Anvil Discussion Group – The Philosophy of Ivan Illich

John Baxter will give a talk on “The Philosophy of Ivan Illich”. He was a much-lauded maverick thinker in the seventies, now almost forgotten, but may have ideas which are useful for the times we now face.

A new discussion group has been established in Martock called “Anvil” which meets on the fourth Friday of the month at 10am to 12noon in the Function Room of The George coffee shop. It is a continuation of a group of the same name which met successfully for seven years in Wincanton. We intend to discuss serious, important subjects, mostly in the areas of Philosophy, Science and Current Affairs, and often controversial. No prior knowledge is necessary, and the speakers will be aware of that. We welcome those who wish to participate in the discussions in a non-confrontational manner, but also those who wish to just listen. The format is that in the first period we have a talk, followed by a short refreshments break, and then a general discussion. We aim to conduct penetrating and enlightening discussion which is not confrontational, to understand other opinions even if we disagree, and perhaps in so doing to modify our own opinions.

We welcome adults of any age from Martock and beyond who have free time during the day.

There is no subscription, committee, or any other type of cumbersome bureaucracy, and our organisation is gender balanced, but we intend to levy a charge of £3 to £5 at each meeting to cover room rental and refreshments, depending on attendance. We aim for understanding and education in its broadest sense, rather than just social interaction.