If you're an atheist or a skeptic you're no doubt familiar with the Drinking Skeptically social event. "Drinking Skeptically is an informal social event designed to promote fellowship and networking among skeptics, critical-thinkers, and like-minded individuals. Drinking Skeptically provides an opportunity for skeptics to talk, share ideas (and yes, drink) in a casual, relaxed atmosphere. We discuss the issues of the day and whatever else is on our minds. But most of all, we have fun while promoting skepticism, science, and rationality."My good Twitter friend @briandgregory has come up with a slightly alternative event for those who do not have a local DS group, or for those of us spread around the country but have found friendship on Twitter. Virtual Drinking Skeptically launched at the end of September and has been a welcoming forum to vent, drink and laugh for all of us Twitter heathens. Check out the Virtual DS page for more information about participants and past meetings.
If you're interested we would love your company. You don't have to drink, but your comments and thoughts are welcome. We discuss an array of skeptical topics and have a lot of laughs along the way.
We use TokBox, a free video conferencing site, and although it has some bugs it's been working pretty well for us. It's important to have headphones to cut down on the echo and the delay. You don't have to have a webcam or even a microphone. We have some members who only type in the chat screen and some who can only speak via a microphone. Everyone is welcome.
If you're interested in joining us, check out the website or follow @virtualds on twitter for scheduling and news updates. We also have a Google Wavelet started for each meeting. If you have Google Wave, though it is not necessary, contact @briandgregory for details.
Next Virtual DS has not yet been scheduled.
