Long Island Great Books Council

Participating In A Great Books Discussion Group

WHY:

In its simplest explanation, a Great Books Discussion is for people who like to read and want to talk with other people about the books they have read. That description also fits many book discussion groups and so it doesn't completely define a Great Books Discussion, which has also been described with the names Text Centered Discussion or Shared Inquiry Discussion. This process can produce extraordinary results of new personal insights and a shared, almost communal, sense of achievement. The discussions do not seek consensus. Rather, they stimulate thought and fresh personal insights. Participation in a Great Books Discussion Group goes a long way toward supporting lifetime learning goals within a busy society. A sense of camaraderie and mutual respect often develops among long-term group members.

WHAT:

A Great Books Discussion usually consists of between 5 and 15 people who have read the same book and participate in the discussion as equals. There is a discussion leader, who was trained to facilitate a high quality discussion, but who does not participate as a discussant. The group explores significance, meanings, and preferences within the reading, and may evaluate the work in terms of their life experiences. Although persons with special knowledge are welcome, there are no experts at Great Books discussions.

The readings are self-selected by the group and the leader. They can range from classic literature and philosophy to contemporary works on any topic. The only requirement is that the work be suitable for group discussion purposes. This requirement usually implies a modest length, and sufficient idea content to sustain discussion.

WHO:

People from diverse lifestyles make valuable contributions to good discussions. Our objective is to have careful, thorough readers and articulate discussion members. All are welcome. Participation is not required.

WHERE:

Discussions are usually held in a room which can accommodate a near circular arrangement of chairs. Frequently, meetings are held at public libraries, office conference rooms or private homes. The group and leader will select a meeting location.

WHEN:

Usually, meetings will be held once a month on a regularly scheduled basis. Meetings last for two hours and will be held on a day and time which are acceptable to the vast majority of group members and to the leader. For example, the second Wednesday night of every month from 7:30 - 9:30 pm.

COST:

There is no fee to participate and one can participate without spending any money (by obtaining the readings from a local library). However, it is recommended that you purchase your own copy of each reading so that you can make extensive notes/comments inside your book (we will all read the same edition of a book to facilitate discussion).