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Magic happens when you and 7-11 other adults read the same text or watch the same video and then come together to discuss them.
In a circle you commit to learning together with a group who meets a predefined number of times (typical: 6-8)
You get to enjoy a deep and meaningful conversation about the topic at hand, with lots of personal stories and no need to agree with each other.
Circle members provide a support system that enables participants to make actual changes in their lives (if that is what they want; there’s never any pressure). Participants invariably report that they were greatly enriched from the sharing of experiences, ideas, and advice.
In sum, our discussion circles provide a safe environment for the exploration of lifestyle changes that support our living more lightly on Earth. Whether you’re reading one of the NWEI discussion guides or jointly discussing videos or topics of your own group’s choosing, discussing these subjects within a group will be a far richer experience than you could have on your own.
How discussion circles work, what SMEI offers to the larger community - SMEI's "Why Circles?" (PDF, 34 KB )
- Frequently Asked Questions about discussion circles
- Northwest Earth Institute "What is a Discussion Course" (note that they use the term "discussion courses," while we, an affiliated Sister Earth Institute, prefer "discussion circles").
This table lists some resources we're in the process of developing
These books, edited by the Northwest Earth Institute (NWEI), provide carefully chosen excerpts organized into chapters. Your group reads a chapter prior to each session, and comes together to discuss it.
Some groups choose to read action oriented guides such as "Simplicity Lessons," "Your Money or Your Life," or "Low Carbon Diet"
Maybe you don't want to do a lot of reading, or prefer to set your own topics. These kinds of circles follow Cecile Andrews' "Circle of Simplicity" model, where each person presents a different topic. How topics circles work (PDF).
Not ready to commit to a circle? Borrow a video, invite others to watch it, and follow the video with a conversation about sustainable life choices. Video list (HTML / PDF)
Explore together with a circle of your neighbors how to take effective action to reduce your carbon footprint.
Page last updated on 06-Jul-2008 by Lena