Upcoming Events
November 4–8, 2009

This week's events are held in West, Southwest and Mid Michigan.
Visit the Online Calendar for details and maps. Download a Printable Calendar (pdf)

Southwest Michigan

Darwin: Then & Now

November 4, 2009, 7:30pm - 9:00pm
Portage District Library - Gourdneck Lake Room, 300 Library Lane, Portage, MI

Presented by Carl Bajema, PhD, Professor of Biological Sciences, Grand Valley State University

The Origin of Species was published 150 years ago on November 23, 1859. Darwin presented the scientific case for evolution and that the designs we observe in nature are due to the action of natural and sexual selection operating on variations.

Carl Bajema's presentation will review the case for evolution made by Darwin 150 years ago and showcase the major advances that have occurred with respect to the scientific understanding of evolution. He will also discuss the role that natural and sexual selection plays with respect to adaptations (designs) for surviving and reproducing.

·  Cost: $6 suggested donation to help cover costs. Free for Friends of the Center.
·  Contact: Jeannine Shafer, jshafer@centerforinquiry.net, 269-329-1052

Café Inquiry

November 6, 2009, 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Panera Bread, 5970 S. Westnedge Ave, Portage, MI

Join us for socializing and casual discussion. Drinks, snacks and sandwiches will be available for purchase.

·  Cost: Individuals are responsible for purchasing their own food and drinks.
·  Contact: Jeannine Shafer, jshafer@centerforinquiry.net, 269-329-1052

Mid Michigan

The Science of Discrimination

November 5, 2009, 7:30pm – 9:00pm
Michigan State University Union, Third Floor, Lake Ontario Room, E. Lansing, MI

Presented by Joe Bochinski, MSU

Many non-believers have experienced or know someone who has experienced discrimination. Many people like to chalk up discrimination against atheists up to religious indoctrination. But since the time of the civil rights movement scientists have been seeking answers to why we discriminate and how it works. Through the science of prejudice and stereotyping we'll take a look at the leading research on the subject and what we can do to change peoples' minds.

Joseph Bochinski is a board member of CFI MSU and senior in psychology at Michigan State University. His current areas of research are relationships, aggression, stereotyping, prejudice, and affective neuroscience.

·  Free parking is available in MSU Parking Ramp 6 after 6 pm.
·  Cost: Free for students and Friends of the Center. $6 general admission.
·  Contact: Christian Orlic, msu@centerforinquiry.net, 517-575-7461

West Michigan

Movie Night - Gran Torino

November 4, 2009, 7:00pm–10:00pm
Home of Jason Pittman, 740 Lockwood Street NE, Grand Rapids, MI

This week's movie night will feature Gran Torino.
Socializing and discussion will follow the movie.

·  Please BYOB and snack to share.
·  Please RSVP via e-mail or phone to Jason Pittman, jpittman@centerforinquiry.net, (616) 634-2471.

Movie Synopsis

Walt Kowalski is a recent widower and the Korean War veteran filled with prejudice. Walt's prized possession is a 1972 Gran Torino that he keeps in mint condition. When his neighbor Thao, a young Hmong teenager, is pressured by gang members into stealing Walt's Gran Torino, Walt sets out to reform the youth and is unwillingly drawn into the life of Thao's family.

Café Inquiry

November 8, 2009, 10:00am–12:00pm
Schuler Books, 3165 Alpine Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI

Café Inquiry is a casual event starting with a short 10-15 minute introduction of the day's topic followed by open discussion. At 11:15 we'll break for coffee/brunch and a chance to socialize.

Members are welcome to propose and schedule a topic which would be of interest toward establishing a secular society based on science, reason, freedom of inquiry, and humanist values. Please contact Bob if you have a topic that you would like to discuss at an upcoming Café Inquiry.

Contact: Bob Collins, bobpsy@yahoo.com, 616-638-1957.

About CFI Michigan

Mission Statement

The mission of Center for Inquiry | Michigan is to foster a secular society based on science, reason, freedom of inquiry, and humanist values.

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Volunteers are vital to the success of CFI Michigan. Learn more about how you can help.

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Friend of the Center membership entitles you to benefits including free or discounted event admission, 15% off Prometheus books, and a CFI window decal. Join now!

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