In aiming to promote conversation within a community about how life practices can be changed for the better health and flourishing of its individual members, a crucial question is how that conversation is initiated, and by whom. A rich source of ideas is provided by looking at examples of thinking about "promoting the good life" in the Western tradition, especially in Renaissance humanism and the eighteenth century debate about the role of the arts. This lecture will focus on these debates and their contemporary relevance.

The opening lecture of the seminar series, given by Prof Anthony Grayling, looked at the history of the city and what it can teach us about the search for the good life. Central to this was consideration of what a 'community setting' should best be like to ensure that individual flourishing and wellbeing happens.