Chapter: Conversational Spaces


Our debates were to be conducted in the sincere spirit of inquiry after truth, without fondness for dispute or desire of victory.

Credit: Benjamin Franklin’s Autobiography

In this chapter, I explore various clubs, networks, and forums that have existed in the past or thrive today. These “spaces” serve as platforms for individuals to come together and engage in conversations, both in person and online.



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Introduction: Conversational Spaces Meeting places for conversations

Terminology First, let’s consider the terminology. People have gathered in various settings for conversation and social interaction throughout history. These settings include coffeehouses, salons, clubs, and, even in ancient times, around campfires. There is a need for a generic term to capture the essence of these places in a broad sense. Commonly used words to … Continue reading Introduction: Conversational Spaces Meeting places for conversations

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The London Coffeehouses of the Enlightenment Centers of Enlightenment thinking

The London coffeehouses of the 17th & 18th centuries were the engines of creation that helped drive the Enlightenment – the European intellectual movement that emphasized reason and individualism rather than tradition. Their history is a fascinating one. Modern-day coffee shops such as Starbucks, Costa Coffee, and Caffè Nero have their roots in the coffeehouses … Continue reading The London Coffeehouses of the Enlightenment Centers of Enlightenment thinking

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British Gentlemen’s Clubs ** Of the 17th and 18th Centuries

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Britain witnessed the rise of various gentlemen’s clubs, which served as hubs for intellectual discourse, socializing, and the exchange of ideas. These clubs played a significant role in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of the time. The clubs that emerged during Britain’s 17th and 18th centuries profoundly impacted … Continue reading British Gentlemen’s Clubs ** Of the 17th and 18th Centuries

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Benjamin Franklin’s Junto Club Benjamin Franklin founded the Junto Club - a conversational society in 1727

Benjamin Franklin recognized the value of conversation and the importance of cognitive diversity in convening innovative conversations when he founded the Junto Club almost 300 years ago. In 1727, at the age of 21, Benjamin Franklin, who went on to become was one of the founding fathers of the United States, founded the Junto Club. … Continue reading Benjamin Franklin’s Junto Club Benjamin Franklin founded the Junto Club – a conversational society in 1727

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Stammtisch Tables Tables in pubs or restaurants reserved for regulars

The word Stammtisch is German. A Stammtisch is both a group of people, who meet regularly in a bar or restaurant, as well as the large table, around which the group gathers. Stammtisch tables are reserved for regular customers at which they hold friendly get-togethers. There are various types of Stammtisch groups. People may gather … Continue reading Stammtisch Tables Tables in pubs or restaurants reserved for regulars

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The Dewaniya ** A reception area where a Kuwaiti man receives his business colleagues and male guests

The dewaniya – a form of Kuwaiti Knowledge Cafe? During my recent trip to Kuwait, I discovered a feature unique to Kuwaiti culture – a dewaniya. While running a Knowledge Café workshop, someone commented: “So the Knowledge Cafe is a little like a dewaniya.” – to which I replied, “What’s a dewaniya?” It was explained … Continue reading The Dewaniya ** A reception area where a Kuwaiti man receives his business colleagues and male guests

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Death Café At a Death Café people drink tea, eat cake and discuss death

A Death Café is an informal gathering that encourages open conversations about death, dying, and related topics. It provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their thoughts, fears, and experiences while embracing diverse perspectives and exploring various cultural, spiritual, and practical aspects of mortality. The purpose is to promote death literacy, increase … Continue reading Death Café At a Death Café people drink tea, eat cake and discuss death