Mission Statement

We aim to represent the scope of human diversity, foster respect for the differences among us and build on the common ground beneath us. Our goals are to:
  • Encourage and maintain a high level of balanced dialogue,
  • Strive for truth,
  • Promote common courtesy,
  • Learn about each other in order to discover other viewpoints,
  • Investigate political and social issues from all perspectives,
  • Collectively develop new ways of thinking, and
  • Open pathways for community action.

November 6, 2005

Prohibition

At our last meeting on November 6th, we discussed government prohibition of drugs and the enforcement of anti-drug laws, as well as the effects - both intended and unintended - of these policies. A variety of views were expressed on the propriety of drug prohibition and on the relative merits and demerits of using and/or abusing various drugs. The variety of participants' ages, backgrounds, experiences, and beliefs contributed to the true diversity of views expressed.

Much of the discussion centered around the justification for imposing authority upon individuals, and it was decided that this broader philosophical topic could be explored in greater depth at our next discussion. What is (or are) the legitimate source(s) of authority? Under what circumstances (if any) can the will of the many be justly imposed upon the few, or vice-versa? What principles can guide a just society in judiciously excercising this power, while preventing its abuse? I hope you'll join us for what promises to be a challenging and thought-provoking discussion, 3 PM Sunday, November 20th at the City Café.

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