Brain Teasers London

A Cure For Brainrot bookclub 01 - Freud & Scorcese

A Cure For Brainrot is a non-fiction book club reading philosophy/politics/psychology paired with a film each month. This month, Freud & Scorcese. **Make Your Brain Work Good** At our September 2026 session we will be discussing: Book: *The Future Of An Illusion* by Sigmund Freud Film: *Silence* (2016) by Martin Scorcese We don't read or watch the materials at the event. We will be using the film to help us understand and apply the ideas in the text and critique both. **Event Details** We meet in the Genesis Cinema foyer, 7-9pm, on the last Wednesday of each month. [https://genesiscinema.co.uk](https://genesiscinema.co.uk) Genesis is letting us use the space for free so please support them by buying food and drink. **WhatsApp** We have a WhatsApp group for discussion and updates. [https://chat.whatsapp.com/CLcaenlN12d3LV0NRYN3Wj?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CLcaenlN12d3LV0NRYN3Wj?mode=gi_t) **Spaces & RSVPing** No need to RSVP. Meetup limits the amount of attendees who can RSVP to 10 - if this number has been reached, you can still show up!

Brain Worms 123 / Martian Time-Slip by Philip K. Dick

On the arid colony of Mars the only thing more precious than water may be a ten-year-old schizophrenic boy named Manfred Steiner. For although the UN has slated 'anomalous' children for deportation and destruction, other people—especially Supreme Goodmember Arnie Kott of the Water Workers' union—suspect that Manfred's disorder may be a window into the future. But what sort of future? And what happens to those unfortunates whom Manfred ushers into it? In *Martian Time-Slip* Philip K. Dick uses power politics and extraterrestrial real estate scams, adultery, and murder to penetrate the mysteries of being and time. Available from all good libraries and book shops. You don't have to have read it to join us - but it'll probably help. **We've teamed up with Burley Fisher Book Shop to offer you 10% off Martian Time-Slip by Philip K. Dick. Simply click on the link below and use the code "RIO" to claim your copy of the book:** **[https://burleyfisherbooks.com/products/martian-time-slip](https://burleyfisherbooks.com/products/martian-time-slip)** We will be meeting in The Ludski Bar in the Rio Cinema. [https://www.riocinema.org.uk/your-visit/](https://www.riocinema.org.uk/your-visit/) You are welcome to bring outside food in with you but please buy your drinks from inside the cinema. Thank you. We hope to see you there. ... To join the Brain Worms WhatsApp Group please click here: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/EvFibn1d6AsEwdVGmwkhko](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EvFibn1d6AsEwdVGmwkhko) (in order to stop spam bots this will take you to a Waiting Room. Once in please write your name and we will join you to the main chat). Meetup charges subscription fees. If you would like to make a donation please click here: [https://paypal.me/philosophycollective](https://paypal.me/philosophycollective)

Big Talk Chats: Our Origins - The Cosmic Debate

When you look up at the stars, what is the first thought or instinct that goes through your mind? Do you ever ponder: Did a Creator set our world in motion, or is the universe a random cosmic event? Time is precious. Here we cherish non-boring big picture chats and interactions with interesting people that are fully engaging, soulfully enriching, inspiring, and leave you a bit wiser than when you arrived. In that spirit today’s fully hosted laid back social coffee chat will offer a perfect haven for naturally inquisitive and curious **independent big picture thinkers** drawn to the mysteries of life, the universe and the unknown. An adrenaline caffeine infused fun afternoon of thought-provoking causal chats exploring interconnected topics spanning the epistemology aspects of **philosophy,** **neuroscience**, **physics, cosmology** and **theology** over a mug of sweet coffee or Chardonnay if that's what brings out your sharp debating skills Whether you've studied physics, identify as an atheist, or simply feel a deep sense of wonder about existence, you are welcome. You don't need an in-depth background in science or philosophy - just an open mind, your own stories, and a willingness to explore life's biggest questions. Chaired by a former Reuters journalist & published empirical researcher (I recognise statistical causality and significance don't make something true) - exploring topics in pursuant of the "truth" since a teenager. There'll be no strict structure - a relaxed friendly space to openly chat, exchange ideas without judgement, but I'll preside to promote inclusivity and zone in on specifics to avoid people digressing onto unrelated tangents to ensure particpants derive maximum utlity and engagement from attending **==== Sample of conversational threads ===** might include: 1. Many profess that god is an invisible force that can't be seen yet we can't directly see quarks, black holes, or dark matter but we know they exist in reality via inference through quantum mathematics, particle accelerators, and gravitational lensing and waves. None of that can be said about God - there is zero empirical evidence, just blind faith. So is anyone who declares there is proof of god delusional or just stupid? 2. Despite the fossil records, the detection of cosmic microwave background radiation from over 13.8 billion years ago and radiometric isotope dating with half-lives exceeding the biblical timeline, many **religions refuse to answer questions on** dinosaurs, evolution, space and the age of the universe. When the first physical evidence of exoplanets was confirmed, the Vatican - realising that other life in the galaxy was highly likely — issued statements proclaiming if we found aliens that would not contradict the existence of god. Was this because the foundation of their belief system was threatened? 3. The fundamental numbers that govern our universe such as gravity, the cosmological constant and the ratio of gravity to electromagnetism - seem to sit within an impossibly narrow margin for life as we know it. The odds of this happening by pure chance are estimated at less than 1 in 10^120. Such extreme precision could suggest these constants were deliberately tuned for life. But what if an infinite number of universes exist with different laws? Then it becomes a 100% mathematical certainty that at least one would accidentally have the right conditions for life and we simply happen to live in that one? Does the discovery of *quantum superposition /* disappearing neutrons imply these **parallel universes exist**? 4. If **Elon Musk** is right and that we live in a simulation created by an alien civilization or runs as a computer software, who created our creators? At what point does the chain of causes have to stop at an uncaused "base reality"? 5. Similarly if God created the universe then as my philosophy professor once rightly postulated: "If God created Adam, who created God Lucas?" Yep - that inconvenient flaw **debunks every fairytale religion** out there - night as well believe witchcraft practised by Harry Potter at **Hogwarts** is real! Proponents will argue before god there was nothing. So how you get something from nothing? If god came out of nothing then why can't the universe? 6. Does the fact that 15% of people who have had NDEs report they were in hell prove God exists? Could pleasant experiences of happiness be purely endorphin-driven? If a morphine antagonist is given instead, could that evoke a demonic experience? 7. What existed before the **big bang**? I believe our reality is the product of a black hole - what astrophysicts term as white holes. What you reckon? 8. We know there are trillions of galaxies and planets in our universe. James Webb has ffund early black holes just 1 million years after our universe was born that make no sense. Dark matter and massive empty space for life only to exist on our planet - really? Through the lens of volume efficiency, the universe looks absurdly wasteful: atomic nuclei and electrons occupy less than 0.00000000001% of an atom's volume—the rest is empty space held apart by force fields. Yet, from an engineering perspective, this "empty" space is brilliant: the electromagnetic force allows electron clouds to form stable shells, creating room for chemistry, carbon atoms, and DNA to self-assemble automatically. Does this underlying stability point to intentional design, or just natural physical emergence? 9. If a higher intelligence or God did create our universe, what could the purpose and motive be? Love, connection, artistic expression, or simply exploring what complex systems can do? 10. Given the irrefutable scientific evidence for evolution at both micro and macro scale, is denying it is basic delusion as thinking the earth is flat. Could panspermia explain the origin of life on earth? 11. Has a profound personal experience, a mystical moment, or a sense of awe in nature ever made you feel connected to something higher? How do our personal experiences shape what we believe compared to logic or science? ***So how do we get to the "truth"?*** Both in my journalism days and in my consulting work applying advanced empirical research techniques to answer difficult questions - it becomes clear the truth is often elusive. No matter how much we triangulate evidence - we can only provide part answers. As George Box once said "All models are wrong, but some are useful" What we think we know and reality diverge leading to that great **paradox of knowledge.** And as the boundary between knowns and unknown converge, we end up with cognitive dissonance and more questions. In that spirit - every credible philosopher & scientist acknowledges - we'll never get to the complete truth but could **a** balanced approach guided by Immanuel Kant's pragmatism and Aristotle's deductive reasoning at least be a starting rationale framework? **=== RENDEZVOUS POINT ===** We will meet in the outside back garden of this lovely posh Islington pub. 10 mins walk from Highbury & Islington station. Ask for me by name or I will post in commrents exactly what table we are at. I'll be wearing a **Starwars identifier** and will share mobile hotline just before event start and table number/location. Lucas - The Unenlightened Desperately Seeking Answers

Assertiveness, Setting Boundaries & Resolving Conflicts In Social Situation

Conundrum Corner :: London - Your Dilemmas Discussed..

*this event is advertised elsewhere so there will be more people coming than stated* **✨ Welcome to Conundrum Corner at The Union Jack pub, Southwark! ✨** Step inside and join a gathering *of* open minds and kind hearts. Whether you bring a conundrum of your own that you are experiencing or simply your listening ear, you’ll find a welcoming space to share, reflect, and explore life’s tricky questions together. 🌿 **What to expect:** * You’re invited to share a conundrum, dilemma or question that you yourself are experiencing. * We’ll vote to choose a few intriguing ones to explore more deeply. * With a few extra details in hand, we’ll break into small groups for thoughtful discussion. * Then, we’ll come together as one big group to share insights, perspectives, and perhaps even some fresh solutions. The atmosphere is **analytical yet empathetic, thoughtful yet light-hearted**, and always non-judgmental. Whether your conundrum is personal, professional, or just a head-scratcher, we’re here to help unravel it together. 💸 There’s no set fee to attend, but we do ask for donations on the night to cover costs - which are warmly appreciated! 🍷 Please also support our lovely hosts, Jade and co., by buying yourself a drink at the bar (and food’s available if you fancy a bite). 💡 **What’s a conundrum, you ask?** A conundrum is any dilemma, crossroads, or confusion in your life—big or small. It could be a **"chicken and egg"** situation, a **"catch-22"**, or a **"have your cake and eat it"** kind of puzzle. Sometimes, life just throws us complex, messy questions—and that’s what we’re here to navigate together. Once our deep discussions wind down, we’ll slip into **pub mode**—a chance to relax, connect, and continue chatting with newfound friends. **🛡️ Code of Conduct - *please note*** Conundrum Corner is committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all attendees. Any abuse, harassment, or inappropriate behaviour towards other attendees, whether during the event or in any contact related to the event afterwards, will result in permanent removal from the Meetup group and exclusion from future events. Come along for an evening of intriguing conversations, fresh perspectives, and a touch of serendipity. Looking forward to seeing you there! Helena x

Brain Worms 124 / The 7th Function of Language by Laurent Binet

Paris, 1980. The literary critic Roland Barthes dies—struck by a laundry van. The world of letters mourns a tragic accident. But what if it wasn’t an accident at all? A brilliantly erudite comedy, The Seventh Function of Language takes us from the cafés of Saint-Germain to the corridors of Cornell University, and into the duels and orgies of the Logos Club, a secret philosophical society that dates all the way back to the Roman Empire. Binet has written both a send-up and a wildly exuberant celebration of the French intellectual tradition. Who can you trust when the idea of truth itself is at stake? Available from all good libraries and book shops. You don't have to have read it to join us - but it'll probably help. **We've teamed up with Burley Fisher Book Shop to offer you 10% off The 7th Function of Language by Laurent Binet. Simply click on the link below and use the code "RIO" to claim your copy of the book:** **[https://burleyfisherbooks.com/products/the-7th-function-of-language](https://burleyfisherbooks.com/products/the-7th-function-of-language)** We will be meeting in The Ludski Bar in the Rio Cinema. [https://www.riocinema.org.uk/your-visit/](https://www.riocinema.org.uk/your-visit/) You are welcome to bring outside food in with you but please buy your drinks from inside the cinema. Thank you. We hope to see you there. ... To join the Brain Worms WhatsApp Group please click here: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/EvFibn1d6AsEwdVGmwkhko](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EvFibn1d6AsEwdVGmwkhko) (in order to stop spam bots this will take you to a Waiting Room. Once in please write your name and we will join you to the main chat). Meetup charges subscription fees. If you would like to make a donation please click here: [https://paypal.me/philosophycollective](https://paypal.me/philosophycollective)

Social Pub Quiz Mingle | Making friends one terrible answer at a time

Social Pub Quiz Mixer - Meet new people one question at a time Whether you come solo or with friends, you’ll be thrown straight into the madness with a bunch of lovely strangers who may or may not become your new besties. **JOIN OUR WHATSAPP COMMUNITY HERE:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/CpmuQWTBGJ12dVNCfXdJdQ?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CpmuQWTBGJ12dVNCfXdJdQ?mode=gi_t) Expect ridiculous quiz rounds, comedy, challenges, prizes, bad teamwork, questionable knowledge & absolute scenes. Plus 🏆 Win: • £100 Bar Tab • Plastic Medals (worthless financially, priceless emotionally) • Ultimate pub quiz glory There is a £3pp entry to the quiz payable on the day that covers the prizes you can win We’ll be wrapped up by around 8:30/8:45pm… unless you and your new mates decide to keep the night going afterwards. No quiz knowledge required. Just good vibes and a tolerance for chaos. **⏱️Schedule:** **6:00 PM – Arrival & Mingling 🍻** Get a drink, meet your teammates and settle in. **6:30 PM – Quiz Kick-Off 🧠** The Quiz Chaos begins — ease yourself in… it won’t stay calm for long. **8.30 PM – Results & Prizes 🏆** Winners crowned, losers… dealt with accordingly. **Onwards – Post-Quiz Social ✨** Stick around for drinks, games, and general chaos. *** **🎯 Good to know:** * No quiz experience needed (honestly, it might make things worse) * Either come with a team or solo-- and we find your team mates group! * Expect laughs, not perfection Come for the quiz, stay for the chaos

Kant’s Cave: Philosophy & AI: Does AI Make Us Better Thinkers?

ATTEND IN PERSON OR ON ZOOM ## Philosophy & AI: Does AI Make Us Better Thinkers? Is AI making us better thinkers, or gradually doing our thinking for us? Join **Philosophy For All’s Alexandra Konoplyanik and Anja Steinbauer** in conversation with **Tom Berman, founder of [RationalGrid](https://rationalgrid.ai/)**, for a philosophical discussion about AI and its impact on how we think. Much of the current anxiety around AI concerns cognitive dependency: if we increasingly turn to machines for answers, explanations and arguments, do we risk losing the ability - or even the inclination - to think things through for ourselves? But is this an inevitable consequence of AI itself, or does it depend on how we use it, and how our AI tools are designed? Is AI a cognitive threat, or an opportunity? We’ll explore questions including: * Does outsourcing some cognitive work necessarily mean outsourcing our thinking? * When does AI support thinking, and when does it replace it? * Is the danger inherent in AI, or in the habits we develop when using it? * Does the design of an AI tool shape the kind of thinking we do with it? * Can AI help us notice assumptions, objections and possibilities that we might otherwise miss? * What is the difference between receiving a good answer and actually understanding something? * Could AI make us more intellectually passive, but also, if used differently, more questioning and reflective? * What would an AI genuinely designed for better thinking look like? Taking the risks of AI-assisted thinking seriously without assuming the verdict in advance, we’ll ask whether technologies such as general-purpose chatbots and tools specifically designed for exploration and critical thinking might affect our minds in importantly different ways. And ultimately: **does AI think for us, or can it help us think better for ourselves?** This event is sponsored by [The Royal Institute of Philosophy](https://royalinstitutephilosophy.org/). For the full programme of events pls see [pfalondon.org](http://pfalondon.org)

Conundrum Corner :: a place to discuss your dilemmas and others'

*this event is advertised elsewhere so there will be more people coming than stated* **✨ Welcome to Conundrum Corner at The Union Jack pub, Southwark! ✨** Step inside and join a gathering *of* open minds and kind hearts. Whether you bring a conundrum of your own that you are experiencing or simply your listening ear, you’ll find a welcoming space to share, reflect, and explore life’s tricky questions together. 🌿 **What to expect:** * You’re invited to share a conundrum, dilemma or question that you yourself are experiencing. * We’ll vote to choose a few intriguing ones to explore more deeply. * With a few extra details in hand, we’ll break into small groups for thoughtful discussion. * Then, we’ll come together as one big group to share insights, perspectives, and perhaps even some fresh solutions. The atmosphere is **analytical yet empathetic, thoughtful yet light-hearted**, and always non-judgmental. Whether your conundrum is personal, professional, or just a head-scratcher, we’re here to help unravel it together. 💸 There’s no set fee to attend, but we do ask for donations on the night to cover costs - which are warmly appreciated! 🍷 Please also support our lovely hosts, Jade and co., by buying yourself a drink at the bar (and food’s available if you fancy a bite). 💡 **What’s a conundrum, you ask?** A conundrum is any dilemma, crossroads, or confusion in your life—big or small. It could be a **"chicken and egg"** situation, a **"catch-22"**, or a **"have your cake and eat it"** kind of puzzle. Sometimes, life just throws us complex, messy questions—and that’s what we’re here to navigate together. Once our deep discussions wind down, we’ll slip into **pub mode**—a chance to relax, connect, and continue chatting with newfound friends. **🛡️ Code of Conduct - *please note*** Conundrum Corner is committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all attendees. Any abuse, harassment, or inappropriate behaviour towards other attendees, whether during the event or in any contact related to the event afterwards, will result in permanent removal from the Meetup group and exclusion from future events. Come along for an evening of intriguing conversations, fresh perspectives, and a touch of serendipity. Looking forward to seeing you there! Helena x

TEiP BATTERSEA • S1E7: WISDOM II | Thought Experiments in Public

Open minded discussions and the opportunity to learn from each other ❤️ This episode will explore the topic of 'WISDOM' by way of three original thought experiments written by TEiP founder, Bonny. They will be posted in the comments below on the day of the event. IMPORTANT: Meetup frequently glitches (and hikes organiser fees) so I've created a backup means of communication if we ever need to leave this platform. Please join! Comms will be minimal and you can unsubscribe at anytime: **[MAILING LIST](https://thoughtexperiments.kit.com/36b38902fa)** Hawkins Forge embodies our values: warm, welcoming, convivial, and a home to deep thinkers. The pub has boardgames and cards for the after party, and they’ve also **kindly offered us a deal on their Arrowsmiths Darts experience**: **30 minutes free for anyone who buys a drink after the event**. Spaces are limited, so get your ticket early if you want to be there 😊 **The idea:** A chance to meet and talk meaningfully about thought provoking topics. **How we'll do it** (timings approximate): * 7:00pm - Arrive at Hawkins Forge. We'll be in the private dining room - ask at the bar if you can't find us. * Organise ourselves into small groups (3-4) * Have a look at the **thought experiments** (announced on the day of the event) * 7:15 - First rotation begins - Talk about the first thought experiment, but feel free to pursue tangents and anecdotes. * 7:35 - Optional reshuffle: swap groups, move on to the second thought experiment. * 8:00 - Optional reshuffle: swap groups, move on to the third thought experiment. * 8:25pm - Wrap up - hear about upcoming events, feedback/requests for future meetups. * 8:30 Meetup ‘ends’. But feel free to carry on conversations. Usually a lot of us stay until late :-) **Notes on the general atmosphere**: * The vibe is to let conversation flow rather than stick strictly to one topic. * While we'd like to talk about 'meaningful things', we also see the value in lighter topics, so don't worry about not being 'deep' enough! * Feel free to suggest ideas for future Thought Experiments in Pubs meetup groups, both in terms of structure and topics to discuss. **Where we'll meet**: This group will be at Hawkins Forge, 5 minutes walk from Clapham Junction. We'll be in the private dining room - ask at the bar if you can't find us. **Who should come**: Everyone! We believe that the more perspectives, the richer the conversation. This group is not about being experts in Philosophy, it is about *doing* philosophy. That is, bringing our various life experiences and lenses on the world to group discussions about the human experience, the nature of reality... etc.... I'm so looking forward to meeting & talking with you in this beautiful location :-) \- Bonny Relevant links: **[SUBSTACK](https://experimentsingroupwisdom.substack.com/)** \- read more about this community and other related stuff **[MAILING LIST](https://thoughtexperiments.kit.com/36b38902fa)** \- backup in case meetup goes down **[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/thoughtexperimentsinpubs/)** \- see what our events look like **[WHATSAPP GROUP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DapwAXpnOHO5DRYThobpe4)** \- very occasional announcements

🏃‍♀️🧟‍♂️ Urban Zombie Survival - Infectious Game!💥

Zombies is a large-scale infectious outdoor tag game! 🏃 Evade zombies, pick up health packs, become the final survivor! If you're caught, you turn into a zombie and join the hunt! 🧟 If you like hilarious situations, outdoor fitness, social times, group activities, games, adventures, sports or new ways to exercise, you will love Zombies! Bonding over nearly dying is also a fantastic way to make friends for life! ❤️ 📍 **LOCATION/HOW TO FIND** 📍 Exit Barbican Underground station, turn left and walk up Aldersgate St for 1 min, then turn right onto Fann St. We'll meet on the corner opposite "The Shakespeare". 🚉 **Closest Stations** 🚉 \- Barbican \(Circle\) \- 4 minute walk \- Farringdon \(Elizabeth Line\) \- 7 minute walk 📍 [Meeting Location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ko8Zj6tpa9MrMr7j8) 💭 **WHAT TO BRING** 💭 \- 📱 **Download the [PlayCulture App Here](www.playculture.com/app)** \- ⚡ Have a fully charged phone \(app will need to stay on for the duration of the game\) \- 👟 Comfy shoes \(You will need to run as part of the game\) \- 🥤 Bottle of water ️🛍️ WHAT NOT TO BRING 🎒 Please try not to bring a bag/backpack as we don't have anywhere to store bags 🚀 **EVENT SCHEDULE** 🚀 \- Meet at 3:45PM \(at Barbican Station\) \- Walk to the meeting point \(Location shared above\) \- Brief on how the game works and the rules \- Game Starts: **4:15PM** \- Start with a shorter game session for everyone to help gain familiarity \- Move on to longer game sessions \- End by 6:45PM ⚡ **HOW DOES THE GAME WORK?** ⚡ This game uses the free PlayCulture App ([playculture.com/app](http://playculture.com/app)). Players divide into Survivors and Zombies. Survivors try to evade the Zombies (using the danger radar to see where they are), and can pick up health packs to stay alive for longer. If a Zombie gets too close they can infect you! If you get infected you become a Zombie and join the hunt! At the end you will see a leaderboard showing everyone’s scores 📜 **RULES** 📜 Zombies takes place in public spaces, so please remember these rules: \- Non\-players always have priority \- Safety first: don’t do anything to endanger yourself or anyone else \- Don’t run around blind corners or across roads\, no risk\-taking\! \- Be kind when you catch\, we're all on the same team\! **📋 Attendance Policy:** When an event has a **waiting list**, priority is given to new joiners and those with a reliable attendance record - *previous "No-Shows" may be moved to the waitlist to ensure spots go to reliable attendees [[why it matters](https://tinyurl.com/28sh83cn)]* ⛑️ **Disclaimer**: You are solely responsible for your own safety on these events and have the fitness level required for it. That you do not require special attention, medication or additional care. You are also responsible for your belonging at all times. **Follow us for updates:** 🌐 **[@Active.Muslims](https://www.instagram.com/active.muslims)**

THURSDAY NIGHT PUB QUIZ AT "THE QUEEN'S HEAD ".

*This Quiz is the same as the one at the Greyhound with the addition of a 20 question music round It starts at 8.30pm and entry is free!*