To celebrate World Philosophy Day this year, New Acropolis London hosted a panel discussion on the theme: “How can we achieve more unity despite our diversity?”

The panel consisted of Stuart Linke, a consultant clinical psychologist and writer on traditional Jewish practices; Grace Graham, a leadership development specialist focusing on the professional growth of women and people from ethnic minorities; and Sabine Leitner, chair of New Acropolis School of Philosophy in London.

Questions asked by the moderator, Sofia Venuti, included: How would you describe this sense of unity beyond differences? What are the things that prevent us from living these ideals? What can we do to develop this sense of unity within ourselves as individuals? And what can we do to develop this sense of unity within our communities?

The panellists, with their different approaches, came up with some interesting answers to these questions, highlighting fear as a major factor in creating barriers between people, and the importance of honest self-reflection and the effort to improve oneself as one of the best ways to establishing fruitful dialogue with others.

The event was attended by 56 people of different ages, ethnicities and points of view, who had the opportunity to put their own questions to the panellists at the end of the discussion. This was followed by a buffet where participants could engage in more informal conversations with the panellists and each other – a great opportunity to practise the art of open dialogue and establish new friendships!