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Centre for Political Thought

 

The centre exists to promote the study of political ideas, concepts, and theories both philosophically and historically.  We are based in the School of Government and International Affairs, but membership is open to academics and students across the university.  We support the development of each other’s research and seek to engage with the broader community on normative and historical questions relating to politics.  We provide a collegial environment in which members are free to explore controversial ideas and difficult questions in a mutually supportive, respectful, and open environment. We seek to ensure our activities are accessible and the inclusion of students is a priority for us.

 

We run a speaker series, work-in-progress session, and two annual guest lectures the Alan Milne and Henry Tudor Memorial Addresses.  We host conferences, reading groups, workshops and events at the request of members and are happy to support student-led events. Please get in touch with the directors to discuss how you can become involved in our activities. 

See Our Research
Collegial We provide an environment of mutual advice and support
Critical We question our own research assumptions and offer each other constructive feedback
Innovative We explore new understandings of old ideas
Inspiring We host events featuring the latest theoretical developments

Our research

We are rare among IR and Politics Departments in the UK in containing a high concentration of expertise in political philosophy and the history of political thought. Coverage extends from the radical political ideas of the seventeenth century through to contemporary social justice theory.
More Research Areas
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Get in touch

Find out more about our Centre for Political Research by using the buttons below.

Centre for Political Thought

School of Government and International Affairs
The Al-Qasimi Building
Elvet Hill Road
Durham
DH1 3TU
UK

 

Director Contact: elizabeth.kahn@durham.ac.uk