We host hundreds of community programs each year with civic advocacy, social justice, and public and individual education at the forefront of our work.

We hold forums on key social issues, host discussions on ethics and philosophy, and partner with other organizations to serve the public good. Issues of war, social policy, and human rights have been discussed here by Al Gore, Paul Krugman, Cornell West, Naomi Klein, Toni Morrison and many, many others.

Our building is also a thriving home for arts and culture, with films, theatrical events, book discussions, and writing, music, and art workshops.  Our Concert Hall comes alive with a variety of pop, rock, jazz, and classical music programs, including the American Classical Orchestra, the JVC Jazz Festival, the Chamber Music Society at Lincoln Center, the Juilliard School and WFUV’s concert series.

Community Gatherings

Midweek Meditation

Tuesdays, 5:00-5:45pm
Moderator: Larry Hurst

A midweek meditation for relaxing body and mind.

There are no upcoming events at this time

Getting to Know You (Members Only)

2nd Mondays, 5:00-6:00pm
Moderator: Larry Hurst and Elinore Kaplan

In this session, two members dialogue with one another (or with one of the moderators). The “dialogue partners” respond to 4 or 5 questions they themselves have chosen (about growing up, career, interests, adventures, etc.; plus one about being a member of NYSEC). It’s all part of getting to know our Ethical Culture family in a comfortable, casual way.

 

There are no upcoming events at this time

Fourth Fridays Humanist Happy Hour

4th Fridays, 7-9:00pm

Discuss current events and the political and personal ethical challenges of the day over drinks!

Humanist Happy Hour

Our Humanist Happy Hour is back! Every month we’re hosting evening gatherings with drinks, snacks, and great conversation. Looking for Humanist community? Passionate about social justice? Curious about Humanism and...

Find out more
22 March 2024
Load More

Leader-Led Programs

An ongoing part of our adult education programs, our Leaders run a variety of discussion groups that are open to both members and nonmembers.

Pathways to Ethical Culture (Online)

3rd Wednesdays, 7:00-8:00pm

Moderators: Leaders Dr. Joe Chuman and Dr. Richard Koral

These discussions of Ethical Culture beliefs and practices are for newcomers and long-time members alike. We explore the history, ideals, and current interests of the Ethical Society community and our place in the philosophical/religious firmament.

There are no upcoming events at this time

Camaraderie and Good Conversation on Topics Philosophical and Newsworthy

with Leader Dr. Joe Chuman
3rd Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30pm

This is a monthly discussion group focusing on contemporary issuese and occasionally classical writings relating Ethical Culture and Humanism. We will primarily make use of articles from journals of opinion and book chapters when relevant. Rather than taking a merely journalistic approach, the discussions will aim to illuminate the philosophical concepts and values which underlie the issues being discussed.

Camaraderie and Conversation with Leader Joe Chuman: The Biden Candidacy

Leader Dr. Joe Chuman leads this monthly discussion group focusing on contemporary issues and occasionally classical writings relating to Ethical Culture and Humanism. We will primarily make use of articles...

Find out more
19 March 2024

Workshops and Discussions

Say Yes to Science (Online)

1st and 3rd Mondays, 11:00am-12:00pm • 2nd and 4th Mondays, 5:00-6:00pm

Moderators: Dr. Carol Portlock, retired oncologist (1st & 3rd Mondays); Dr. Frank Corigliano, clinical psychologist (2nd & 4th Mondays)

Thanks to vaccines and medical innovation, we are gradually moving away from the Covid pandemic. Retired oncologist Carol Portlock will discuss the new and intriguing science that lies ahead, including Covid. Clinical psychologist Frank Corigliano will continue to address your concerns about managing day-to-day during this trying time.

There are no upcoming events at this time

Poetry Circle (Online)

1st Tuesdays, 10:00-11:30am
Moderator: Elinore Kaplan

Share the poems of your choice. Read them aloud. We’ll listen attentively and discuss some — a line, a word, an image. Tell us a little about the poets, too.

There are no upcoming events at this time

Ethics in The News (Hybrid)

2nd Sundays, 1:30-2:30pm
Moderator: Joe Fashing

Join in the lively give-and-take on compelling issues and current events and bring your own ideas. Suggested readings are available ahead of time in that week’s event listing on our calendar.

There are no upcoming events at this time

Great Literature Discussion Group

1st & 3rd Wednesdays, 7-9pm
Moderator: Gunther Tielemans

Read the selections in advance, and be prepared to discuss the questions that interest you by referring to the specific related text.

There are no upcoming events at this time

Storytelling Circle

1st and 3rd Thursdays, 5:00-6:00pm
Moderator: Doris Hart

One of the oldest traditions around the world is storytelling — folk tales, fairy tales, historic tales, family tales. Bring whatever story you choose. We’ll gather ’round the virtual campfire and listen.

Storytelling Circle (Online)

Free and open to the public online! One of the oldest traditions around the world is storytelling — folk tales, fairy tales, historic tales, family tales. Bring whatever story you...

Find out more
21 March 2024

Storytelling Circle (Online)

Free and open to the public online! One of the oldest traditions around the world is storytelling — folk tales, fairy tales, historic tales, family tales. Bring whatever story you...

Find out more
02 May 2024
Load More

Arts and Culture

The Society offers arts and culture programs that include film discussion series, writing workshops, art workshops and theater workshops.

Jazz Café

2nd Fridays, 7-9:30pm

Join us for The Jazz Café at Ethical, a welcoming place to unwind, relax, and enjoy great music, refreshments, and good company.

Jazz Cafe

Details and ticket link TBA! About the Ethical NYC Jazz Cafe “Totally delighted the whole evening! Classic intimate place, delightful people, and energy the whole time!” –W. T., Brentwood, New...

Find out more
12 April 2024
Load More
Ethics and the Theater

Members of the Society and theater professionals read plays dealing with ethical and moral issues before a live audience. Readings are followed by discussions of the ethical issues raised by the play.

There are no upcoming events at this time

Concerts at The Society

The Society’s 800-seat Adler Hall is a favorite of musicians because of its warm, full acoustics.  From classical music at our Sunday meetings played by Music Director David Gracia, to the many music partners who use our space, the Concert Hall is a gem of New York City venues. The Society presents some of its own music programming and also works with other music presenters to bring the best of music to our wonderful venue.

For a complete list of upcoming concerts, visit Metropolitan Presents.

There are no upcoming events at this time