The abrupt closure of the Philosophy programmes at Middlesex University is a matter of national and indeed international concern. Not only does it flatly contradict the stated commitment of Middlesex University to promote ‘research excellence’, it represents a startling stage in the ongoing impoverishment of Philosophy provision in the UK.

I don’t think it is stretching a point to argue that the decision to close down philosophy at Middlesex is related intimately to the squeezing of space in the country at large for a questioning youth work practice. Both philosophy and an emancipatory Youth Work seek to create active, critical citizens, for whom everything is always up for scrutiny.

For more info, go to Middlesex Philosophy The students have just been served an High Court injunction to end their occupation of the Mansion building. To register your support, sign the petition.

To capture a flavour of events, listen to Tariq Ali speaking outside the Mansion building on Kentucky Fried Chicken; The Market assault on Reason.