In this reading group, taking our cue from the volume, we will explore what it means to be human. We will look at some of the great statements on the basic objects of human desire, whether it makes sense to desire perfection, and whether it makes sense to want to be immortal.

What is the proper education for young people who aspire to achieve political greatness? This lecture will examine the autobiographies of great leaders in search of insights into the ways their educations and early lives prepared them for the trials, tragedies, and triumphs to lead.

Bagels, coffee, and male-only discussions on what matters most. Once a month, attendees will have the chance to read and talk about issues and challenges that the men of today are facing and that too often remain undisclosed: for fear of judgment or misunderstanding.

A reading group of women seeking to uncover (and recover) femininity, in concept and in practice, through meaningful discussion and close companionship.

This program is for Austin’s professionals --- of ALL AGES! It is a recurring occasion for cultural enrichment, dialogue, community building, and personal growth. We will meet every fourth Monday evening and together discuss some of the most recent non-fiction books on life, culture, and family.

Professionals of all ages, you are invited! After an interesting deep dive into a true classic of English fiction (loved by most —but not all of our attendees) last spring, we are launching a Good Life reading group for professionals devoted exclusively to fiction.

In this talk, Dr. Wilcox will discuss the anti-family messages and policies that have weakened marriage, which he summarizes in his recent book, "Get Married: Why Americans Must Defy The Elites, Forge Strong Families, and Save Civilization," and remedies to the decline of marriage and family life.

In this talk, University of Virginia marriage sociologist Professor Brad Wilcox, recently author of "Get Married", and UT Austin sociologist, Mark Regnerus, will discuss some interesting data and facts about marriage - and the many reasons why it's good for all.

Through an historical lens, Fr. Roberto Regoli, Professor at the Gregoriana University in Rome, will walk us through some of the church's recent past - and in particular the pontificate of Benedict XVI - while answering questions about what is old, what is new, and what awaits the faithful.

In times of international crises, diplomatic relations become important and delicate. And religions can make their contribution for peace or war. Papal diplomacy is the oldest in the world. It concerns not only the small Vatican City State but also all Catholics around the globe.

This program is for Austin’s young professionals. We created a space, a recurring occasion for cultural enrichment, dialogue, and personal growth. We meet every other week on Thursday nights. Register to save your spot and spread the word!

Creating community through the forgotten tradition of bowling tournaments.

What's the big deal about divorce? Why should we read and talk about it when everyone around us seems to be fine with it? The truth is: no matter what our family background, our age, or our state in life is, we all need to rediscover the immense impact that family life has on us and on our culture.

This program is reserved for UT graduate students (and spouses) and is structured as a series of conversations around a dinner table. Dinner is provided, but prior registration is required. One or two short articles --our conversations starters--will be sent beforehand.

The Good Life of the Austin Institute opens its doors to students (again!). We will read books addressing some of the main problems of our current culture -- looking for real and practical solutions, and always striving to seek the truth together.

This coming fall, we are starting a new Good Life Reading Group + (Level 2). It will be open to all individuals above forty --or younger, but who do not feel they are "young professionals" anymore. Our first meeting will be in September and then continue every other week.