Café Inquiry (Online) – Is There a God for Atheists?

This event is held online. (Click the button to join the Zoom meeting.)

It depends on how one defines “god” and how one defines “atheist”. Steve Andersen explores the philosophy of Baruch Spinoza. Einstein had a famous quote: “I believe in Spinoza’s God, who reveals himself in the lawful harmony of all that exists, but not in a God who concerns himself with the fate and the doings of mankind.” These short video snippets for your perusal discuss Spinoza’s life and excommunication from Judaism because of his beliefs, as well as exploring the nature of Spinoza’s God. If you’d like another perspective, this episode of the Within Reason podcast video features Rainn Wilson (best known as Dwight Schrute in the U.S. version of The Office) discussing his views of religion, spirituality and consciousness among other topics. Just a warning that this video runs about 97 minutes –  although there is a list of subjects covered with links to where they are discussed in the video if you don’t want to watch the whole thing. Steve always has an interesting take on our topics, so join us ONLINE for what promises to be a lively discussion!

Café Inquiry starts with a short introduction of the day’s topic, followed by casual discussion.

This event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated, but not expected.

Attendees are able to future propose topics which would align with Michigan Humanist’s purpose: from atheism, agnosticism, humanism, secularism, and freethinking to broader subjects in science and humanities, such as religion, philosophy, social issues, politics, evolution, morality, ethics, and psychology.

Café Inquiry (Grand Rapids) meets each month IN PERSON on the second Sunday and ONLINE on the fourth Sunday.

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Michigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event.

Michigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Critiques on views and claims based on merit are allowed, but not attacks on individuals who hold other perspectives.

Any person engaging in disruptive behavior or harassment will be asked to leave, and may be banned from future events pending the severity of the action. Please speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.