Humanities Research Symposium

Graham Maddox, Professor Emeritus of Politics UNE, begins proceedings with a fiery critique of ‘Abbott’s war on democracy’. Maddox has published widely on democratic theory and Australian democracy. Political philosopher, Tony Lynch, presents a provocative piece on the state of political parties with ‘Ditch the base’. Matthew Ryan, UNE alumnus, characterises the inequitable socio-economic policies of the Abbott government as ‘Austerity for some’. Ryan was a prize-winning scholar in politics at UNE and highly regarded as erstwhile Senior Academic Mentor at Earle Page College. Lynn Gailey, UNE alumna, reveals the ‘Smoke and mirrors’ in Australia’s trade policy, notably the recently inked Trans Pacific Partnership. Paul Barratt AO, Adjunct Professor of Humanities UNE, analyses Abbott’s combative and undiplomatic approach to national security. Barratt is a UNE alumnus, former Secretary of Defence, Director of UNE Foundation and President of Australians for War Powers Reform. Karin von Strokirch scrutinises Abbott’s assault on the environment. Helen Ware, Professor of Peace Studies UNE, evaluates Australia’s immigration policy while Vincent Blokker, UNE alumnus, contrasts Australian and European policy on ‘boat people’.

9.30 – 4.30, Friday 16 October 2015

A3 lecture theatre, Arts Building

University of New England

CONFERENCE IS FREE & OPEN TO STAFF, STUDENTS & PUBLIC

To register interest & receive a program contact: Karin von Strokirch – kvonstro@une.edu.au

[1] A nod to the ABC’s Australian political satire programs – The Chaser’s war on everything and The Hamster decides.