The response to this idea was flabbergasting. At most, I was expecting maybe a couple of people - I guess I underestimated your geekiness. Regardless, it's great.

From comments and discussion, then, here's the consensus:

• Unsurprisingly, you can't agree on a night. Thursday is most popular, but some of you can still only make Tuesday. Some people even suggested Sunday.
• You envision a variety of styles, from sitting around chatting, to something comparatively formal with a set topic, moderator and speaking times.
• There's no clear winner for venue - some concern was expressed about noise, and I've had suggestions of people's lounges, bars, and rooms on campus. No consensus, though.

Some more of my thoughts: I like the idea of a pre-set topic; I also like the idea that people should bring along a relevant topic / news item of their own. I like the idea of an informal moderator - someone whose job it is to break deadlock and keep things vaguely on topic, but I don't want a formal debate. I'd still like to find a venue that's not someone's lounge, but I'm not specifically attached to cafes - anywhere that's warm, has sufficient space, and not loud would be good. Food availability & net connectivity are good options, but not necessary. Any other suggestions?

Anyway, since these things have to start somewhere, let's have our inaugural get together this coming week:

• When: Thursday 15th, 6:30pm till late.
• Where: To be decided; scouts will determine a suitable location early in the week.</p>
• Suggested main topic: Organ trading - should it be legal for individuals to accept money for their kidneys? It's legal in a few places (Iran!), and a strict libertarian view says it should be, but there's strong objections throughout most of the world. If you have any suggested reading on this, post in comments..
• Try to bring one topic or news items that you think is interesting and worth discussing.
• Finally, I'd like to talk a bit more about format, frequency and other practical things.

Please note!! The day is different from that which I've been telling people - it seems Tuesday is not actually the most popular day..

I hope to do this relatively frequently - fortnightly or weekly, and on varying days so everyone gets a chance to come along. Unlike some groups, there's no expectation of regular attendance, merely an opportunity for those who are interested. I'll talk about this more on the night, though.