Talks & Meetings
Contents
Cafe Scientifique
The British Science Association's Reading branch runs Cafe Scientifique meetings. (It is also listed on the University of Reading website. Scientific topics are covered at a level approachable by the lay person. The format is a talk of about 3/4 hour by an invited speaker, followed, after a short break, with questions from the audience. Talks are free (but since they are held in a pub participants are encouraged to buy a drink or food).
There are also Cafe Scientifiques in Basingstoke, Didcot, Henley-on-Thames, Oxford and Winchester
Skeptics in the Pub
Reading Skeptics in the Pub has talks, generally monthly, on topics covering science, comminication of science and critical thinking. The format is a talk of about 3/4 hour by an invited speaker, followed, after a short break, with questions from the audience. They are free but donations are solicited.
The Reading Skeptics website contains additional material but is no longer actively maintained.
There is also a Facebook page which lists coming events as well as itemss of general scientific/skeptical interest (also snark).
Library
Reading central library puts on talks (also listed on Facebook). They usually cost a few pounds, with discounts for library card holders.
University public lectures
Amongst events at the University are a series of public lectures.
One can sign up to a mailing list to find out about forthcoming events.
Green Drinks
Green Drinks is an informal meet-up for those who "work in the green/ethical sector or have a passion for those issues", in Global Cafe on the first Tuesday of each month any time from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. They also have a Facebook group.
Sunday Assembly
Sunday Assembly Reading is part of a wider Sunday Assembly movement. They hold meetings once a month on Sunday mornings, comprising live music, singing, talks, sometimes other activities, and refreshments.
They also organise social activities - sports, games etc - and community action - help for rough sleepers, refugees etc.
They have a Facebook group