Public lecture and seminar: Childism in Theory and Practice
兴发娱乐官网手机版客户端 are pleased to invite you to an event on Childism in Theory and Practice with Professor John Wall at 兴发娱乐官网手机版客户端 University on 7 October 2025.
The event consists of two parts:
- 12:45–14:30: Public Lecture
- 15:00–17:30: Seminar
Public Lecture
Time: 12:45–14:30 | Place: Building 15, room 15.0-003
Everyone is welcome to attend the lecture.
This talk introduces the critical theory of childism. Akin to feminism, decolonialism, and other critical perspectives, childism challenges and seeks to transform social norms and structures in order to empower children as children. While the idea grows out childhood studies, it undertakes a broader deconstruction of adultism/patriarchy and a systemic reconstruction of assumptions, systems, and power. What is more, childism offers an intersectional critique of other theoretical frameworks insofar as they assume an adult point of view. In the end it is suggested that a childist critique is foundational to any critique of social marginalization whether concerning children or not.
John Wall is Distinguished Professor of Philosophy, Religion, and Childhood Studies, and Director of the Childism Institute, at Rutgers University, United States. His research explores the intersection of political theory and children’s rights. He is best known for developing the critical theory of childism, or children’s empowerment, as well as for research and advocacy around ageless suffrage.
Seminar
Time: 15:00–17:30
Participation in the seminar is limited and requires prior registration and acceptance. Participants will be asked to give a short presentation of their own research, with particular attention to how childism informs their work.
To apply, please send a few lines about your research focus when registering. You will then receive an email informing you whether your application has been accepted or declined.
Deadline for registration: 30 September 2025
Sign up for 'Childism in Theory and Practice' >
The public lecture and the seminar will be in English