"The Politics of Nostalgia: What Happened To Tomorrow?"

"The Politics of Nostalgia: What Happened To Tomorrow? "
with Louisa Toxværd Munch

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. As a PhD candidate at the University of Warwick, 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:
Fairfield Social Club
Irk St
M4 4 JT


Event Running Time:
Doors 12pm
Introduction: 12:25pm
Lecture: 12:30pm
Q&A: 13:15pm
Mix & mingle with other attendees 13:25pm
Wrap up 13:45pm

Food:
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.

FAQ

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 (about 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by audience Q&A. 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.

Is there food available?

Yes, there is always the option to purchase food at our events.

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.

Is the event dog friendly?

Yes, Pints of Knowledge at Drygate is dog friendly. We request that dogs are on a leash and well behaved. If there's persistent disturbance you will be asked to leave.