The Faculty of Philosophy and Psychology at Yerevan State University hosted Oxford University Professor Jonathan Wolff, who delivered a lecture titled "Social Trust and the Role of Government."
Introducing Professor Wolff, Dean of the Faculty of Philosophy and Psychology, Associate Professor Aleksan Baghdasaryan noted that Wolff is a distinguished professor in philosophy and public policy at the Blavatnik School of Government at the University of Oxford, a senior research fellow in philosophy and public policy, and a supernumerary fellow at Wolfson College, Oxford. He emphasized that Wolff is one of the most prominent representatives of contemporary political philosophy, whose work focuses on the ethical dimensions of public policy. In recognition of his significant contribution to philosophy, Professor Wolff has served since 2023 as President of the Royal Institute of Philosophy, one of the leading institutions for public philosophy in the United Kingdom.
It was further highlighted during the meeting that Professor Wolff began his academic career in political philosophy. He has authored numerous works on distributive justice, freedom, and the moral foundations of public institutions. His research addresses social issues such as poverty, public safety, disability, and the ethical dimensions of public policy. His scholarly work is characterized by a rare combination of philosophical rigor and public relevance, reflecting his conviction that philosophy should illuminate not only abstract theory but also the moral dilemmas faced by governments and citizens.
Professor Wolff's published books, including An Introduction to Political Philosophy, continue to introduce students in many countries to analytic political philosophy. Drawing on his extensive research, he presented patterns of trust and distrust in government, arguing that governments expecting the trust of their citizens must also demonstrate that they themselves trust the public.
The lecture was followed by a Q&A session, during which participants engaged in a substantive discussion of the topics presented.
