“A Drink with the Idler” as we chat to Simon May about procrastination

In his new book Jump! Simon shows that procrastination – unlike indolence with which it is often confused –  can offer blessings as well as dangers. Procrastination illuminates who we really are and what we value most deeply.

Join us as we look into the history of procrastination, from the desert monks of 4th century Egypt, to the medieval Christian philosopher Thomas Aquinas, from the Ancient Greeks to the Roman Stoics and the Buddhist sages.

The discussion between Simon and Idler editor Tom Hodgkinson will be followed by a live Q&A when you will be given the chance to ask your own questions.

The event will be hosted by Idler Academy director Victoria Hull and the Idler Academy’s Head of Philosophy Dr Mark Vernon will present a short “thought for the week” to get our brains fizzing.

This is an online event. It should be like meeting up in the pub for an interesting conversation. We leave the meeting open at the end so you can carry on chatting.

Simon May was born in London to German parents, a violinist and a brush manufacturer. Visiting professor of philosophy at King’s College London, his books include Love: A New Understanding of an Ancient Emotion, Love: A History, The Power of Cute, How to Be A Refugee and Thinking Aloud, a collection of his own aphorisms, which was an FT book of the year. His writing has been translated into ten languages and has featured in major news outlets internationally, including the Financial Times, the Washington Post, the Atlantic, the Guardian, El Pais, El Mundo, Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica, and Vogue.

Tom Hodgkinson is editor of the Idler and author of the best-selling manuals, How to Be Idle and How to Be Free. Other publications include a book on parenting, the Ukulele Handbook and a manual for creative entrepreneurs, Business for Bohemians.

Dr Mark Vernon is a psychotherapist, writer, broadcaster, and teacher. He presents several Idler Academy online courses. He has a PhD in philosophy, and degrees in theology and physics. His most recent books include The Idler Guide to Ancient Philosophy (Idler Books), Love: All that Matters (Hodder) and Jung: How to Believe (Guardian Shorts) – and he has books on friendship, belief and the good life too. Mark can often be heard on Radio 4’s Moral Maze. He began his professional life as a priest in the Church of England. For more, visit markvernon.com.

Victoria Hull is director of the Idler Academy, producing the Idler’s live and online events and courses.