Past event
Saints Talk: Professor Anthony Lang Peace: The Evolution of a Universal Value
The Development team invites you to the next instalment of the Saints Talk series with Professor Anthony Lang on ‘Peace: The Evolution of a Universal Value'.
Professor Anthony Lang is a leading scholar in global political theory, currently serving as Professor of International Political Theory at the University of St Andrews and as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of International Political Theory. His research explores the intersection of politics, law, and ethics, focusing on themes such as global constitutionalism, human rights, and the ethics of war and international responsibility.
After receiving his BA in Philosophy from the University of Notre Dame, and his MA and PhD from Johns Hopkins University, Professor Lang held roles at the American University in Cairo, the Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs, and taught at several institutions including Yale University and Bard College. Since joining the University of St Andrews in 2004, he has founded the Centre for Global Constitutionalism and later served as Head of the School of International Relations.
Peace is at the centre of international law and institutions, but contemporary world politics seems far removed from any hope for peace. With wars in Ukraine, Gaza and Iran, the great powers who created the United Nations and the rules-based order seem to be retreating from it.
In this talk, Professor Lang will draw on examples from world politics to answer key questions about peace. Is peace a universal value — one that stretches from our personal lives through our cultures and political systems? How has the idea of peace evolved through time? And ultimately, is peace possible today?
He will also explore the efforts of former UN Secretary General Boutros Boutros-Ghali to reframe ideas of peace after the Cold War. The Secretary General's approach combined his experience as a diplomat, international lawyer, and advocate for the Global South. Professor Lang will discuss how this work can continue to provide insight and inspire us to rethink peace once again.
Following the talk, attendees can ask questions in a live question and answer (Q&A) session.