'Unpicking threads: The language and ethics of suicide and disability'

Professor Gavin Fairbairn presented his Inaugural Lecture ‘Unpicking Threads; The language and ethics of suicide and disability’ to over 90 attendees, on Tuesday 17th October.

Gavin’s entertaining and thought provoking lecture was dedicated to his wife and co-author, Susan Fairbairn.     

Following an introduction by the Vice-Chancellor Professor Simon Lee, Gavin went on to discuss the language of both suicide and disability, drawing attention to the ethical importance of thinking carefully about the words we use in relation to each.

The lecture was punctuated by music from Faith Fairbairn and Nicola Lyons.

The lecture was followed by a buffet reception at Queenswood, with music provided by Liam Robinson and Thomas Fairbairn.

To view the lecture click here.

About the speaker

Gavin Fairbairn is Running Stream Professor of Ethics and Language. He describes himself as ‘a teacher and jobbing philosopher’ and thinks he has two really useful skills – the first in asking really difficult questions, and the second in ‘catching’ what other people are trying to say in their written work, and helping them to say it better. His academic and professional interests focus on two main areas – academic literacy and style, and applied philosophy and ethics, especially the ethics of care.

Click here for a full Biography.