History
Find out more about the origins and the history of the School in this 7 minute video.
History timeline
Henry George School of Economics founded in London by Leon MacLaren. It was renamed the School of Economic Science in 1942.
First series of Philosophy courses offered, developed from the teachings of Ouspensky and Gurdjieff.
First overseas school established in Wellington, NZ. Since then associated schools have opened in North America, Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Germany, Holland, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Malta, S Africa, Spain, Trinidad and Venezuela.
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi visits the UK, bringing the next stage of development, Meditation.
First of many meetings of Leon MacLaren and Shri Shantananda Saraswati.
Philosophy courses first offered in Oxford.
Mr MacLaren passes away. Mr Donald Lambie succeeds him as Senior Tutor.
Shri Shantananda passes away. First meeting with Shri Vasudevananda Saraswati.
The name of the school is changed to the School of Philosophy and Economic Science.
How it works on our educational courses
A tutor presents material, and leads a discussion based on what arises. Being practical rather than academic, the emphasis is on personal knowledge. Students are encouraged neither to accept nor reject the ideas put forward, but to test them in practice for themselves, in the light of their own experience.
What some of our students say...
Local Course
Local face-to-face evening courses available at a choice of locations.
Practical Wisdom
Courses in practical wisdom for everyday living. Meet with like minded individuals.
“Absolutely loving the course!! …Really changing how I think about things and life in general.”
“...I am benefiting greatly from the content and the practical nature of it. Thank you, it is enriching my life.”
“The daily awareness exercises … have changed my thinking and I feel more relaxed about situations in the media and other aspects of my daily life.”
"The knowledge and experience that I have gained from the philosophy classes has helped me to discover more about myself and better prepare for dealing with life's daily surprises and challenges."
Frequently asked questions
The course is practical in the sense that it takes philosophical ideas and shows how they can be of direct use in our everyday lives. The intention is to stimulate enquiry and through this expand the way we look at the world and ourselves.
Online or by calling 07856 197881.
If you register online, you will receive a confirmation email with your day of attendance. If you register by any means other than online, you will receive a receipt confirming your registration.
Yes, we have local venues at Oxford OX1 2BZ and at Waterperry House OX33 1LA. There are also many other local venues in other parts of the UK where you can attend the course face-to-face.
No, all you need is an open and enquiring mind. The course is intended for everyone, regardless of education, occupation, race, political or religious belief.
First you need to enrol on a course. The in-person courses are available in Oxford and Waterperry and at many other venues up and down the UK. A local Oxford map can be found on this page.
If you have any questions simply call us on 07856 197881 or by emailing schoolofphilosophyoxford@gmail.com
