Reason and Engage (2018-2019): Just Peace

‘Reason and Engage. Critical Reflections on Humanity and Society’ is an interdisciplinary course and a series of public lectures and activities organized by VUB. Edition 2018-2019 explores the different aspects of war and peace, conflict and resistance. During the public events, experts from different disciplines share findings and opinions on a chosen theme. We bring together academics, researchers, professionals and active citizens to stimulate critical reflection on some of the most urgent and challenging issues of our times. Events take place at various locations in Brussels.

“Nie wieder Krieg” sounded after the First World War. With the 100th anniversary of the First World War world peace seems a distant dream. Growing inequalities, exhaustion of natural resources, civil and trade wars, increasing refugee flows ... Conflict and injustice seem inherent to human society.

For four evenings, Reason and Engage explores the origins and impact of war and conflict. We look for new foundations and visionary images for peace and justice and investigate what role politics, education, art and media can play.

Will the 21st century be more peaceful than the 20th or will Immanuel Kant's ‘Perpetual Peace’ remain an unattainable illusion?