In the old days, pre-1900s, the main way people of means showed their taste and educational development (and thus their social superiority) was to sponsor “get-togethers” and topical lectures conducted by the primary theorists of the day. The theorists could be social, medical and possibly philosophical based; but they were the social darlings of the age. It was in this manner the speakers and specialists gained notoriety and financial sponsorship from their benefactors. I think of them as Parlor Games.
