Community

Community work and activism

In 2018, we developed a Philosophical Dialogue group with community workers and activists from the Dublin 8-12 region (Rialto, Fatima, Dolphin’s Barn, Inchicore). This included people working in Youth Projects, Drug Rehab organisations, Women’s shelters, Art-based organisations and more. This group was purposely invited due to their crucial role  at the intersection of community, education, and activism. The goal ultimately is to develop a methodology that can be used to equip participants with the skills required to establish their own philosophical communities. This group is still meeting weekly to this day, entering its fourth year. 

Originally developed by Dr. Robert Grant, Sen. Lynn Ruane and Dr. John Bissett. Both John and Lynn had established connections to the communities, and so were responsible for recruitment of participants. In the beginning, sessions were led by Dr. Robert Grant, with co-facilitation from both John and Lynn, eventually moving to co-facilitation by Rob and John, with Lynn providing support.

Key Aims: 

• Develop an ongoing practice of open, critical reflection for community workers on issues of fundamental importance.

• Provide community leaders with the space to question their assumptions and beliefs while learning from one another.

• Focus on the relationship between Theory and Action: how can philosophical reflection impact real practical changes for marginalised communities?

• Develop a safe and welcoming space for participants to authentically share ideas while feeling secure in having those ideas challenged.

• Introduce key themes and thinkers from philosophy as the basis for dialogue and conversation.