Global Polycrisis and the Powers of Narrative: The Role of Academia, Art, and Public Intellectuals

Global Polycrisis and the Powers of Narrative: The Role of Academia, Art, and Public Intellectuals
From the left: Griselda Pollock (photo: University of Leeds), Paul Gilroy (photo: Eddie Otchere) and Gurminder K. Bhambra (Photo: University of Sussex)

What is the role of Academia, Art and Public intellectuals today? Three leading scholars from the humanities and social sciences share their thoughts and perspectives on pressing issues of our time.

On the occasion of the annual autumn meeting of the Holberg Committee, the Holberg Prize will host a reception and panel discussion at the British Academy on 23 October.

The Panel will feature Holberg Prize Laureates Professor Paul Gilroy and Professor Griselda Pollock, as well as Professor Gurminder K. Bhambra. Chair of the Holberg Committee Professor Ann Phoenix will moderate the discussion.

Abstract

Current planetary realities are shaped by interconnected crises—including climate change, biodiversity loss, the proliferation of warfare to multiple territories and domains of civil society, as well as the rise of disinformation and populist discourses. Narratives—whether textual, digital, spoken, visual and algorithmic—are integral to such polycrises. They inform how problems are perceived, understood, and addressed. In this panel we would like to probe the current status and power of narratives. What role should academia, art and public intellectuals play in shaping, contesting and, perhaps, providing alternative narratives in local and global contexts? How can they challenge proliferating and contradictory populist and political narratives? 

Programme

  • 18:00: Doors open
  • 18:30: Welcome by Prof. Hetan Shah, CEO of the British Academy.
  • 18:35: Introduction by Chair of the Holberg Board, Prof. Jørgen Sejersted
  • 18:40: Opening by moderator Prof. Ann Phoenix
  • 18:45: Opening statements by the three panelists: Prof. Paul Gilroy,
    Prof. Griselda Pollock and Prof. Gurminder Bhambra
  • 19:00-19:40: Moderated discussion
  • 19:40-19:55: Q and A
  • 20:00: Event ends

Details

Thursday 23 October 2025
18:00
20:00
,
Europe/Oslo

Practical information

The event is open to all, but registration is required.
The registration deadline is 9 October.

The event will not be livestreamed, but recording will be published after the event.

Speakers

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