IAS Social Science: Critical Inquiry as a Form of Life
Institute for Advanced Study colloquium series examining moral economy, political epistemology, humanitarian ethics, and the philosophical foundations of social critique.
Syllabus
7Lecture: Critical Interventions
This lecture examines the theoretical frameworks and practical applications of critical interventions within social science research, analyzing how scholars engage with power structures.
Lecture: Intervention in Action
This lecture dissects case studies of sociological interventions, illustrating how theoretical critiques translate into tangible actions and shape social policy.
Lecture: At Risk: Ethics, Exposure, and Academic Freedom
This lecture explores the ethical dimensions of scholarly work, particularly concerning exposure of vulnerable populations and the imperative of academic freedom amidst institutional pressures.
Lecture: Ultima Verba, Violence: A Critique
This lecture critically analyzes the concept of 'ultima verba' in the context of violence, exploring its rhetorical functions and material consequences in social discourse.
Seminar: In Conversation with Didier Fassin
This extended seminar features Didier Fassin discussing his seminal works and engaging in a dialogue about the trajectory and challenges of critical inquiry in contemporary social thought.
Lecture: Critical Trajectories
This lecture maps the historical and contemporary trajectories of critical thought in social sciences, identifying key theoretical shifts and their enduring impact on research paradigms.
Lecture: Witnessing Otherwise: The Arts as Critical Practice
This lecture explores how artistic expressions function as forms of critical witnessing, examining their capacity to challenge dominant narratives and foster alternative perspectives on social realities.







