"Nothing Compares: How We Decide What Matters"

"Nothing Compares: How We Decide What Matters"
With Dr Amelia Peterson 

Details:

How do we price stocks? Rank universities? Value a life?

These are all questions about commensuration: the social process of making different things comparable on common scales. Often mistaken for quantification, commensuration processes actually involve many different algorithms, actors and exercises of power that are inaccessibly to external scrutiny.

If you’ve ever been frustrated by the concepts or metrics that impact your life, and wished they could be different, come and join this whistlestop tour through the history, philosophy and science of commensuration, into a design and futures discussion about how we foster institutions and societies that protect incommensurability.

Amelia Peterson is the Programme Director of the London Interdisciplinary School (LIS) MBA, a reimagining of business and management education that starts with the acknowledgement that we live in a world of complex adaptive systems. She was part of the founding faculty of LIS, and has served as part of the leadership team evolving the model of a new university.

She worked previously in public sector innovation in the UK and internationally, and is the co-author of A Chance to Solve Their Own Problems (Harvard University Press) and Thrive: The Purpose of Schools in A Changing World (Cambridge University press).

Venue:
Effra Social, 89 Effra Road SW2 1DF

Event Running Time:
(We recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only)
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 if you have requested 7 days 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.