What Are the Humanities For in an Age of Crisis? – A Dialogue with Philosopher Martha C. Nussbaum
Schedule
Wed Jun 03 2026 at 02:00 pm to 04:00 pm
UTC+03:00Location
Fabianinkatu 24, 00100 Helsinki, Finland | Helsinki, ES
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In recent years, the value of the humanities has come under increasing scrutiny. At a time when economic efficiency, security, and technological innovation dominate public discourse, the humanities and social sciences are often seen as secondary – or even dispensable. Across Europe and elsewhere, this shift has led to funding cuts and the closure of programs central to our cultural and intellectual traditions.But what is lost when the humanities are sidelined? Do ancient and medieval thinkers, contemporary philosophical thought, historical inquiry, literature, and the arts still have something vital to offer contemporary society? And what role can they play in sustaining democratic life in times of crisis? And how and where can we make contact with the humanities outside the academy?
In this public discussion, Professor Martha Nussbaum – one of the world’s leading philosophers and a prominent defender of humanistic education – reflects on the enduring significance of the humanities. Her influential book Not for Profit: Why Democracy Needs the Humanities has shaped global debates on the role of the humanities in democratic societies. The humanities contribute not only to democratic resilience, but also to our personal lives: our search for meaning, our capacity for empathy, and our ability to confront loss.
Professor Nussbaum will be in conversation with Kai Alhanen, Director of the Dialogue Academy. The event will include an opportunity for audience participation.
The event is organized by Aretai Ltd. Dialogue Academy, the Helsinki Collegium of Advanced Studies, and the Open Democracy Network.
Please register for the public event by completing the following form by May 24, 2026: https://www.lyyti.in/Tragedy-2026
The event is open to everyone and free of charge.
Venue capacity: 60.
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Where is it happening?
Fabianinkatu 24, 00100 Helsinki, Finland, Fabianinkatu 24, FI-00100 Helsinki, Suomi, Helsinki, FinlandEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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