Monday, 20 April 2026 – Universiteit Antwerpen, Prinsstraat 13, 2000 Antwerpen, aula S.B001
The Epistemology of Postmodernism: Stephen Hicks in conversation with Prof. Dr. Arthur Cools
What does truth mean in a postmodern world? We explore postmodern distrust of rationality and science and examine why that view remains influential. What is that distrust rooted in, and how can we respond? Stephen Hicks and Arthur Cools each offer their perspective on the critique of postmodernism and show what is at stake.
Tuesday, 21 April 2026 – Universiteit Antwerpen, Prinsstraat 13, 2000 Antwerpen, aula S.B001
Human Identity and Postmodernism: Stephen Hicks in conversation with Dr. Tinneke Beeckman
What determines human identity? Are people determined by the social groups they are born into, or do they have the ability to rise above them? Stephen Hicks and Tinneke Beeckman explore the human condition and consider what remains of responsibility, autonomy, and citizenship in an era of identitarian fragmentation.
Wednesday, 22 April 2026 – Universiteit Antwerpen, Prinsstraat 13, 2000 Antwerpen, aula S.B001
The Values of Postmodernism: Stephen Hicks in conversation with Dr. Maarten Boudry
The Enlightenment rests on a strong belief in the power of human reason. It has been highly successful in advancing citizens’ wellbeing and prosperity. Yet it continues to be the target of postmodern criticism. How legitimate is that criticism, and where does it come from? Does postmodernism offer anything in return? Stephen Hicks and Maarten Boudry highlight the foundations of the Enlightenment and show how they form the solid basis for a free and resilient society.
Thursday, 23 April 2026 – Universiteit Antwerpen, Prinsstraat 13, 2000 Antwerpen, aula S.B001
Postmodernism in the University: Stephen Hicks in conversation with Prof. Dr. Patrick Loobuyck, Emeritus Prof. Dr. Leo Neels, Prof. Dr. Freek Van de Velde, and Prof. Dr. Alain-Laurent Verbeke
In the United States, DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) has led to various excesses and has seriously undermined public trust in universities. How does postmodernism influence diversity policies in higher education, and what are the consequences for academic freedom? Is the university still a stimulating sanctuary for the confrontation of ideas? Do students learn critical thinking and how to deal with differing viewpoints, or does it encourage ideological conformity? A panel of thinkers joins Hicks to discuss the intellectual health and future of the university.