What Can Transgression Teach Us?

Note to Attendees: Please consider making a $5 donation to contribute to the running costs of this Meetup. Every civilization is built on boundaries. Some are moral, some legal, some cultural, and some exist simply because generations before us believed certain lines should never be crossed. Yet history is equally shaped by those willing to violate convention. As Oscar Wilde observed, “Disobedience, in the eyes of anyone who has read history, is man’s original virtue.” But is that really true, or does transgression only become admirable when history happens to favour the victor? At this Brisbane meetup, we’ll explore whether transgression is a source of wisdom, creativity, and progress, or whether civilizations ultimately depend upon restraint more than rebellion. The questions we will address are: 1. Can transgression reveal truths that obedience never could? 2. Do societies become stronger by encouraging transgression or by suppressing it? 3. When does rebellion become decadence? This event will be held at The Osbourne Hotel in Fortitude Valley. After the discussion, we’ll stay on for a meal and a drink together — a chance to continue the conversation in a more relaxed setting and support the venue. PLEASE NOTE: Please support the venue by purchasing a drink or meal during the event. This is intended to be a good-natured but robust discussion. Please be respectful and prepared to have your ideas challenged. If you are easily offended, this event may not be for you.