Philosophy Meetup "Political Authority"

Join Us for The Philosopher's Yard Meetup: Exploring "Political Authority"

In this session, we will turn our attention to one of the most fundamental questions in political philosophy: the relationship between political authority and individual responsibility. What should the individual do when political authority becomes incompetent? What types of justifications can there be for legitimate political authority, and where do its limits lie?

Together, we will explore these questions in an open and reflective setting, considering how each of us navigates the tension between obedience, resistance, and responsibility.

This meetup will feature a short talk from Henry Davidson, currently pursuing a postgraduate Master’s degree in Philosophy. Henry has previously studied Philosophy at the University of Birmingham, where his undergraduate dissertation explored Political Cosmopolitanism. His current thesis defends the concept of Epistocracy as a political foundation for society.

Henry’s talk will draw on the work of key thinkers such as Robert Paul Wolff (In Defense of Anarchism), John Locke (Two Treatises of Government), and Jason Brennan (Against Democracy), offering a provocative lens on authority, legitimacy, and the role of the individual.

As always, The Philosopher’s Yard provides a neutral, welcoming space for dialogue and reflection. Whether you are well-versed in political philosophy or simply curious about the nature of authority and responsibility, this is an opportunity to share your perspectives and listen to diverse viewpoints from fellow thinkers.

The event will take place at BRIG Café at The Warehouse, located in the Birmingham city centre. The ambiance is perfect for connecting with others who, like you, are searching for deeper understanding and meaningful connections.

Tickets are £5. We also have a buy one get one free offer if you're purchasing with a friend. As a registered charity, all revenue generated from tickets will go, in full, towards supporting Philosophers' Yard events and activities.

If paying for a ticket is not financially feasible for you or our ticketing system presents some other barrier, please contact [email protected]. We have a small number of free tickets that will be given away on a first-come, first-served basis, no questions asked.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Find out more about The Philosophers's Yard or about our other philosophy events on our website.

Info: Participants are expected to make themselves comfortable, and if wanted, speak amongst themselves, before the host introduces the meetup.

Info: After a short introduction of the event, the host will guide the participants to an icebreaker activity based on a list of prompting questions on the topic.

Info: Participants will have a comfort break.

Info: Henry’s talk will draw on the work of key thinkers such as Robert Paul Wolff (In Defense of Anarchism), John Locke (Two Treatises of Government), and Jason Brennan (Against Democracy), offering a provocative lens on authority, legitimacy, and the role of the individual.

Info: Participants will take part in a group discussion facilitated by our volunteers.

Info: The host will guide the participants through closing activities such as feedback forms or learning about future The Philosophers' Yard events.

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