening’s topic (with different backgrounds and perspectives), followed by an evening of moderated group discussion in which you participate. Our “Big Questions” series will continue in Term 2 (with a different set of deep philosophical musings). 

- PHL 201: Big Questions 1 (offered in 2021 Term 1)
- PHL 202: Big Questions 2 ( (offered 2021 Term 2)

Most people ponder the BIG questions from time to time. Sometimes our answers change over time, often on their own or as the effect of seminal experiences or encounters.

But these days there are not very many places where you can freely discuss these questions. Many academic institutions have become highly specialised and seem hesitant to engage in cross-disciplinary discussion and debate with such universal questions. Religious and political institutions often answer such questions from a very distinct or doctrinaire ideological angle or position.

In 2021 Term 1, EarthDiverse has organised a ‘Philosophical Café’ of sorts—a chance to talk about these queries from a wide variety of perspectives. Our round table discussions aim at being a forum for the respectful exchange of inquiries and ideas concerning life’s Big Questions. The idea is to attract and engage participants from a diverse spectrum of religious and ideological backgrounds. Anyone who has asked themselves what life, reality, language and community are all about—or should be all about—is welcome to attend and participate in our community.

Following two 5 mins presentations from two guest presenters from different cultural, ethnic, religious, scientific or academic backgrounds, we shall engage in a round table exchange of ideas with a view to teasing out the diversity and commonalities in our various worldviews.

Join us in a philosophical and spiritual journey to tap into the great pool of wisdom that exists within our local community, both here in Hamilton (through in-person attendance), or on-line via Zoom, through which you can participate fully in our lounge discussions.

Distance-Learning Options: Live-streamed Hamilton classes are available via free Zoom software for those living outside the Waikato. Live-streaming allows you to participate fully in your own learning, ask questions of the instructor and participate fully in the same way as if you were in the physical classroom. Those unable to attend the scheduled date and time of the actual class sessions, or those who need to miss a class or two due to previous engagements or unexpected illness, can watch any or all of the live-recorded video sessions on their computers, laptops, tablets or mobile devices and study at their own pace and in their own time. Detailed instructions on how to access our distance learning components will be sent to you in the week before your course is set to begin.

For more detailed information, visit our website.