Philosophy / Nonprofit Organization / Esotericism / Cultural Engagement

Definition:

New Acropolis is an international non-profit philosophical movement, founded in 1957 in Argentina by Jorge Ángel Livraga Rizzi. The Austrian branch has operated under the name "Treffpunkt Philosophie – Neue Akropolis" since 1978, with a visible presence in Vienna and other cities. The organization promotes practical philosophy, volunteering, and cultural education, often inspired by classical traditions, Eastern philosophy, and elements of esoteric thought.

Vienna Activities:

• Located in the Josefstadt district (Lange Gasse 67)

• Offers introductory philosophy courses, including topics like Plato, Stoicism, Eastern wisdom, and ethics

• Hosts public lectures, workshops, and socratic dialogues

• Engages in environmental and community volunteer projects, such as Earth Day clean-ups in the Prater park

• Publishes the magazine Abenteuer Philosophie ("Adventure Philosophy")

Philosophical Orientation:

• Based on the idea of Philosophy as a Way of Life

• Draws on ancient wisdom traditions (Plato, Buddha, Confucius, Pythagoras)

• Seeks to build an “inner culture” and encourage self-knowledge, responsibility, and service to others

• Offers structured personal development programs across multiple modules

Organizational Structure:

• Part of the International Organization New Acropolis (OINA), which is present in over 50 countries

• Operates through local branches, often under cultural or philosophical associations

• Describes itself as non-political, non-religious, and open to all

Controversy & Criticism:

• Critics and watchdog websites (e.g., Psiram, some Reddit threads) have accused the organization of having a hierarchical, esoteric core ideology, with traces of theosophy, authoritarian structure, and even far-right philosophical influences in its early decades

• In Austria, it operates legally and visibly, though skepticism persists among some scholars and secular observers

• Members and supporters describe these critiques as outdated or misinformed, pointing to the organization's educational and civic contributions

Legal Status & Recognition:

• In Austria, registered as a non-profit cultural organization

• Engages in public cultural activities and volunteer events

• Not officially recognized as a religious group, but sometimes discussed in the context of “new spiritual movements”

Conclusion:

The Vienna branch of New Acropolis presents itself as a platform for living philosophy through action, reflection, and social engagement. While many participants experience it as open, enriching, and non-dogmatic, its philosophical lineage, internal structure, and esoteric influences have made it the subject of ongoing academic and public scrutiny.

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