The Royal Philosophical Society of Glasgow
The Royal Philosophical Society of Glasgow was founded in 1802, when the term ‘philosophy’ meant knowledge in the broadest sense. The Society provides stimulating lectures and discussion for members on a great diversity of topics. If you are someone who enjoys learning about what is happening in the world around you, being introduced to new discoveries and exposed to new ideas, and are not already a member, then join us and expand your horizons!
Our programme starts on the 2nd of October with Richard Ovenden, Bodley’s Librarian, speaking on Burning the Books: knowledge under attack from Ancient Assyria to the age of AI
On the 16th October Sir Jim Smith will be talking on How lessons from frogs help mend a broken heart.
On the 30th October we have a talk by Professor Marika Taylor who will be speaking on – From black holes to quantum computers
Membership is FREE for full-time students and the under 25’s >
Member reviews of some of our recent talks are available below:
Back to the beginning of time; exploring the mysteries of star and galaxy formation with the James Webb Space Telescope a talk by Dr David Rosario – Review by Croy Thomson
Everest East Side Story a talk by Stephen Venables – Review by Croy Thomson
Why we should think about the relationship between climate change and mental health in Scotland a talk by Professor Hester Parr – Review by Croy Thomson
All the world’s a play… a talk by David Edgar – Review by Croy Thomson
Towards a Public Bio-Ethics… a talk by Professor Sarah Cunningham-Burley – Review by Croy Thomson
All the world’s a play… a talk by David Edgar – Review by Croy Thomson
Members’ visits
Our members’ trip to visit one of our sister societies in Belfast took place in May and our Gardens trip “Pentlands to Portrack” was in June. Both of these were very successful and thoroughly enjoyable.
The Belfast trip included a tout of Stormont.
Our annual soiree will take place at the Hunterian Museum, University of Glasgow on Wednesday 25th September 2024. As mentioned at the AGM, this will be focused on Lord Kelvin, who twice served as the RPSG President and had a long association with Glasgow University . This year is the 200th anniversary of Lord Kelvin’s birth, and the evening will include a lecture and a opportunity to view some of his scientific instruments. Full details will be circulated to members in due course.
From Our YouTube Channel
We have many videos of previous lectures and some about the society on our YouTube channel >
Active Since 1802 to the Present Day
Join the Society
Membership brings free access to all talks as well as other benefits. After each talk you can meet the lecturer and other society members over a glass of wine.
MEMBERSHIP IS FREE FOR STUDENTS AND UNDER 25’S