About the Society
The Leeds Philosophical and Literary Society, founded in 1819, is a charity that promotes interest in science, literature and the arts – in the city of Leeds and beyond. We have meetings, lectures, entertainments, publications and visits.
Who are we?
The Leeds Philosophical and Literary Society, founded in 1819, is a charity that promotes interest in science, literature and the arts – in the city of Leeds and beyond. We have meetings, lectures, entertainments, publications and visits.
We make grants to individuals and organisations to support cultural activities that aim to increase understanding, innovation, outreach and diversity in Leeds and its immediate area.
‘The Phil & Lit’, as it’s usually called, is a membership organisation open to all who are interested. We cover a wide range of scientific, technical, artistic and cultural topics. Leeds is our special focus, but our interests extend from atoms to the universe.
The Society is constantly looking for new ways to make progress with its aims, including through collaborations with other scientific, cultural and educational organisations – in Leeds and in the wider world.
Who are we for?
The Society is for anyone who’s curious about the world around them and interested in exploring a wide range of topics. If you enjoy learning about new areas of research and hearing directly from experts from across science, arts and culture, then you’ll appreciate our events and will enjoy being in company with other lively-minded learners of all ages.
Did you know? When the Society was founded in the early 19th century, ‘natural philosophy’ was the term used for reasoning and explanations about nature – what we now call ‘science’.
What do we offer?
Anyone is welcome to attend our public events.
Members of the Leeds Philosophical and Literary Society enjoy a number of extra benefits:
- notification about lectures, concerts and other activities supported by the Society
- an invitation to the Annual General Meeting and dinner, usually held in November each year
- free or reduced-rate copies of publications supported financially by the Society
- a members-only section of the Society’s website
- a free copy of the Society’s Annual Review
- a chance to serve on the Society’s Council and so help to shape its future
- a sense of connection to one of the city’s oldest institutions – living heritage
Leeds International Piano Competition takes place every three years. Here the semi-finals of the 2018 competion were in progress in The Great Hall, University of Leeds. Chinese pianist Xinyuan Wang (born 1995) was about to perform. He went on to win third prize. Picture by Allan McKenzie.
Join us and help shape the future of the society
Become a member for:
- Special member-only events and lectures
- Free and discounted publications
- A free copy of the Society’s Annual Review
- Opportunity to join the Council
- Annual membership £25 per year
- Free membership for under 25s
Learn more about us
Dyes and dyeing in Leeds – past and present
The evolving business and science of bringing colour into our lives – Andrew Filarowski, Deputy Chief Executive of the Society of Dyers and Colourists
Inspirations from the atmosphere
Techniques and art of etching & printmaking – Professor Ian Brooks, University of Leeds
Honorary Life Memberships awarded
Contributions of long-serving members recognised
Explore more
Grants
The Society makes grants both to individuals and to organisations in support of cultural and scientific activities which increase innovation, outreach and diversity in Leeds and its immediate area. It also supports local museums and galleries and publications relating to the city.
Membership
Becoming a member of the Phil & Lit gives you a chance to learn about a wide range of topics and enjoy the company of others with an endless appetite for knowledge. Being part of this Society, now in its third century, connects you to its heritage and helps to ensure that it continues to thrive.