Thu, Nov 06
|Cups of Yoga
Are the Machines Coming to Get Us?
Her (2013) directed by Spike Jonze Short story: The Machine Stops by E.M. Forster ⏱️ Preparation: Approx. 3 hours
Nov 06, 2025, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cups of Yoga, 24900 Highland Way, Los Gatos, CA 95033, USA
As we navigate a world increasingly dominated by technology, this session will explore our complex relationship with the machines shaping our lives. Through the lens of a thought-provoking film and a prescient short story, we'll discuss the ethical, social, and existential implications of our technological future. Join us for a dynamic and engaging conversation that examines the real-world impact of technology on the human condition.
Conversation Catalysts
⏱️ Time Commitment: Approximately 3 hours of preparation
🎥 Film:
"Her" (2013) directed by Spike Jonze
- A near-future romance that explores the relationship between a man and an AI operating system. This film delves into themes of human-AI interaction, emotional connections with technology, and the blurring lines between artificial and human intelligence. The film is available to stream on most platforms (Netlfix, etc) and may be available through your local library via Kanopy. Length: 2 hours 6 minutes
📖 Short story:
"The Machine Stops"
by E.M. Forster (1909)- A prescient science fiction story that depicts a world where humanity has become entirely dependent on an omnipotent global Machine. It explores themes of technological dependence, isolation, and the loss of direct human experience. Length: 25 pages
Meet your Chapter Leader
Learn More About Premise Sessions
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!