Södertörn Center for Ancient Philosophy or SCAPh was founded in 2024 to bring together researchers and students from around to the word specializing in ancient Greek philosophy. Its purpose is to promote scholarhip, foster collaboration, exchange ideas, and explore innovative applications of ancient wisdom to address contemporary challenges. The center organizes workshops, conferances, hosts guest lectures and provides resources for researchers and students with the purpose of fostering a vibrant and relevant community of scholars.
The enduring relevance of the ancient Greek intellectual tradition to contemporary challenges is a testament to its profound and enduring wisdom. Historical precedent attests to the pivotal role played by classical philosophy in navigating periods of societal upheaval. From the crucible of conflict and crisis, the Hellenic world offered models of governance, ethics, and social order that have continued to inspire and inform subsequent generations.
Our present epoch is undeniably one of such upheaval. The specter of ecological collapse casts a long shadow over our collective future, necessitating a radical re-evaluation of our values and priorities. Moreover, the corrosive effects of hyper-competitiveness and polarization within many contemporary democracies have exposed the limitations of our current political systems. The legitimacy of late capitalism and its representative structures is increasingly questioned.
In this context, a renewed dialogue with the ancient Greek tradition offers a compelling opportunity for critical reflection and innovative thinking. By examining the philosophical and political ideas of figures such as Plato, Aristotle, and the pre-Socratics, we may unearth insights capable of informing more just, equitable, and sustainable societies. Such an endeavor, however, necessitates a twofold commitment: rigorous scholarly inquiry into the primary sources and a sustained engagement with the complexities of the contemporary world.
To fully realize the potential of this dialogue, a multidisciplinary approach is essential. Research must not merely be focused and detailed, but also encompass a broad spectrum of disciplines, drawing upon linguistic, historical, philosophical, anthropological, and religious perspectives. Such an interdisciplinary lens is essential for illuminating the multifaceted nature of the ancient world and its enduring relevance.
In many leading cultural nations, this model of comprehensive research on antiquity has flourished. Institutions such as Oxford’s Network for Ancient Philosophy, the Centre Léon Robin de recherche sur la pensée antique at the Sorbonne, and the Harvard Center for Hellenic Studies exemplify the value of a multidisciplinary approach. These centers have cultivated vibrant intellectual communities dedicated to exploring the ancient world from diverse angles, fostering innovation and groundbreaking discoveries.
Inspired by these exemplars, SCAPh seeks to establish a similar platform in Sweden. By cultivating a collaborative environment that brings together scholars from various disciplines, we aim to create a dynamic space for exploring the complexities of ancient Greek thought. Our focus will be on the intersection of philosophy, politics, and society, with a particular emphasis on the challenges and opportunities presented by the contemporary world.
As a foundational step, SCAPh will launch a four-year research project centered on Plato and Political Dialectic 🔗. Exploring Plato’s political philosophy, with a particular emphasis on the use and possibilities of the dialogue form, this project does not only aim to deepen and advance our understanding of Plato’s political philosophy in general, but also to contribute to a broader conversation about the future of democracy, citizenship, and the role of reason in public life.
However, this is merely a starting point. SCAPh envisions a broader research agenda that encompasses a wider range of figures, texts, and periods. Through a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach, SCAPh seeks to establish itself as a prominent center for the study of ancient Greek thought, fostering international cooperation and dialouge among scholars and researchers. The goal, however, is not only to advance historical knowledge but also to contribute to public discourse on pressing contemporary issues by drawing upon the wisdom and insights of the past.
If you want to know more about the researchers and pepole involved in this project, you can read more here.