The Public Philosopher
A day in honour of Jo Wolff’s career
Jo Wolff is one of the most influential political philosophers of our time, a scholar whose work has shaped numerous debates in philosophy—from equality and disadvantage to health and disability, urban policy, and structural injustice.
Yet beyond his scholarly contributions, Jo has been a public philosopher in the fullest sense—committed to making political philosophy relevant, accessible, and engaged with the world. His writing and teaching have inspired generations of students, while his work with policymakers has demonstrated how philosophy can inform and shape public decision-making.
This event celebrates Jo Wolff’s extraordinary career in the most fitting way: by doing political philosophy together. Friends, colleagues, and former students will gather to reflect on key themes of his work: the practice of engaged political philosophy, just and unjust cities, health and disability, equality, the public role of philosophers, and Jewish thought in the twentieth century. The day includes a line-up of leading scholars and long-time collaborators, culminating in a keynote address from Jo himself.
Please note, at this stage we are only gathering interest for this event. Register your interest below to stay updated and be the first to know when registration opens.
Please note the agenda may be subject to change. All times shown in BST.
08:00-09:00 | Welcome and coffee |
09:00-09:10 | Opening remarks Ẹniọlá Ànúolúwapọ́ Ṣóyẹmí |
09:10–10:25 | Panel 1: On Engaged Philosophy (Methods)
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10:25–10:45 | Break |
10:45–12:00 | Panel 2: Just and Unjust Cities
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12:00–12:45 | Lunch break |
12:45–14:00 | Panel 3: Health and Disability
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14:00–14:15 | Coffee break |
14:15–15:30 | Panel 4: Equality
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15:30–16:00 | Break |
16:00-16:10 | Remarks Nagire Woods |
16:10-16:30 | Speech Avner De-Shalit |
16:30-18:00 | Conversation on public philosophy and Jewish thought in the 20th century with David Edmonds, Philippe Van Parijs, and Zofia Stemplowska, chaired by Barry Smith. |
18:00-18:30 | Keynote address Jonathan Wolff |
18:30-19:20 | Drinks reception |