The Global Theory Forum (GTF) is pleased to announce its 2026 Spring Symposium, taking place on 27th April 2026 at University College London, generously sponsored by the Society for Applied Philosophy.
The Symposium brings together early-career political theorists and philosophers to present and discuss work-in-progress at the intersection of political philosophy and pressing real-world concerns. Spanning four thematic panels, the event is designed as a space for theoretical experimentation, academic exchange, and collaborative growth, and is open to work drawing on a variety of methodologies and disciplinary backgrounds, provided there is a substantial political theory or philosophical focus.
The keynote address will be delivered by Professor Jeff Howard (UCL), whose research on online communications combines political philosophy with deep engagement with policy and legal scholarship.
Panel 1: The Methodology of Situated Theory: Engaging with Politics in Historical, Ethnographic, and Realist Terms
Chair: Dr Alice Baderin, University of Reading
This panel examines how historical and ethnographic methods can be incorporated into philosophical inquiry to resist reducing political philosophy to a purely moral exercise. Papers are invited that take a realist stance — foregrounding the distribution, exercise, and origins of social and political power — and that reflect on the epistemological, ethical, and political tensions that arise from situating philosophical inquiry in context.
Panel 2: An Incredible Alternative to Politics: Digital Technology and Global Power in the Age of AI
Chair: Dr Alex Grzankowski, KCL
Drawing on Peter Thiel’s claim that “technology is this incredible alternative to politics,” this panel invites work at the intersection of political philosophy and the philosophy of technology. Papers should engage with how digital technology reshapes the global distribution of power, with particular attention to AI, the state, and the growing influence of technology companies.
Panel 3: Forming a Green Imaginary: The Politics of Stasis, Nihilism, and Reconstruction in the Context of Climate Catastrophe
Chair: Dr Ross Mittiga, SOAS
Against the backdrop of continued failures to meet international climate finance pledges, this panel interrogates the possibilities and pitfalls of forming a green social imaginary. Papers are encouraged that explore the tension whereby dystopian narratives of climate change can both justify insufficient action in status-quo politics and, conversely, fuel political mobilisation across the political spectrum.
Panel 4: Work and Beyond: Exploring the Moral and Political Centrality of Work
Chair: Dr Tom Parr, University of Warwick
This panel critically examines contemporary relationships with work and its possible futures. It invites papers that explore the gendered, parochial, and racialised assumptions underpinning the normative centrality of work, as well as the philosophical implications of automation, platform work, precarious employment, and the decline of organised labour. Contributors are encouraged to rethink freedom, obligation, and social reproduction beyond the wage relation.
Format
Each panel will feature two early-career speakers and one senior discussant. Speakers will present for 15–20 minutes, followed by a response from the discussant and an open Q&A. The day will conclude with a drinks reception hosted at UCL, and dinner for selected panellists and discussants.
Call for Papers
The GTF invites submissions from PhD students and Early Career Researchers (within 5 years post-PhD). Abstracts of 150 words should be submitted via the GTF website by 9th March 2026. The GTF particularly welcomes work drawing on international political thinkers or problems, and encourages those in the midst of developing ideas to apply. Travel and accommodation costs can be supported for those based outside of London. Abstracts can be be submitted via: https://tinyurl.com/4ssek25x
For more information, visit https://www.globaltheoryforum.co.uk/spring-symposium or contact globaltheoryforum@gmail.com.