York Minster

The Ebor Lectures on Theology and Public Life

The Ebor Lecture series has been jointly organised by York Minster, York St John University, The York Institute for Community Theology, The Carmelites and The Churches Regional Commission for Yorkshire and the Humber. This joint venture attempts to relate theology with public issues in contemporary society. It also acts as an ecumenical project, which wishes to build bridges between various faith communities. These lectures relate faith to public issues such as politics, economics, contemporary culture and spirituality.

Ebor Lectures on Theology & Public Life
2011-2012 The Good Society? Re-invigorating Public Life

There has been recent political debate about the importance of re-invigorating society, and increasing the engagement of citizens in public life. As part of this debate, the Government has proposed the development of the Big Society, encouraging people to engage in neighbourhoods and communities. They propose a shift of power from the state to communities, through support of social enterprise, charities and co-operatives. Some argue that the Big Society represents a retreat from state provision. Within this context the 2011-12 Ebor Lectures, in partnership with the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, ask fundamental questions about the nature of the ‘good society’, and the role of citizens, government, faith communities and voluntary organisations in the re-invigoration of civic life.

Wednesday 18th April 2012

Dr David Halpern, Director of Behavioural Insight Team, No.10 and the Cabinet Office/Senior Fellow of the Institute for Government

‘The hidden wealth of nations?’

York St John University, 7.00pm

Wednesday 2nd May 2012

Will Hutton

It was bad capitalism that got us into this mess – good capitalism that will get us out

York Minster, 7.00pm

Wednesday 13th June 2012

Rev Dr Malcolm Brown, Director of Mission & Public Affairs, The Archbishops’ Council

'Moral Communities in a Society of Strangers: turning social theories into practial politics

York St John University, 7.00pm

General information

The lectures will be held at York Minster and at York St John University. Admission is free but by ticket only. Disabled access is available but please mention when booking.

Book online here » or write to: Ebor Lectures, Faculty of Education & Theology, York St John University, Lord Mayor’s Walk, York Y031 7EX

If you would like any further information please contact the Ebor Lectures Co-ordinator T: 01904 876474 or E: eborlectures@yorksj.ac.uk