The presence of modern liberalist political philosophy may be hindering the success of UK stabilisation operations overseas. This talk will explore the enduring presence of John Locke’s political philosophy within UK stabilisation policy.  The defining themes of this Lockean thinking will then be discussed within the context of traditional sub-Saharan African political norms. Conclusions will focus on how Lockean and African political thinking might find some conceptual similitude. Where clear normative divergences are identified, it will be proposed that by improving understanding of African political thought, we can develop more effective foreign policy.  

Joe Robinson was a visiting fellow on the CCW programme in 2014. His worked looked at political philosophy and norms in UK foreign policy as well as exploring liberalist normative themes in sub-Saharan African political thought. Prior to his Fellowship, Joe served as an Army Officer in the Royal Engineers for 8 years, deploying to 15 countries. His career was almost exclusively spent serving with commando forces, including a brief stint working in surveillance and reconnaissance. Joe left the Army in October this year and has taken up a new role as the Deputy Head of Government Relations for a small technology firm based in London

This event is open to the public and a light lunch will be served outside the seminar room at 12.50pm