Space for Thought Literary Festival - London School of Economics

As one of the top universities not just in the country but in the world, the London School of Economics (LSE) has a reputation as a place of great learning and progressive thinking. What is less well-known is that, for several years now, it has hosted its very own literary festival.

It began in 2008 with an inaugural lecture series to mark the completion of the New Academic Building – not the most glamorous or exciting of origins, perhaps, but it kicked-started an annual festival that prides itself on rigorously exploring how the social sciences and the arts grapple with the world around us. It regularly pulls in an eclectic mix of popular novelists - including Tracey Chevalier and AS Byatt this year - notable scientists and leading academics.

There’s lots packed in, with carefully curated talks and panel discussions, as well as film screenings, workshops and even children’s events. Each year the festival has a theme designed to provoke thought and debate. This year's buzzword is ‘Reflections’ – a catch-all phrase which encompasses literature, art and social issues as well as science, politics and health. 

Events tend to bring several speakers together under one stimulating, sometimes provocative title. So you’ll find events such as ‘Reflections on love, laughter and friendship’; ‘Self-help: myth or reality?’ and ‘Don’t judge a book by its cover: reflecting content by design’. There’s  ‘Reflections on the impact of HIV and Aids’; ‘How we feel: what neuroscience can and can’t tell us about our emotions’ and ‘Gang culture: on screen and in print’.

Given this important centenary year, the First World War will be well covered. Among the discussions is ‘Voices of the Great War’, in which Sebastian Faulks will be inviting other writers to share literature from the period.

Expect Space for Thought to be more probing, exacting and possibly even more inspiring than your average literary festival, but also accessible. All events are free, but you’ll still need to request an e-ticket – bag yours as soon as they become available on 4th February.