We welcome you to explore the topic of capitalism together with experts from psychology, economics, sociology, and international relations to create an open academic playground. The audience and guest speakers will engage in a curious and collaborative debate about the weaknesses, strengths, and the future of our global economic system. We aim to foster a justice-oriented dialogue that harnesses our collective potential while emphasizing the importance of reflexivity. Our goal is to provide a joyful and intellectually stimulating experience for both panelists and the audience, encouraging meaningful reflection and a shared vision for a more humane future!

The four guest lecturers are: 

Prof. Jen Robinson: "Prof. Robinson has made a dynamic start to her lecturing career at the University of Canterbury, while pursuing a PhD on gambling-related harm as a social phenomenon. Her broader research focuses on social justice, marginalised communities, and the lived realities of poverty and structural inequality. We are excited for the depth and caring insights her sociological perspective will bring to the conversation."

Dr. Karim Bettache: "Dr. Bettache's fascinating works on the psychology of capitalism was a spark behind the discussion topic. His interests are "how the asymmetrical cultural flow from the West into societies across the world, reinforced by corporate hegemony in a neoliberal global political economy (e.g., dominance in the spheres of social media, the movie industry, and fashion), influences the individual psychology of the global population. In particular, the effects of racism/white supremacy, capitalism, and colonialism hold my strong attention." We are honoured to hear his thoughtful insights as a guest from beyond the university."

Dr. Emika Nasamu: "Previously a senior lecturer in Economics at the Unviersity of Chester, Dr. Nasamu currently works as a Behavioural Insights Advisor at a non-ministerial government department in the United Kingdom. Dr. Nasamu holds a PhD and has works on evaluating the costs and benefits of well-being workplace interventions and the impact of football tournaments on domestic abuse in England and Wales. Despite moving on, we welcome Dr. Nasamu's back with her insights, as her legacy lives on at the University of Chester.

Dr. Michael Francis: "Dr. Francis is a social scientist with extensive international field experience and a broad research portfolio. His expertise includes mixed methods, research ethics, and postgraduate supervision, with a focus on social change and development. Having worked across North America, Africa, and Asia, he brings a global perspective to his work. A sharp, reflective thinker, Dr. Francis offers a critical lens on capitalism and is deeply committed to imagining more just futures."

Location: Exton Park Campus, Best Building, CBB 115

Time: Monday, May 5th from 10 am- 12 pm 

ALL students, lecturers, and staff from the University of Chester are welcome to this special event!