Centre for Theoretrical Studies in the Humanities and Social Sciences

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The Centre for Theoretical Studies in the Humanities and Social Sciences was created in 1990 under the initial directorship of Ernesto Laclau. Affiliation is open to all faculty members and PhD students interested in pursuing theoretical research in an interdisciplinary context. The current co-directors are Aletta Norval and David Howarth.

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THEME FOR 2010-2011

‘Global Challenges, New Imaginaries’

Last year, the Centre focussed on the tasks of theory and theorists in the face of global challenges. These included the dangers of climate change, a crisis of international finance and global capitalism, an increasing logic of minoritization, the intensification of various forms of religious fundamentalism, growing social and economic inequalities, and a palpable disillusionment with politics and politicians.

This year’s theme builds on this work by connecting these global challenges to the exploration and articulation of alternative imaginaries. There is little doubt that those who wish to go beyond the contradictions and failures of our contemporary condition find it difficult to elaborate plausible interim visions that can point us away from the current malaise.

‘Global Challenges, New Imaginaries’ is this year’s organizing theme for the Centre for Theoretical Studies. Throughout the year there will be seminars, workshops and conferences that will take up different aspects of the challenge to of rethinking different aspects of global capitalism, religion, the place of minorities, and the environment. It will also problematize and explore the role of theory in the academy and in relation to the pressing issues we confront.

Located in the Faculty of Social Sciences, the Centre continues to encourage interdisciplinary research, whilst providing a forum for ongoing staff and student development. Most events will take place on Thursday lunchtimes at 1pm. The Centre continues to be directed by David Howarth and Aletta Norval. Sian Savage, the centre Administrator, can be contacted on ssavage@essex.ac.uk.

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