A facilitator's guide to running meetings and keeping your group going.
These are suggestions, not requirements. Member stoas agree only to our
Terms and Conditions; beyond that,
build the group that best serves your community.
Looking for the monthly Facilitator Roundtable, the podcast, or guides
for special events? See our
Facilitator Resources.
Section One
Ground Rules
Many facilitators find that laying out a few ground rules at the start of
each meeting, and enforcing them gently but firmly, helps the group run
smoothly for everyone. For example:
Stoicism is a cosmopolitan philosophy, so the group is open to anyone.
We're here to explore Stoicism. Stay focused, and avoid drifting into
general philosophical or political debates.
Use the meeting to practice the four cardinal virtues:
wisdom (navigate a difficult discussion
wisely), courage (speak up and
contribute), justice (treat others
fairly and with respect), and
temperance (don't speak too little or
too much).
If you've spoken a lot, pause before chipping in again so others have a
chance.
The only things not tolerated are intolerance and rudeness, which may
lead to temporary or permanent removal from the group.
The Socratic method, or elenchus (cross-examination), is one of
the best ways to run a fruitful, enjoyable discussion in a small group.
Rather than making long statements, the facilitator asks probing
questions, perhaps mixed with short explanations. A thesis (for example,
from the week's reading) is examined, alternatives are proposed and
examined in turn. Often the result is aporia, a state of
uncertainty that the ancients considered the beginning of wisdom.
Briefly explain how the method works, so participants know what to
expect.
After you ask a question, be comfortable with silence. People need time
to think and to work up the courage to speak.
Expect some “productive discomfort”: the method may lead
people to question their own beliefs.
Use follow-up questions to explore the topic further.
You're not the sage on the stage. You stand to learn from the
discussion like everyone else.
Welcome unusual ideas; discourage ones that aren't serious or that pull
the group off topic.
Share the planning, but lead. Most
people want to participate, not organize. Ask members for topic ideas,
but use your judgment about what will work.
Keep it interesting for you, too.
Facilitators burn out less when some topics reflect their own
interests.
Vary topics and voices. Rotate topics
and presenters, and invite an outside speaker from time to time, such as
a philosophy or history faculty member from a local college.
Announce every meeting. Post each
meeting on your event platform with a link to RSVP and to any suggested
reading.
Make room to socialize. If you can,
follow the meeting with an informal social. Connection is a big part of
why people come.
Don't take attendance personally. Some
people become regulars; others show up now and then. That's the nature
of the thing.