British Academy: The UK's National Academy for the Humanities and Social Sciences

ROBBING OUR OWN FUTURE?
INTERGENERATIONAL JUSTICE UNDER THE MICROSCOPE

7.00pm - 8.30pm, Tuesday, 2 March 2010

The British Academy, 10 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1

David Willetts MP

The British Academy is pleased to announce a special panel discussion exploring the vexed issue of intergenerational justice.

Prompted by the new book by David Willetts MP, The Pinch: How the baby boomers took their children’s future – and why they should give it back, the event will explore whether the relatively high levels of wealth, in historic terms, of the post-war generation has selfishly deprived future generations of their natural claims and rights.

Leading academics will offer responses to David Willetts’ thesis from sociological, economic, legal and ethical perspectives.

There will be plenty of time for questions and comments from the audience.

Chair:
Sir Adam Roberts KCMG, President, British Academy

Speakers:
David Willetts MP
Wilfred Beckerman, University of Oxford
John Eekelaar FBA, University of Oxford
Jonathan Wolff, University College London

The event takes place at the British Academy at 7pm. Admission is free and is on a first come, first served basis (no tickets or registration is required).

Streamed audio

Introduction

David Willetts - a demographic approach to large social question.

Introduction to speakers

Jonathan Wolff - how can a nation "save" or "give" to future generations.

Jonathan Eekelaar - Intergenerational justice through the law.

Wilfred Beckerman - Is a theory of justice necessary.

Questions and discussion