The Department of English at Central University of Punjab (CU Punjab) successfully organized the inaugural lecture of its “Lecture Series on Languages, Literature, Culture, and Theory” featuring an engaging and insightful talk by Professor Johanna Oksala, the Arthur J. Schmitt Professor of Philosophy at Loyola University, Chicago.
The event, conducted in hybrid mode, was held under the patronage of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Raghavendra P. Tiwari and led by Dr. Vipan Pal Singh, Head of the English Department at CU Punjab. It fostered lively discussions and intellectual engagement among participants.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Vipan Pal Singh underscored the relevance of Michel Foucault’s ontology in analyzing contemporary neoliberalism, noting it as a valuable framework for philosophical inquiry.The lecture, titled "Michel Foucault and Critiques of Neoliberalism," offered a profound analysis of Foucault’s ideas.
Professor Oksala provided a detailed exploration of Foucault's critical examination of neoliberalism, focusing on the role of the state, the constitution of the subject, and the function of truth. She also addressed key critiques of Foucault’s work, particularly refuting claims that he was sympathetic to neoliberalism.
Additionally, she engaged with Wendy Brown’s influential critique of Foucault’s conception of the political, offering a nuanced defense against these criticisms.The event concluded with an interactive session in which Professor Oksala responded to audience questions and further elaborated on the topics discussed.
Dr. Shahila Zafar, the event coordinator, extended a vote of thanks, while Prof. Alpna Saini, Dean of the School, commended the faculty for successfully organizing the event. Dr. Dinesh Babu and Dr. Rohit Yadav were also acknowledged for their significant contributions to the event’s organization.
Faculty members, research scholars, and students from the School of Languages, Literature, and Culture participated enthusiastically in the program.This inaugural lecture marks the beginning of an ongoing series that promises to delve into critical issues across languages, literature, and cultural theory, paving the way for rich academic discussions in the months ahead.