How should we understand the relationship between societies’ economic and social security, and national security in a globalized world? The lecture explores how Europeans – as well as historians of Europe – approached this question in the era of the two world wars. The problem has renewed relevance in our own times with the return of war, sanctions and protectionism at a time of climate crisis. The lecture reveals some of the answers offered by individual people, and groups with big ideas in Europe’s darkest hours, and draws on insights from a diverse cast of actors, economists, painters, scientists and politicians. They include Charlie Chaplin, Charlotte Leubuscher, George Grosz, Harriette Chick and William Beveridge.

The lecture will be followed by a drinks reception from 18:00-19:00.