Pre-eminent philosopher, A.C. Grayling, returns to the Byron Shire on April 22 to discuss one of the most urgent issues of our time: fighting authoritarianism and saving democracy.
Presented by the Byron Writers Festival, organisers say, ‘Around the world the foundations of democracy, freedom, civil liberties are being eroded – what can be done?’
‘Are we living through the end of the democratic moment? While democracy once seemed the bedrock of Western societies, the past few decades have revealed a fragile reality. Once liberal countries are turning to authoritarianism, wealthy individuals and corporations are interfering with elections ever more flagrantly, and faith in democracy has plummeted among every demographic. What happened?
‘From gerrymandering and partisanship to corporate interference and tainted donations, A. C. Grayling reveals the forces undermining our democratic ideals and offers bold solutions. An urgent wake-up call to the risks this poses to us all, For The People reminds us why democracy remains worth fighting for.
Where: Brunswick Picture House, 30 Fingal Street, Brunswick Heads
When: Wednesday 22 April, 2026 | 6:30pm
Cost: $40 General | $35 Festival Friend Member | $32 Byron Theatre Housemates + booking fees
‘Discounts can’t be combined – for people who are Housemates and Festival Friends select your preferred ticket’, say organisers.
About AC Grayling
‘A.C Grayling is the Founder and Principal of the New College of the Humanities at Northeastern University London, and a Professor of Philosophy. He is the author of numerous influential works spanning philosophy, humanism, ethics, and public affairs. His books include The God Argument: The Case against Religion and for Humanism, The History of Philosophy, The Meaning of Things: Applying Philosophy to Life, Wittgenstein: A Very Short Introduction, The Good Book: A Humanist Bible, Life, Sex and Ideas: The Good Life Without God, Discriminations, For the People, Who Owns the Moon?, and The Challenge of the Future. Professor Grayling is also a longstanding and regular contributor to leading publications, including The Times, The Guardian, Financial Times, The Economist, and New Statesman’.
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