As I work toward completing my #PhD, I will continue to focus on #citizenship as it applies to conflict resolution, and the engagement of civil society in post-conflict #peacebuilding. For those interested in learning more, this book is a great place to start. #politicalcommunication

Breaking out of our subject and consumer mentalities, where we consider ourselves powerless, impatient, and dependent, can be immensely rewarding personally and professionally.

📑 Since then, I've started a PhD which examines how citizens (specifically, religious leaders) have embraced their role by contributing to peacebuilding in Northern Ireland.

👨‍🏫 I've also taught at The University of Sheffield on political storytelling + strategy to develop my thinking further.

Shortly before the 2019 UK General Election, I wrote a piece explaining why I thought there is an opening for parties willing to focus on the renewal of citizenship.

4+ years later, I believe that opening remains.

👉 tomparkin.org/2019/11/12/t...

The book sets out why and how we can all take action through seven modes: telling stories, gathering data, sharing connections, contributing ideas, giving time, learning skills, and crowdfunding.

The blog also includes links to useful books and videos I used to apply for my #PhD, pass my confirmation review, and finish my second year.

tomparkinwrites.medium.com/8-tips-for-n...

Taxpayers, students, researchers, councils, and central government have every right to ask what their ROI is.

But unless we broaden our understanding of what a "return" on #HE investment looks like, what we can achieve with our universities is limited.

What abt social capital/soft power etc...?

Their own economic contribution is either forgotten/ignored by politicians/press unwilling or unable to see their financial and cultural value.

Too often, politicians seem unable to articulate a plan for universities because they cannot answer a broader question:

What is #education for?

Another here, Tobias! Many thanks