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November | Truth tellersJoin an online Circle hosted by TEDWant to change climate change? Host TED Circles about Countdown
J. Marshall Shepherd3 kinds of bias that shape your worldview
Conversation starters
- Of the three biases, which do you think people (yourself included) succumb to the most and why?
- Was there a time when you didn’t believe something (big or small) was real when it actually was? What convinced you otherwise?
- Where do you get your science news and information? Why do you trust that forum? Take a moment to share and discover each other’s different sources.
- What influences shape your biases? Reflect then make a list, citing how you can overcome them.
Alex EdmansWhat to trust in a post-truth world
Conversation starters
- Edmans says that “we accept a story uncritically if it confirms what we'd like to be true. And we reject any story that contradicts it. How often do we see this in the stories that we share and ignore?” Do you agree with this? Why or why not?
- Can you recall any recent headlines or viral social media posts that do not pass Edmans’ 4-point test? Where do they fall short? Additional resource: Michael Patrick Lynch's Talk
- It’s easy to accept persuasion in place of expertise. What are the dangers of this, and how can tips from Edman’s talk help prevent you from being falsely influenced in the future?
- If we’re living in a “post-truth” world, what would a pro-truth world look like to you? What can we actively do ourselves (or actively give up doing) to advance it in our own lives?
Deborah LipstadtBehind the lies of Holocaust denial
Conversation starters
- Why do you think people deny the existence of horrible things?
- What are your thoughts on the rise in mashing facts, opinions and lies?
- Have you encountered deniers in your own life? Whether historical or contemporary events, discuss the patterns you’ve noticed (and solutions, if possible).
- Does Lipstadt inspire you to uphold the truth in the face of denial? Explain. Additional resource: Alexander Wagner's Talk
Julia ShawHow to support witnesses of harassment and build healthier workplaces
Conversation starters
- What surprised you most about Shaw’s talk, and why?
- Shaw lists five ways that organizations can better support victims of and witnesses to harrassment and discrimination. Does your workplace have these tools in place? If not, what are they lacking? Can you foresee a way to introduce them? Additional resource: Stephanie Busari's Talk
- Do you think this video has increased your likelihood of reporting incidents of harassment and discrimination that you have witnessed? Why or why not?
- What questions did this talk spark for you, if at all, and where might you find those answers?
Upcoming months
December | Building momentumJoin an online Circle hosted by TEDWant to change climate change? Host TED Circles about Countdown
Matt GoldmanThe search for aha moments
Conversation starters
- Describe the feeling of an aha moment to you. Is there a pattern (a specific time, place, etc.) to when you usually have them?
- How could you better create the conditions for aha moments in your own life?
- Where in society do you think reshaping the environment would have the most beneficial results for creativity and innovation? Suggestions can be as serious (or silly) as you can muster.
- What would be your ideal space (imagined, real, or in-between) for aha moments to flourish?
Rana Abdelhamid3 lessons on starting a movement from a self defense trailblazer
Conversation starters
- Abdelhamid builds momentum by starting with what she knows, Shotokan karate. What skill or talent (big or small) do you have? Would you be willing to teach it to others in your Circle?
- Abdelhamid started with who she knew and shared her skills with others who expanded that reach. What are the strengths (and limitations) of building momentum with this train-the-trainer approach?
- The third lesson was starting with joy. Abdelhamid felt joy from seeing women in her community support one another. What brings you joy? How has it inspired your journey?
- Is there something you’ve been wanting to start? How might these lessons help you launch your idea?
Bunker RoyLearning from a barefoot movement
Conversation starters
- Where have you been most surprised to find your best ideas?
- Was there a time your perspective changed on the definition of a professional? (e.g. a cook in your family, delivery person, neighborhood handyman, etc.)
- Roy’s curriculum includes democracy, citizenship, land measurement, and more. What lessons (from school and life) do you believe help us build momentum for ourselves and our communities?
- How can you create versions of Roy’s Barefoot College in your own life?
Thomas CrowtherThe global movement to restore nature's biodiversity
Conversation starters
- Crowther shares that in his excitement to share his landmark research, he oversimplified his message and put the legacy of the work in jeopardy. Have you had costly moments of miscommunication, big or small? What were they? What lessons have you drawn from them?
- The “Restor” platform adds artificial intelligence to lessons from those working in the field to develop strategies and identify insights to empower the restoration movement worldwide. What other epic pairings of human ingenuity and modern technology can you think of that have (or could) work to improve our lives?
- Restoration, as Crowther explains, is not a silver bullet. It alone cannot solve our climate crisis. What are some of the ways that your community is addressing the problem at the individual, neighborhood, or governmental level?
- What’s your favorite forest, tree, or plant? Why?
Previous months
October | Everyone's environmentJoin an online Circle hosted by TEDWe can change climate change. #JointheCountdown
Per Espen StoknesHow to transform apocalypse fatigue into action on global warming
Conversation starters
- What type of appeal — emotional, fact-based, story-centered, ethical, etc. — works best to convince you to do something?
- Before this talk, how did you feel about engaging in conversations about climate change — did you fit into one of the five inner defenses? How do you feel after watching this talk?
- Discuss ways to incorporate Stoknes’ strategies into conversations with those in your life who may feel apocalypse fatigue. Propose hypothetical (or real) situations and Stoknes-inspired opportunities to counter them.
- Are there organizations and climate activists you love or admire who are already using Stoknes’ techniques? If yes, share them and what they do. If no, brainstorm ways (such as a social media campaign or a reach out email) to encourage these individuals / groups to incorporate a different angle inspired by Stoknes.
Tom Rivett-CarnacHow to shift your mindset and choose your future
Conversation starters
- Rivett-Carnac describes how sometimes, when we are faced with an enormous challenge that we don't feel we have any control over, we begin to think it’s not an important issue, that maybe it’s not happening how people describe it or that it’s too big a problem so it’s not worth trying. Have you ever found yourself in one of these situations? Will you now approach those situations differently? Why or why not?
- In discussing the climate crisis, Rivett-Carnac says, “we can no longer afford the luxury of feeling powerless.” Why is powerlessness a luxury in this instance?
- Has there been a moment in your life, be it solo or collaborative, at work or at school, or at home or in your community, when stubborn optimism and determined action led to a much-needed change? If so, share with the group. Are there any commonalities among your approaches?
- Once we have rallied behind a cause (with stubborn optimism), what kinds of actions are necessary to see it through? It may be helpful to think of a cause or issue as a group (be it tackling climate change or coordinating a themed TEDx event) and think through a process.
Cheryl HolderThe link between climate change, health, and poverty
Conversation starters
- In Holder’s community, the climate crisis is visible through significant health effects (as noted in the “Heatwave” mnemonic) and gentrification. Is the climate crisis visible in your community or your own life yet? If so, how is it showing up?
- Holder outlines several steps that nurses, doctors, and pharmacists can take to lead a medical response to climate change. What are some actions that your own industry or peer group can do (or are doing) to meet this current challenge? Additional resource: Angela Francis' Talk
- “Our lives are not only vulnerable but are stories of resilience, innovation and survival” says Holder. In a few decades, what is the story that you think will be told about the climate crisis? Will it be one of resilience, innovation, survival or defeat?
- Holders recounts the collective effort to turn the tide on the HIV epidemic, while Rivett-Carnac draws inspiration from Great Britain’s resolve during WWII. What other historic precedents would you compare to our present moment, or use to persuade others that this is a struggle in which we can ultimately be victorious? And how do the themes of Rivett-Carnac’s talk reemerge in Holder’s impassioned presentation?
Kelsey LeonardWhy lakes and rivers should have the same rights as humans
Conversation starters
- How will you feel about water moving forward after watching Leonard’s talk?
- How do you feel about companies having the same rights as people — did it surprise you, anger you, etc.? Do you agree that water should have those same protections?
- Does this idea exist or has it been acted upon where you are? If not, is there a way to contact your representatives or rally organizations to consider it? Use Leonard’s action items at the end to help you brainstorm.
- Beyond bodies of water, what other parts of nature do you believe should have the same legal rights as people? Why?
September | Leading with curiosityJoin an online Circle hosted by TED
Nadya MasonHow to spark your curiosity scientifically
Conversation starters
- How much do you experiment with the world around you? What did this talk make you want to test?
- What were your favorite homemade science experiments as a kid and why?
- What could happen if scientists were encouraged to experiment in this way? Additional resource: Suzie Sheehy | The case for curiosity-driven research
- What could happen if students were encouraged to experiment this way? Additional resource: Ramsey Musallam | 3 rules to spark learning
Juna KollmeierThe most detailed map of galaxies, black holes and stars ever made
Conversation starters
- What is your favorite thing to imagine that may exist in space (e.g. true Earth-like planets, aliens, space squids, or something else)?
- Are there any photographs, books, television shows, movies, myths or news stories that have captured your curiosity in a way that have made you want to learn about space?
- What is something that initially scared you but fascinated you once you learned more about it?
- What do you think we’ll learn or discover in the next 100 years?
Özlem CekicWhy I have coffee with people who send me hate mail
Conversation starters
- Why do you think those who sent Cekic hate mail agreed to meet her for coffee?
- In her appearance on TED Radio Hour, Cekic says she participates in #dialoguecoffee because she “really, really loves democracy.” She adds, “Conversation is difficult, but it is the most necessary thing in a democracy.” Do you agree or disagree with this latter statement? Why or why not?
- How can you engage in a healthy dialogue with groups you demonize? Weigh the pros and cons of each approach.
- In spaces where you think you have no power or influence, why do you feel powerless? What are some ways, big or small, that can enact your potential and change that perception?
Eduardo BriceñoHow to get better at the things you care about
Conversation starters
- How often are you in the learning zone versus the performance zone?
- Share a time from your life that demonstrates the learning zone/performance zone principle. What did you have to learn and practice and how did you demonstrate your mastery of it?
- What’s one skill or practice you would like to improve in your life right now? How can you ensure that you will spend more time in the learning zone for that topic?
- Would you want to see your workplace or school offering space to experiment and take risks? If yes, what might this look like for your specific context? If not, why not?
August | How change happens
Kelly Richmond PopeHow whistleblowers shape history
Conversation starters
- Has this talk altered your view on whistleblowing? If so, how? If not, why not?
- Richmond Pope notes that, in her experience, whistleblowers are hopeful, committed, humble and brave, yet are often described as anything but. What powers and dynamics are at play that lead to the vilification of these truth tellers?
- As Richmond Pope asked, “When given the opportunity, would you actually speak up?” Take a moment to consider the hypothetical scenario and circumstances as you explain your answer.
- Have you had a first hand experience involving the act of whistleblowing? Share with the group.
Megan Ming FrancisWe need to address the real roots of racism
Conversation starters
- Ming Francis observes we have the wrong diagnosis (bad apples) and the wrong cure (education) for racism. Why is it that education alone is not enough?
- Aside from validating Ming Francis’ experience, what else could the bystander airport worker (who noted the agent’s history of racist behavior) have done in this instance?
- Ming Francis encourages us to “confront the ways that our actions and our institutions lead to a differential treatment of Blacks, even if done unintentionally.” On an individual and country-wide scale, how can you confront inequitable treatment of any group of people? Additional resource: Dolly Chugh | How to let go of being a good person and become a better person
- What actions are you willing to take to fight racism at the institutional level (e.g. racial profiling, discriminatory hiring policies ) or interpersonal level (e.g. locking doors when Black people approach, internalizing biases that engender complacency)?
Naomi KleinHow shocking events can spark positive change
Conversation starters
- Why do some events inspire longstanding action and change while other big moments seem to fade without the same impact?
- Can you name any economic, social or other crises that have occurred in your country? What was the response? Give us your perspective on the outcome.
- Which crises in your country or community do you wish held onto their initial momentum? How do you think the present would be different had they continued to galvanize change? How could you bring those thoughts and actions into the future?
- How have shocking events in your personal life helped you to evolve?
Halla Tomasdottir & Bryn FreedmanThe crisis of leadership and a new way forward
Conversation starters
- In your life — in big and small ways — have you noticed the “crisis of conformity” Tómasdóttir mentioned at the beginning of the interview? If so, how?
- Are you seeing evidence of the “new leadership” Tómasdóttir speaks of — courageous, humble, moral and socially aware — in your own country and communities creating effective, long-term impact? If so, share an example. If not, why do you think it’s missing?
- What do you think will transform after the global crises we’re experiencing now?
- How could you incorporate Tómasdóttir’s perspectives and outlook into your own life and community?
Suggest other themes and talks here
Find a TED Circle
The Circles listed below are registered by hosts who invite their own guests. If you want to attend a Circle, join one hosted by our team! Also find out what Circles are discussing by visiting our community takeaways.
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- BLI Community and Social ImpactOnline23 Nov 2020
- Mehak SheikhOnline23 Nov 2020
- VOICESOnline23 Nov 2020
- Ruoqing ManBeijing23 Nov 2020
- Vet SustainOnline23 Nov 2020
- Winston LiewOnline23 Nov 2020
- Lead from InsightsOnline23 Nov 2020
- Vickey RajOnline23 Nov 2020
- VIVA Forum Initiative Hong KongOnline23 Nov 2020
- TEDxBanburyOnline23 Nov 2020
- Taisha O’NealCharlotte23 Nov 2020
- PINE CREST TED ED CLUBFort Lauderdale24 Nov 2020
- Prerna FoundationOnline24 Nov 2020
- Janani ArulmaniCincinnati24 Nov 2020
- T-Minus 30Online24 Nov 2020
- T-Minus 30Colchester24 Nov 2020
- Love University CorpOnline24 Nov 2020
- Prerna FoundationMumbai24 Nov 2020
- Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library - New York Public LibraryOnline24 Nov 2020
- TEDxLancasterLancaster24 Nov 2020
- TEDxBoardingSchoolofHumanitiesAktanysh24 Nov 2020
- TEDxUCincinnatiCincinnati24 Nov 2020
- TEDxSunnyvaleOnline25 Nov 2020
- Shena NicoleOnline25 Nov 2020
- The ConfidenceVaultOnline25 Nov 2020
- Samrah Azam ChaudhriIslamabad25 Nov 2020
- Pippi DurieLondon25 Nov 2020
- Doria Esther BenaimCaracas25 Nov 2020
- Cinthia LambaCologne25 Nov 2020
- Johan StuveOnline25 Nov 2020
- TEDxNantesOnline25 Nov 2020
- Helene Carpentier and Joanna LeydenOnline25 Nov 2020
- Paramita High School's TED-Ed ClubOnline25 Nov 2020
- Ireremena Felix-OtuorimuoOnline25 Nov 2020
- Octavio Padilla and Miguel MarinOnline25 Nov 2020
- Help_2_HiredMelbourne25 Nov 2020
- XR BanburyOnline25 Nov 2020
- Idea SparringOnline25 Nov 2020
- Mohamed SalemOnline25 Nov 2020
- Aaron LanderosMexico City26 Nov 2020
- Green DiosaBuenos Aires26 Nov 2020
- Juliette Magnier and Adrien Doridant and Stella CristoforoniOnline26 Nov 2020
- Tracy CurrieOnline26 Nov 2020
- Judy JiangShanghai26 Nov 2020
- Psikocoaching ConsultingOnline26 Nov 2020
- Elica AvanteOnline26 Nov 2020
- Victoria Perez ValinoBuenos Aires26 Nov 2020
- Johan StuveOnline26 Nov 2020
- Olive MurphyOnline26 Nov 2020
- Diana Guzmán-Caro and Claudia Murillo, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del RosarioOnline26 Nov 2020
- Diana Guzmán-Caro and Claudia MurilloOnline26 Nov 2020
- Winston LiewOnline26 Nov 2020
- Lyn JardineOnline26 Nov 2020
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- TEDxSantaCruzdelaSierraOnline26 Nov 2020
- Sinead WelshOnline26 Nov 2020
- Salomé Bideau and Rita ChidoubOnline26 Nov 2020
- Anand Upender27 Nov 2020
- Lois Sharbel and Sandra LawlerOnline27 Nov 2020
- Nicoló CodifsvaOnline27 Nov 2020
- Philip SmithWaukesha27 Nov 2020
- Irene MantovaniMilano27 Nov 2020
- Irene MantovaniMilano27 Nov 2020
- Neil RobinsonSingapore27 Nov 2020
- ECO2PROYECTOSLima27 Nov 2020
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- LeaderlixOnline27 Nov 2020
- Iain ForsythOnline27 Nov 2020
- Rasha ShanazOnline28 Nov 2020
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- Irdina JailaniOnline28 Nov 2020
- Samuel PruittOnline28 Nov 2020
- Anousha MohonVacoas28 Nov 2020
- Inder SpaceOnline28 Nov 2020
- STF Training educational institutionShenyang28 Nov 2020
- TEDxXinyiTaipei28 Nov 2020
- Skillvanta IndiaOnline28 Nov 2020
- TEDxUniversitasIndonesiaOnline28 Nov 2020
- Andiswa Machanyana and Nonzuzo MJohannesburg28 Nov 2020
- Emerald Technology Group IncOnline28 Nov 2020
- Charmie CabiasaOnline28 Nov 2020
- Michael OjoOnline28 Nov 2020
- Bill WongOnline28 Nov 2020
- TEDxKuwaitCityWomenKuwait City28 Nov 2020
- Elizabeth Ortiz and Luis Fernando VelezGuayaquil28 Nov 2020
- Anand Damani and Ajay Jain and Mahendra Damani and Mahendra SinghIndore28 Nov 2020
- Ciara Shannon and Dyan JonesBowness on Windermere28 Nov 2020
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- Gbenga SamuelOnline29 Nov 2020
- Ankush NagpalOnline29 Nov 2020
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- May LiDallas01 Feb 2021
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- PUC MinasOnline12 Jan 2022
About TED Circles
TED Circles is a global community of small groups who discuss big ideas together. We believe in the power of ideas and frequent, face-to-face conversations to positively impact ourselves, our communities, and our world. Through TED Circles, a host can invite their friends, neighbors, strangers, or a mix - many who have not attended TED or TEDx events - into their home, school, office, and more to discuss a variety of interesting topics. TED provides monthly themes, recommended talks, and specific conversation starters so the host can focus on engaging everyone in constructive conversations. Here’s a summary of what TED Circles are and are not:
- They are volunteer-hosted, small, face-to-face (in-person, online) gatherings where topics are safely discussed.
- They are not a TED event, they are not a club or a one-off gathering, and they do not sell things or raise money.
FAQs
TED Circles are purposefully easy to adopt so they occur regularly plus they are easy to adapt so they reflect hosts’ and guests' style. With many possibilities come many questions:
Who can host a TED Circle?
Anyone! Register to host TED Circles.
Who can participate in a TED Circle?
Hosts invite guests to participate in their Circle.
What is discussed during a TED Circle?
TED provides monthly themes with aligned talks and questions to support, not limit hosts. Hosts are welcome to select any content that relates to the monthly theme. Further, hosts may suggest guests watch the content independently beforehand or together at the beginning of the TED Circle.
Where do TED Circles take place?
Taking place in-person and online, locations for TED Circles include yet are not limited to: homes, parks, cafes, schools, workplaces, libraries, and video calls.
When do TED Circles take place?
Scheduling can be set by the host or collaboratively agreed with guests. TED Circles are intended to last between 1-2 hours and occur at least monthly.
If you have additional questions, please email tedcircles@ted.com
Rules of engagement
TED Circles is an open community which welcomes everyone who believes in TED's values and wishes to engage in constructive conversations about ideas. A volunteer-powered platform calls for some ground rules.
Each Circle is independent but all TED Circles are connected virtually and through a shared brand. Hosts and Circles that do not adhere to the spirit and rules of the program or harm the community in any way will be removed from the program and must discontinue the use of the TED Circles brand. If you notice non-compliance, please email tedcircles@ted.com.
Tell the world about your Circle
Every TED Circles host is required to annually register as a host and register each TED Circles event they host. This does not mean that the Circle is open to the public - hosts decide if the Circle is closed (by invitation only) or open (accepting new participants) - but it provides official designation as a TED Circle.
Show off your TED Circles affiliation
When a TED Circle is registered and active, the host may present themselves as a TED Circles host and use TED-provided TED Circles logo and designs. Always be clear that TED Circles are volunteer-hosted gatherings, not TED events produced by TED staff, and accordingly use the TED Circles logo, not the TED logo.
Be cool
Hosting is a big opportunity and responsibility. Each TED Circles host must ensure the safety and comfort of their guests.
Do it for public good
TED Circles is a volunteer endeavor and free to attend. Hosts may ask for in-kind contributions (such as food and meeting space). Hosts and guests may not use TED Circles to gain revenue sponsorship, make money, raise funds, or organize crowdfunding.
Focus on ideas
TED Circles uphold the spirit of TED, focusing on the power of ideas. Welcoming a wide range of perspectives, TED Circles encourage equal participation within a safe environment that promotes curiosity, inclusion, debate, and impact. Agendas and self-promotion have no place in these conversations.