By Meghan Streit
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

For centuries people all over the world have engaged in the fine art of intellectual debate.

Lively discussions about philosophy, religion, politics, art, and culture give all participants an opportunity to challenge their own ideas and maybe even learn something new by hearing someone else’s perspective.

An intellectually curious group of Sedgebrook community members is keeping the art of discussion alive by meeting on Friday mornings to discuss current events. The group is informal, and just about any topic is fair game. Participants bring newspaper and magazine articles they’ve read to the discussion, and take turns introducing topics.

Any topic is fair game
“We talk about Chicago issues, local issues, and international issues as well,” says Joe Yashon, a Sedgebrook community member who moderates the group.

The discussions at a recent meeting ranged from the conflict between Hamas and Fatah in Palestine to immigration policy reform to the proposed tax on cars driving into the loop in downtown Chicago.

The group draws on their varied personal and professional experiences to add to the discussion. They exchange ideas and challenge one another as they debate about the issues of the day. Since residents come from all walks of life—ranging from former educators to engineers—the conversation is always lively.

All walks of life
“I’m interested in other people’s opinions, and I’m also interested in expressing my own opinions,” says Earl Bengston, one of the members of the discussion group.

The debate is peppered with laughter, and people often stay after the meeting officially ends to continue discussion in smaller groups.

“It’s wonderful, and Joe is a very intelligent leader,” says June Lauter, who also attends the discussions.