Events

In this year's Stella Aldwinckle seminar, we are asking: Who do we trust? In a society fractured along multiple fault lines, it often feels as if trust is lacking in relationships, institutions, politics and culture. Professor Tom Simpson will help us consider the idea and practice of trust in academic life and beyond.

Postgraduates and ECRs in all relevant disciplines are invited to join a roundtable discussion on the theme of trust. After a short talk introducing key ideas and questions, participants will have time for small group discussion over refreshments. Together we'll ask: how do we decide to place our trust in someone or something? What criteria or evidence do we use? What are the benefits of trust within our institutions and society? How do we become trustworthy people? How do we build and participate in trustworthy cultures and trusting communities?

Free tickets for this event include tea, coffee and pastries. Registration is essential via Eventbrite; email [email protected] with any questions.

* Those on career breaks from postgraduate study or research are also very welcome to attend.

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The Stella Aldwinckle Series is inspired by the life and work of Stella Aldwinckle and her friends including Iris Murdoch and C.S Lewis.

Aldwinckle was a graduate of St Anne’s college and the women’s chaplain of the Oxford Pastorate from the 1940s-1960s. Encouraged by women students at Somerville, Aldwinckle set up and chaired the University’s Socratic Club, inviting C S Lewis to stand as President. Over many years the great thinkers of the day came to debate philosophical and theological questions in an open and intellectually stimulating environment. Amongst them were Iris Murdoch, Elizabeth Anscombe and Dorothy L Sayers - who all studied at Somerville, the College we are delighted to use to hold this event.

Through this series we hope to emulate these women in asking some of the big questions about what it means to live a good life.