About Us

Inquiring Minds was established to create opportunities for people to meet, connect, share ideas and exchange information about important topics. 

Many of the most common sources of information - television news, mainstream print media - often promote a narrow range of ideas and values.  Yet quality book stores reveal the huge range of topics of interest and points of view that appeal to readers.

There is considerable evidence to suggest that social disconnection in affluent countries has increased over the last few decades (see resources section on Community - Robert Putnam) and anecdotally, a corresponding decrease in opportunity for people to have discussion, debate, exploration and sharing of viewpoints on a range of meaningful issues.

People often find their lives are very busy with little time to reflect, explore and inquire about fundamental issues such as happiness, work and relationships. 

Inquiring Minds supports creating an environment which encourages diversity of opinion and which recognises that we all have something to contribute and learn from each other.

We hope that the broad workshop program will inspire some people to take time for themselves, come along and meet with others who have a similar interest in a certain topic.

The founder of Inquiring Minds is Debbie Ling. Her professional background is in social work having worked for 12 years in a variety of setttings including hospitals, schools, government departments, crisis settings and community organisations.  She has also studied psychology and family therapy.

Her particular areas of interest are cognitive behaviour therapy, community based work, sociology, cultural criticism and decision making theory.

Debbie has run workshops and groups in the past on a range of topics including:

Debbie also teaches meditation at The Melbourne Meditation Centre.

"Do not weep; do not wax indignant.  Understand."
- Spinoza (Dutch Jewish philosopher 1632-1677)