What is QLIC?

QLIC stands for Quantum Leap in Consciousness. QLIC is a non-profit organization registered in France to promote well-being, personal and spiritual development, and growth in consciousness. It was started in the early 90s by a group of American and British New Age practitioners in Paris and its main function was to maintain an English-language lending library of New Age and New Thought books. 

QLIC's status in France: Association regié par la loi du 1er Juillet 1901

What is QLIC Café?

QLIC Café is an outgrowth of Metaphysical Café which
collectively with their discussion salons have raised over 5000€ to date for international charities such as Handicap International, UNICEF and the World Food Programme.

QLIC Café is an event, not an actual place or café, modeled on the open discussion group style called Café des Philosophes held in public cafés in France. They are usually moderated by a professional philosopher. The host café typically allows a group to convene with the understanding that all participants buy a beverage.

The first Café des Philosophes in English was co-launched by Jane Grey in 1997 at the historical Café de Flore in Saint Germain. The same year, Jane started another monthly Philosophy Café at the famous Le Select in Montparnasse. Both events quickly grew, with crowds of up to 80 participants on an average evening.

Due to a large audience demand to discuss spiritual and existential topics, Jane began Metaphysical Café in 2000, which became QLIC Café in 2006. Metaphysical and QLIC Cafés have always been community fundraisers for charity.

QLIC Café is now held once or twice a year. Attendance ranges from 20 to 45 participants.

What happens at QLIC Café?

QLIC Café usually begins with a short (10 to 20 minute) presentation on the evening's topic followed by a group discussion moderated by Jane. Philosophy Café tradition is that participants signal to the moderator that they wish to speak, and the moderator keeps track of whose turn it is. That is to ensure that no one person monopolizes the discussion. Everyone who wants to speak gets a turn. No one is required to speak. Anyone may attend just to observe and listen.

At the conclusion of the discussion, participants are encouraged to meet and greet each other, so it is an occasion for people to make new friends and contacts.

Please note that QLIC Café is held in English but it is NOT an English class. There is no translation into French.  QLIC Café is open to English-speaking adults of all nationalities.

Many thanks

to the faithful followers of Jane's various salon discussion cafés and to the English-language media in Paris which have generously helped to promote Jane's charity events over the years:

FUSAC  — English-speaking resources and classified ads www.fusac.fr

PARIS VOICE — the webzine for English-speaking Parisians www.parisvoice.com

FRANGLO —the free classified ad network for expats www.franglo.com

Contact Jane to be kept informed of the next event.