Humanities West Book Discussion- Ming China 1368-1649: A Concise History of a Resilient EmpireCome chat with fellow Humanities lovers about John Dardess’ engaging exploration of how the Ming dynasty was able to endure for 276 years. Focusing on the dynasty’s foreign relations, the lives of its 16 emperors, its system of governance, the literati who served it, and the mass outlawry that allowed the Manchu invasions to succeed, Dardess presents a fascinating study. Lynn Harris will moderate the discussion. Read more »
Arts Forum Planning Meeting
Please join us and other arts enthusiasts for a discussion of programming ideas for the coming year. The Arts Member-Led Forum oversees Club programs in the fine arts, theater, dance, and music and hosts Club exhibitions. MLF: The ArtsLocation: SF Club OfficeTime: 5:30-7 p.m. planning meetingCost: FREEProgram Organizer: Lynn Curtis
Science & Technology Planning MeetingJoin fellow Club members with similar interests and brainstorm upcoming Science & Technology programs. All Commonwealth Club members are welcome. We explore visions for the future through science and technology. Discuss current issues and share your insights with fellow Club members to shape and plan programs for the months ahead.MLF: Science & TechnologyLocation: SF Club OfficeTime: 6:15 p.m.Read more »
Middle East Discussion Group
Make your voice heard in an enriching, provocative and fun discussion with fellow Club members as you weigh in on events shaping the face of the Middle East. Each month, the Middle East Member-Led Forum hosts an informal roundtable discussion on a topic frequently suggested by recent headlines. After a brief introduction, the floor will be open for discussion. All interested members are encouraged to attend. Read more »
Join fellow book lovers to discuss In Patagonia, by the late Bruce Chatwin, both a captivating travel narrative and an extraordinary literary meditation on the southern tip of South America, one of the most remote and exotic locations on the planet. Originally published in 1977, Chatwin's book continues to be seen as one of the great works of travel writing of the 20th century. Read more »
Holiday New Member Reception and Open House Are you new to The Club? Just want to explore and check it out? Come take a peek, meet other members and staff and learn about all The Club has to offer. Explore how our programs come together, volunteer opportunities, travel destinations and enjoy scrumptious light hors d’oeuvres. Bring a friend and explore The Club together! Existing Club members are welcome to attend to help us meet and greet and celebrate new members. Location: SF Club Office Read more »
The Finkler Question This program is sold out
Please join us as we discuss the 2010 Man Booker Prize winner, The Finkler Question, by Howard Jacobson. Set in modern-day London, the novel is described by The Washington Post as "a tragicomic meditation" on the nature of anti-Semitism. As a reminder, this is a book discussion group. The author will NOT be present. MLF: SF Book DiscussionLocation: SF Club OfficeTime: 5:30 p.m.Read more »
Lawrence Lessig
Director, the Edmond J. Safra Foundation Center for Ethics, Harvard University; Professor of Law, Harvard Law School; Author, Republic, Lost: How Money Corrupts Congress – and a Plan to Stop It
With the influx of private donations and corporate campaign expenditures continuing to balloon, trust in government is at an all-time low. Lessig discusses the evolution of our “economy of influence,” faulting both Democrats and Republicans and offering a plan to end corruption and restore our trust in the political system. Read more »