2012 - Keele University
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Politics, International Relations & Philosophy

Inaugural Lecture of Kurt Richard Luther

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Posted on 29 February 2012

On Monday 27 February 2012, Professor Luther gave his inaugural lecture in the Westminster Theatre.

Richard Luther Richard Luther  

The chair was the Vice-Chancellor of Keele University, Professor Nick Foskett. Professor Luther's work ranges over a number of areas, such as party organization, right-wing radical and extremist parties, political stability in deeply divided societies, European political parties, federalism and Austrian politics.

The abstract of his lecture was as follows: Political parties have for over 100 years played a central role in the theory and practice of modern democracy, constituting a vital link between the demos and the politicians to whom the exercise of the affairs of the state is temporarily entrusted. There is thus much to be said for Schattschneider's 1942 dictum that "democracy is unthinkable save in terms of ... parties". Yet political parties have always been contested institutions. The media frequently portrays them as at best untrustworthy and at worst corrupt, whilst even nuanced academic analyses assert that they are becoming increasingly redundant. Drawing on his work on contemporary western European party politics, Professor Luther will explore current research into the changing role of political parties, identify the main challenges they face and consider their likely future shape.

Listen to Sarah J's interview with Prof. Luther on Cross Rhythms radio, 101.8FM

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