We had a very good meeting yesterday [Edit: The e-mail was dated 4th. March.] with a discussion well up the the standards we expect at humanist meetings. I hope that you found it interesting and useful if you came.

Jenny Patient, one of the speakers from the Sheffield Campaign Against Climate Change, mentioned a forthcoming meeting about nuclear power and I think it may be of interest to people on this news group. The details Jenny sent me are:

The date of the nuclear debate is now confirmed:- Wednesday 28th - 7 pm - 8.30 pm Contact: david@solar-active.com David Garlovsky
Venue:- Sheffield Hallam University - new building - Furnival-Room 9130.

Purpose:- A debate with both sides of the argument equally represented in order that a balanced view of both arguments can be made - to include facts, figures, and evidence presented for the audience to arrive at their own position on the topics of nuclear and renewables. A debate to assist one to make an informed decision about electricity and energy usage and resource. The facts on nuclear power opened up and the pros and cons debated. For example, will nuclear assist the UK to:a) meet its carbon reduction target more quickly? b) secure safe and affordable energy supplies? c) create more sustainable employment [renewables vs. nuclear]

The four main presenters have been confirmed: Sean Morris, Michael Bayley, John Grant and Dr Russell Hand. Back-up presenters have also been approached.

Each presenter will have 5 minutes to make their case. Questions from the audience with questions allowed to be received prior to the debate.

Dave
PS The next humanist meeting is about the work of the Samaritans. I will send out the details soon.

Paul1 wrote:You expect human beings to walk up those bloody hills to Eccesall?!

Should we worry about Faith Schools? Prof. John Coldron, Sheffield Hallam University

Faith schools are a big concern for Humanists. Many restrict pupils' development by putting belief before observation and exploration. We know how much damage sectarian schools do in Northern Ireland and we have great concerns about creating more schools that can provide more social division. Faith schools are also used for back door segregation so that pushy parents can create and gain access to selective schools.

Are these concerns justified or do faith schools offer a high quality education with good social and moral integration as they claim? John Coldron, Director of the Centre for Education and Inclusion Research with particular research experience in the field of parents and schools, will let us know if we should worry about faith schools.

The meeting is at 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday 2nd June at the University Arms, 197 Brook Hill, Sheffield, S3 7HG

The University Arms is close to the tram, get off at the Sheffield University stop, and several buses pass nearby including 51 & 52, stopping almost next to the pub, with 94 & 95 a short walk away. Parking is available in the streets behind the pub.

You can see a map of the location with this link: http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=univers ... +sheffield

Everybody welcome but only members can vote or stand for election.

You can join before the meeting.

james1v wrote:Bugger, i am working in london next week.