With a focus on decolonising the curriculum, and as part of our Anti-Racism Series, guest speaker Gurnam Singh will discuss the idea of human intelligence.
Though the concept of ‘general intelligence’ appears to be benign, experience would suggest that ideas of who is and who is not deemed ‘intelligent’ are deeply implicated in the development and justification of various forms of oppression and violence.
Historically, intelligence was presented as an objective scientific measure of cognitive ability, yet it was always dependent on mechanisms of Othering. These mechanisms were implemented with devastating effect to construct, discipline, and erase people in colonised lands and still lives on in subtle forms and throughout higher education.
Building on critiques of dominant conceptions of knowledge, as well as knowledge production and possession, Gurnam Singh will argue that we need to reject the idea of human intelligence and that only by recognising the inherent capacity of all human beings to be thinkers and producers of knowledge can we begin to develop authentic and non-violent forms of assessment.
Anti Racism Series
DMU is proud to be working towards becoming an anti-racist university.
We understand that the fulfilment of this goal will include education, awareness and an understanding of how barriers within society and academia have and continue to prohibit this work within our institution and the sector.
Therefore, as part of our commitment and in collaboration with EDI, Decolonising DMU, the B.A.M.E. Staff Network and Library Learning Services, we are planning a year-long Anti-Racism Series that will host events, lectures and panels to discuss and explore topics, which will enable students and staff to learn, ask questions and be part of DMU’s changing culture.
Bookings will close 1 hour prior to the start of the event. Please contact the DMU Events Office on eventsoffice@dmu.ac.uk if you have any questions.
This event is open to all.