Philosophy in Pubs at The Insurrection: Philosophy of Poverty.

Big Society ideologues would have been tingling with pride on Monday as members of Philosophy in Pubs, Nerve and members of the public gathered at ‘Insurrection’ in FACT to discuss the crucial subject of ‘Poverty’ after a hard-hitting introduction from rap artist Immortal Technique with his ‘The Poverty of Philosophy’. Oh okay, a part of that might not be true. The lyrics refer to not the weakness of philosophy but its lack in poor communities.

Drawing from the video the first question was ‘Is poverty a natural state’? Most contributors commented that the poverty that exists now is systemic. Zambia, for example spent 7% of its budget on state services in 1997 while spending 40% re-paying foreign debt. Many ‘poor’ countries are rich in natural resources. It was suggested that, despite this, individuals are seen as and often feel responsible for their poor status.

There were many examples of poverty not just in the wider world but in our immediate surroundings. Although of a different order than the poverty experienced in most third world countries many contributors recognized a poverty of hope and spirit in some working-class communities. The discussion broadened out into a wider analysis of the destructive nature of inequality in society and how those without access to cultural capital may try to buy happiness through consumption.

For some group members there was the hope of gradual change as new technologies and different ways of networking provided new and exciting opportunities. For others the problem was more urgent and there were many passionate contributions. During final comments people recognized the worth of discussing a subject which is generally avoided. Over thirty people attended the meeting on a Monday afternoon, everyone contributing in some way to a rich political and philosophical discussion.

Words by Jimmy Stanton.

Tuesday 31st August at The Nerve Centre.

It's a sunny day - for now, at least! - and The Nerve Centre is back with another day filled with possibility, discussion and ideas. Head down for twelve o'clock and you can see the exhibition before the following events occur:

From 12 to 2pm we have another film show, with the trailers for the films below:

If these look good, head down for 12pm and join us as we learn more of the world through the many fascinating movies showing at The Nerve Centre.

Coming at 3pm is another discussion from our favorite Philosophy group, Philosophy In Pubs. Todays topic is Nature versus Nature. Mike Ellis faciliates as the group discusses how we can turn peoples lives around. Come on down and join in! 

The Nerve Centre.

Catalyst Review: An Introduction to Philosophy in Pubs

Adam Ford reviews a Philosophy in Pubs session at The Nerve Centre:

The "second Enlightenment" took a step forward at the Nerve Centre on Wednesday, as a dozen Liverpool philosophers got together to discuss life, the universe, and everything.

The session was much more free-wheeling than a typical Philosophy In Pubs enquiry, which zeroes in on a particular subject that is then dissected over a couple of hours and a couple of pints. But this was clearly the intention of facilitator Rob Lewis, who led us through an intriguing maze of topics with a light touch, introducing newcomers to the world of PIPs.

The concept is simple enough: "to allow people a space to express and discuss their ideas and thoughts, and to learn from each other in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere". But the possibilities opened up by such a set-up seem endless, and the opportunity is precious precisely because it seems so rare in early twenty-first century society. But why is this? Well, I have my ideas, but maybe there’s an enquiry in it...

Read more.

The Nerve Centre.

Coming Up at The Nerve Centre.

After an interesting day at The Nerve Centre, with art a plenty, Windows Writing Desk offering valuable feedback to Liverpool's writers, surprise visitors of many origins and the weather not being too much of a draw back, let's look at Friday 20th August's multitude of pleasures:

We have Historic Films of Liverpool from 12pm including the following:

Morning In The Streets (1959)
Beat City (1963)
Turn Of The Tide (1967)
Liverpool Sounding (1967)
Us And Them (1970)
Who Cares? (1971)

From 2pm we have Philosophy in Pubs with a talk with the film maker of ‘Us and Them’, Peter Leason, followed by discussion on the burning issue of the demolition of Liverpool communities from Scotland Road, Kensington, Toxteth and many others, raising the questions ‘how did it affect us?’ ‘why were we not consulted’ and 'how can we ensure we are listened to in the future?' 

Finally, when you've caught your breath, we have from 4:30 Living Newspaper, in which Carl Dutton encourages expressive interpretations of the news. Sound intriguing? Come on down to The Nerve Centre and get involved! 

The Nerve Centre.

Today at The Nerve Centre.

Today at the Nerve Centre we were shocked, intrigued and educated by many films including the eye opening 'The Fourth World War' which is really worth a look if you get the chance. (See trailer below.)

 Tomorrow we have a Philosophy in Pubs discussion concerning none other than the roots of the Philosophy in Pubs group themselves! Rob Lewis will be facilitating the discussion and it promises to be interesting!

Don't forget to keep checking The Nerve Centre for new artist profiles, event updates and much more. Check out the trailer for todays film below and we'll see you soon!

4ww from bignoisetactical on Vimeo.