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"The Politics of Nostalgia: What Happened To Tomorrow?"
with Dr. Louisa Toxværd Munch
Summary
This talk explores nostalgia not simply as a longing for the past, but as a symptom of a present that feels increasingly fractured, unstable and difficult to inhabit. In moments of political exhaustion, economic insecurity, and social alienation, nostalgia offers the promise of return to home, certainty, identity, community, or a world that appeared more coherent than our own.
Drawing on critical theory, philosophy, and contemporary culture, the talk examines how these longings have been mobilised by the far right, whose nostalgic visions of nation and tradition promise stability in an age of anxiety and disorientation. But the talk also asks whether nostalgia can reveal something deeper: a collective grief for lost futures, solidarity, and meaning. Ultimately, it reflects on what our obsession with the past reveals about the crises of the present and the difficulty of imagining a different future.
Bio
Louisa Toxværd Munch is an academic, public educator, and advocate of critical pedagogy whose work focuses on politics, culture, democracy, and social advocacy. Louisa specialises in critical theory and has become widely known through social media for her accessible explanations of power, ideology, and contemporary political issues, particularly the rise of the far right. Her research explores themes including nostalgia, political disenchantment, democracy, and the ways power operates within society. Through her public engagement, Munch encourages audiences to critically examine the world around them and to question dominant political and cultural narratives. Louisa advocates for education as a cornerstone of democratic participation and promotes critical thinking as an essential tool for informed citizenship, collective action, and social change.
Venue:
Big Penny
1 Priestley Way,
London
E17 6AL
Event Running Time:
(We recommend arriving early if you plan on eating at the venue!)
Doors from 7pm
Introduction: 7:25pm
Lecture: 7:30pm
Q&A: 8:10pm
Finish: 8:30pm
FAQs:
What is Pints of Knowledge?
Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.
What happens at Pints of Knowledge?
At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.
What if I don't drink alcohol?
No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.
Can I attend without a ticket?
Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket. There is occasionally the option to purchase a ticket on the door for our sold-out events, but we cannot guarantee this.
Is there food available?
Yes, there is usually the option to purchase food at our events - please see each venue's menu on their website. If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts. In the unlikely event the kitchen isn't open, there will typically be an option to order in food from elsewhere or bring your own food.
Can I get my ticket refunded?
We issue full ticket refunds 24 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.
Can I get my ticket exchanged?
We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 48 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.
Is the event pet/baby friendly?
Yes, we allow pets and babies to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive.
Is the venue accessible?
All of our venues are accessible, besides the following: The Old Queen's Head, The Landor, The Alma, and The Morpeth Arms.