Is decentralization the key to revitalizing liberal democracies? Join philosopher Sophie Scott-Brown and activist-politician Pepijn Kennis for an interactive conversation.
As liberal democracies worldwide face increasing strain, could the principles of anarchism offer a way forward? Join philosopher and historian Sophie Scott-Brown for a compelling discussion on anarchism’s potential to promote decentralization, direct democracy, and social creativity. After presenting her case for 30-40 minutes, Sophie will engage in a conversation with Pepijn Kennis, a former Brussels Parliament member and co-founder of the Agora political movement. Pepijn will share his experience with Agora’s innovative approach to decentralizing political power through citizen assemblies. Following this, the audience will be invited to join the conversation, reflecting on their own frustrations with authority in areas such as work, education, or community. This is more than a lecture—it’s an opportunity to rethink how we can reshape democracy.
speaker
Sophie Scott-Brown is a lecturer in Philosophy at the University of East Anglia, where she teaches intellectual history and explores the intersections of politics and education. Known for her insightful analysis and dynamic approach to complex ideas, Sophie has authored three influential books. Her second book, Colin Ward and The Art of Everyday Anarchy (Routledge, 2022), offers a compelling exploration of anarchism’s role in everyday life, directly relevant to many contemporary discussions. Her forthcoming third book, The Radical Fifties: Activist Politics in Cold War Britain (OUP, 2025), delves into the activist movements of post-war Britain. Sophie’s work as an advocate for Widening Participation resonates deeply with those who believe in the transformative power of education and intellectual inquiry.
speaker
Pepijn Kennis' mission is to make the city together. He recently left the Brussels' Regional Parliament, in which he was an MP for Agora.Brussels, a political citizens' movement. Agora wants to put citizens back at the heart of democratic decision making, notably by organizing citizens' assemblies with randomly selected inhabitants. Pepijn's role was to bring their ideas forward in parliament, confronting politicians both with citizens' ideas and with another way of decision making. Before Agora, Pepijn coordinated Toestand, an NGO organizing formalised squats in abandoned spaces. Currently, he's a guest lecturer at Brussels' Free University (VUB-ULB).