Reimagining the Open Society: A Conversation with J. McKenzie Alexander

• January 9, 2025

On Monday, January 13, 2025, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM GMT, Alexis Papazoglou’s renowned “The Philosopher and the News” series will host J. McKenzie Alexander for a thought-provoking online discussion titled “The Open Society as an Enemy.” This event, part of the “On Philosophy” series, promises to re-examine the values and challenges of the Open Society in today’s world.

Nearly eight decades ago, philosopher Karl Popper laid out a compelling defense of the Open Society in his seminal work The Open Society and Its Enemies. Popper’s vision championed the principles of liberal democracy, pluralism, and reason, offering a philosophical bulwark against authoritarianism and totalitarian ideologies. However, J. McKenzie Alexander, Professor of Philosophy at the London School of Economics, argues that these values are once again under siege.

The Open Society Under Threat

Alexander highlights how, in the years following the Cold War, the values that once defined the Open Society are now being reframed as liabilities. Populist movements on both the political left and right have eroded foundational liberal democratic ideals, transforming what were once seen as virtues into perceived dangers. The rise of populist agendas, with their appeals to identity, nationalism, and disinformation, presents a profound challenge to the principles of transparency, inclusivity, and reasoned debate that underpin the Open Society.

A Call for Rehabilitation

In the face of these growing threats, Alexander asserts that the concept of the Open Society must be rehabilitated and reimagined. This involves not only defending its original values but also advancing them in a way that resonates with contemporary challenges. By doing so, we can rethink the kind of society we aim to build—one that is both achievable and sustainable in the 21st century.

The Speaker and His Vision

J. McKenzie Alexander is a leading voice in modern philosophy, with research spanning evolutionary game theory, decision theory, and formal epistemology. His latest book, The Open Society as an Enemy, published by the LSE Press, offers a timely critique of the current state of liberal democracies and a roadmap for revitalizing the Open Society’s principles.

The Host: Alexis Papazoglou

Alexis Papazoglou, the event’s host, is the Managing Editor of the LSE British Politics and Policy blog and an established figure in philosophical discourse. Known for his engaging podcast The Philosopher and the News, Papazoglou brings complex philosophical debates into public conversation, making them accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences.

Event Details

• Title: The Open Society as an Enemy
• Date: Monday, January 13, 2025
• Time: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM GMT
• Location: Online via Zoom
• Registration: Visit the event website for details.

For more information, visit J. McKenzie Alexander’s official website or explore his book, The Open Society as an Enemy, available through the LSE Press.

This event offers a unique opportunity to engage with pressing philosophical and political issues, challenging us to reconsider the fundamental principles that shape our societies. Join the conversation to explore how we can preserve and advance the ideals of the Open Society in an increasingly polarized world.