The Philosophers' Yard Book Club: Descartes' Meditations (in-person)

Join The Philosophers' Yard for an in-person book club as we explore doubt, reality and certainty through Descartes’ Meditations.
About this Event

What if everything you think you know could be wrong? Join us in person for an evening of open, curious conversation as we read and explore one of the most influential works in Western philosophy.

About the Book

This month we’re reading Meditations on First Philosophy (1641) by René Descartes. In this work, Descartes decides to doubt everything he has ever believed: the evidence of his senses, the difference between waking and dreaming, even the possibility that a deceiving demon is manipulating his thoughts. His aim is to clear the ground and rebuild knowledge on something certain.

It matters because the questions he raises about certainty, perception and the reliability of the mind still shape philosophy, psychology and science today. Don’t worry if you haven’t read philosophy before. It’s written in a personal, almost diary-like voice and makes a great entry point.

How the Evening Will Work

This is a relaxed, interactive discussion rather than a lecture. There’s no expertise required and no right answers. There are no formal introductions, presentations or summaries. Instead, everyone comes together having read the book and shares their thoughts, questions and interpretations in a free-flowing, informal and sociable conversation. Prompt questions may be placed around the room to help spark discussion, but participation is entirely at your own pace. The room will be laid out to encourage mingling and movement between groups, with chairs and tables available for those who would prefer to sit. As this is an informal, free-flowing discussion, attendees are welcome to come and go throughout the event. However, arriving at the advertised start time is encouraged, as a strong turnout at the beginning helps establish the conversation and creates a more engaging discussion for everyone.

Prompt questions might include:

• Have your senses ever deceived you? Does that make them untrustworthy?
• How can we know we’re not dreaming right now?
• Is radical doubt a path to certainty or a path to anxiety?

Before You Come

Please read the book beforehand (approximately 2 hours of reading). Bring your questions, doubts and objections, and consider bringing a printed or saved copy to refer to during the discussion.

Suggested Materials:

• The full text of the Meditations (free online via Project Gutenberg)
• Youtube video essays
• The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy entry on René Descartes for background reading

Venue and Details

• Where: Bacchus Bar (Egyptian event room)
• When: Tuesday 3 November 2026, 19:00 - 22:00
• Getting there: The venue is located just opposite New Street station in the Burlington Arcade

Who It’s For

Anyone curious about big questions, whether you’re a lifelong philosophy fan or have never opened a philosophy book. All are welcome.
Quotes from past attendees:

The discussion was beautifully constructed and it was an absolute joy to engage with people in so many different ways

It’s an amazing space that encourages conscious thinking and expression. I love it, thank you!

These events are amazing, I love them! Keep it up - it makes the world better 🙂

Note on supporter tickets:

As a registered charity, all revenue generated from tickets will go, in full, towards supporting Philosophers' Yard events and activities.

Find out more about The Philosopher's Yard or about our other philosophy events and meetups.