A series of evening talks and discussion sessions is planned so as to foster exchanges on current affairs of a broad kind. Guest speakers are invited to explain an idea, in half an hour, and then to lead a discussion about it to engage the audience. Topics are expected to cover science, world affairs and any other topics people suggest.

The program will be launched with an initial series by Paul Dowling and Gordon Redding, and others will be added from guest speakers and residents as they are arranged.

The venue will be the ground floor room at the base of the Tower and the timing will be from 8pm to 9pm plus. Meetings will be on the first Tuesday of each month (subject to speaker availability).

Initial series:

6 Oct 2015. Prof. Gordon Redding. Why some countries are richer than others: an introduction to economic history.

3 Nov 2015. Prof. Gordon Redding. The amazing cool-water hypothesis: why Europe came to dominate the world.

2 Dec 2015. Prof Gordon Redding. The growth of China, and its coming dilemmas.

5 Jan 2016. Francisco Yeo (to be confirmed). The world of international charity work.

2 Feb 2016. Prof Paul Dowling. The unique nature of Japan.

1 March 2016. Prof. Gordon Redding. The puzzle of Islam: its wonders and its handicaps.

Further talks and discussions now being arranged. Volunteers welcome!