The University of Melbourne has launched a new discussion series In Pursuit of Knowledge, which will examine the critical issues facing the world.
The ongoing series will bring together experts on a range of issues to interrogate the intricacies of subjects from the role of international law, the threat to our global public institutions, strengthening multiculturalism in times of conflict and the global impact of the United States election.
Hosted by broadcaster and Vice-Chancellor's Fellow Jon Faine, the series aims to provide insight into controversial and polarising current issues in a respectful open environment where ideas can be tested and discussed.
The series begins with a focus on our global public institutions and asks whether they are under threat. University of Melbourne legal experts Professor Alison Duxbury and Dr Carrie McDougall will be joined by the Co-Director of the University's Initiative for Peacebuilding Dr Tania Miletic to explore this topic.
The second panel will examine Australia's much-touted multiculturalism, which has come under signification strain in recent years.
The discussion will examine how we restore previous cordial cultural and religious exchanges in our community and deal with the rise of antisemitism and Islamophobia. Jon Faine will be joined by Professors Ghassan Hage, Joseph Lo Bianco and Karen Farquharson.
The impact of the US election and an examination of the policy differences between the major parties, the increasing polarisation in American politics and what the election will mean for Australia will be discussed by academics with inside knowledge of the Democrat and Republican sides.
This ongoing series will be in person and online and is open to all. Further information and registration are available here.
