Human Sciences
Seminar Series
A platform for the transdisciplinary exploration of philosophical ideas
Part of the Transdisciplinary Philosophy Research Group
Human Sciences Seminar Series
Established 1979
This Year's Theme
Philosophies of Resistance
The 2026 Human Sciences Seminar Series explores the theme of Philosophies of Resistance. Philosophical thought that has resisted colonial, racial and carceral oppression. Our aim is to question the role that philosophical ideas have played – and continue to play – in collective struggles for social justice and human emancipation more broadly.
Seminar Format
All seminars begin at 2pm with a 40–50 minute academic talk, followed by a 10–15 minute break. The second half of each event is an ‘in conversation’ between the speaker(s) and a local activist, with time for questions from the audience.
About the Programme
The Manchester Metropolitan Human Sciences Seminar Series is an invited speaker research seminar organised by the Philosophy section of Manchester Metropolitan University's Department of History, Politics and Philosophy. The series was founded by David Melling and Wolfe Mays in 1979 out of a desire to explore the various human sciences in a systematic way from the standpoint of critical philosophy. It has now run for over forty years.
This Year's Theme
Philosophies of Resistance
The 2026 Human Sciences Seminar Series explores the theme of Philosophies of Resistance. Philosophical thought that has resisted colonial, racial and carceral oppression. Our aim is to question the role that philosophical ideas have played – and continue to play – in collective struggles for social justice and human emancipation more broadly.
There will be three events in total, Each event will consist of an academic talk and an ‘in conversation’ discussion between the speaker and a local political activist.
Refreshments will be served during a 15-minute break
Key Information
When
Spring 2026
Across the season
Where
People's History Museum
Manchester
Format
40-minute academic talk
Panel with local activists
Audience
Academics, activists,
and members of the public
Attendance
Around 50 attendees
expected at each event
Accessibility
Venue equipped with ramps
and hearing aid loops