Introduction
I usually choose the topic, but a venue change disrupted the schedule. We considered Kant and Nietzsche, worrying that the discussion might become too diffuse. Weichen then suggested the absurd.
Here is his introduction:
For Camus, the absurd arises from a conflict between our wish for meaning, clarity, and order and a world that remains silent. How we face a universe that neither explains nor consoles seems central to the question.
In Kafka, the absurd takes another form. A person enters a world apparently governed by rules, authority, and judgment, yet cannot understand their origin, operation, or claim on their life.
The conflict between inward perception and reason and the external world raises further questions. Are we determined by fate, institutions, or structures, or do we retain free will? Must determination and freedom be opposites?
The absurd is not only a philosophical concept. It appears in literature, film, theater, and daily life: unanswered questions, failed communication, inexplicable setbacks, and moments when effort offers no explanation of the outcome.
For this session, bring a book, film, or difficulty from life and consider the absurd together.
Is the absurd really as simple as the world’s failure to answer us?
Philosophy & Society
Read the original article (Chinese) Original Event Information
Date and time: May 15, 2026 (Fri) 7:30 PM
Location: Sun County, 13407 NE 20th St suite 2, Bellevue
Topic: the absurd
Format: seated group discussion
Capacity: 30 people, including ten speakers and twenty observers
— Schedule —
Arrival and seating
Opening and introductions for new participants: briefly share a recent book, film, program, or piece of music you enjoyed (3 minutes each).
Bring a book, film, or lived difficulty to discuss through the theme of the absurd.
Registered speakers should prepare 5–10 minutes of material.
Group photo
— Registration —
https://forms.gle/4ju9ha1vde2Vh9XUA
Please use the registration link above.
Registration order is determined by the link above.
Your email is used only to send venue directions.
Find the account “别处读书会” on Xiaohongshu.
Find out about other events.
— Venue support —
The venue is supported by A17, an architecture and engineering alliance serving Greater Seattle, bringing together design, construction, and engineering from concept to completion. Its members include:
ARCADIA SPACE MAKER
Site planning, architecture, and landscape design, with integrated design services.
SUN COUNTY USA
General contracting, project management, and building-material supply for commercial and residential projects.
NW HVAC MECHANICAL
Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning engineering and solutions.
MTD ELECTRIC & PLUMBING
Electrical and plumbing engineering services.
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