Thu, Nov 06
|Premise
How Do Other People's Expectations Shape Who We Become?
"Shooting an Elephant" by George Orwell ⏱️ Preparation: <45 min.
Nov 06, 2025, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM PST
Premise, 720 N Page St, Portland, OR
We'll send you the reading as soon as you register.
This event is open to participants in the Premise Pods series. If you are interested in learning more about Premise pods or in taking this session at another time, drop a line to Mary @ Mary@premiseinstitute.com. In this session, we examine how social pressure can force us to act against our own better judgment and moral convictions.
"Shooting an Elephant" by George Orwell
Orwell recounts a moment when he felt compelled to act against his own judgment to avoid disappointing or appearing weak in front of others. Despite knowing his action was unnecessary and wrong, he proceeds because the weight of others' expectations feels more powerful than his own moral compass. The essay reveals how the fear of judgment can override our better instincts and force us into choices that leave us feeling ashamed and diminished.
Orwell's honest self-examination exposes the gap between our private convictions and our public behavior. He asks: How do we find ourselves doing things we know are wrong simply to meet others' expectations? What happens when avoiding embarrassment becomes more important than doing what's right? How does the fear of judgment change who we become?
What should I expect at a Premise session?
What are the expectations for preparation?
At Premise, we understand that your time is valuable, so we keep preparation light—typically under 2 hours. Each session revolves around a core text, whether it’s a short story, film, or essay, providing a shared foundation for meaningful conversation. This approach ensures everyone is ready to dive into thoughtful dialogue, creating a richer and more engaging experience. Your preparation means we all have a common starting point for exploring big ideas together.
Do I need to have previous experience with the text or question?
No, not at all! At Premise, we value both beginner eyes and deep experience—each brings something unique to the conversation. Whether you’ve been in many intellectual discussions or this is your first, our sessions are designed to make everyone feel comfortable and engaged. You don’t need to be an expert; our structure and guidelines help ensure that both the novice and the seasoned thinker feel welcome and supported. Premise is for anyone curious about life’s big questions.
What is a Premise session like?
A Premise session is a thoughtfully crafted, expertly facilitated conversation using the Premise discussion model. Together, we explore life’s enduring questions through short works of literature, film, or art. With just 1-2 hours of preparation, you’ll join a vibrant, meaningful discussion where the following values are embraced:
Active Participation: Everyone comes prepared to engage thoughtfully.
Listening & Reflection: We prioritize listening and reflection over debate.
Shared Inquiry: Our conversations are driven by curiosity and mutual exploration.
Premise creates a welcoming space for both beginners and experienced thinkers, ensuring every voice is heard in a dialogue that inspires deep learning and connection. Learn more about the participant experience.
Wait! These enduring questions are a bit weighty. Will this actually be enjoyable?
Absolutely! While we tackle life’s big questions, the atmosphere is engaging and enjoyable. At Premise, we believe learning should be joyful, not intimidating. Our expert facilitators guide the conversation in a way that makes deep topics approachable, encouraging curiosity and connection rather than pressure or competition. You’ll leave feeling inspired, connected, and enriched by the experience—plus, it’s fun to dive into meaningful discussions with fellow curious minds!
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