MAY CONFERENCE: Edge of Chaos: Exploring Dynamic Symmetry Theory and the Science of Complexity
The Royal Society, London – 15 May 2026
On 15 May, The Schweitzer Institute and The Oxford Quarterly Journal of Symmetry & Asymmetry (OXQ) co-hosted a conference at the Royal Society in London: “Edge of Chaos: Exploring Dynamic Symmetry Theory and the Science of Complexity” explored how many important systems – from ecosystems and economies to cities, hospitals, and individual lives – function most effectively not in strict order or in complete disorder, but in the controlled middle ground between the two.
For further information, click on 'The Royal Society' link.
APRIL CONFERENCE: Governmental Animal Protection Commission
Westminster - 21 April 2026
Over the past year, the Schweitzer Institute has been working with the CASJ developing a Cambridge-based platform to establish the philosophical and legal foundations for a Governmental Animal Protection Commission (APC). The next step is to convene a series of hybrid-format seminars in Parliament. These meetings are designed to engage policymakers directly, demonstrate cross‑party support for improved animal protection governance, and prepare the ground for future legislative drafting.
The first Schweitzer Institute/CASJ parliamentary conference, titled 'Draft proposal for a Government Animal Protection Commission - Exploring a framework to secure due regard for animal welfare’, was co-hosted with Adrian Ramsay MP. It took place at Westminster on Tuesday 21 April 2026. For further information, click on the 'Westminster' link.
NOVEMBER CONFERENCE: 'Promoting Responsible Governance of Animal Protection: Policy Reform for an Ethical Future'
Cambridge University - 21 November
The Schweitzer Institute was pleased to partner with the Centre for Animals & Social Justice (CASJ) for our Michaelmas Term conference, ‘Promoting Responsible Governance of Animal Protection: Policy Reform for an Ethical Future’. The event took place at the Faculty of Divinity on Friday, 21 November 2025, bringing together academics, legal experts, policy-makers, and advocates to address how animal protection can be advanced through more effective, transparent, and accountable governance.
Videos of the talks can be accessed here