Based on their different settings, they are called Socrates Café, Philosophers' Club, these meetings take place all over the world.

[1] SPI is a grassroots nonprofit organization devoted to supporting philosophical inquirers of all ages and walks of life as they become more empathetic and autonomous thinkers who take active part in creating a more deliberative democracy.

Their gatherings - which, depending on the setting, occasion and purpose, have such names as Socrates Café, Philosophers’ Club, bring together people from a wide array of walks of life and experiences.

They take place in venues like parks, coffee houses, hospices, senior centers, nursing homes, prisons, plazas, bookstores, homeless shelters, community centers, libraries, schools, and other public spaces.

Board members include: Matthew Lipman, Robert Coles, Roy J. Nirschel, president of Roger Williams University, and Jacob Needleman, professor of philosophy.