You are invited to join us as we discuss beauty. What is beauty, and what does it mean? What, if anything, does it have to do with spirituality? How universal or parochial are standards of beauty and where do they come from? What has beauty meant in your life? When does the pursuit of beauty uplift us and when does it take us astray? Are there rightwing and leftwing approaches to beauty? Do other animals besides humans appreciate beauty, and when in our evolutionary past did beauty become important to our ancestors? Which senses are involved in the beautiful?

“Beauty is only the promise of happiness” —Stendhal (Marie‑Henri Beyle), 1822

“Beauty is a sign of what is beneficial.” —Nietzsche, misquoting Stendahl, 1887

Previously we discussed the arts, so this discussion might cover similar territory, but we’ll address beauty more broadly, including beauty in nature and in spirituality. All perspectives willingly discussed!

As always, you are welcome to view this topic and our previous topics going back to 2022 on our online page.

Upcoming Topics

April 23: “Cancel culture”

The 4th Principle Dialogue Group promotes the “free & responsible search for truth & meaning,” pursuing the congregational goal of Connected Community. We get to know each other and connect to each other through meaningful, open-hearted dialogue. Drop-ins welcome. Homework not required. See more in UU Connect.