"What Is the Social of Socialism?" The Palm Springs School for Social Research Inaugural Conference

​What is the social of socialism?

Join us in Frankfurt for the launch of the Palm Springs School for Social Research. This two-day conference brings together leading theorists and writers to address the question: What is the social of socialism?

​Contemporary liberalism has become an obstacle to the full flourishing of societies and subjects. Founded by Catherine Liu, the PSSSR draws on the legacy of the Frankfurt School. We aim to advance rigorous forms of theoretical engagement with the present that are largely absent from traditional institutions of any political orientation.

​Program:

​June 12, 2026
Catherine Liu
Vivek Chibber
George Hoare
Roger Lancaster

​June 13, 2026
Catherine Liu
Jennifer C. Pan
Brad Troemel
Tara Heffernan
Lee Jones

A catered lunch will be provided on both days.

​This conference is conceived as an intimate, in-person gathering, with time set aside for sustained discussion, exchange, and conversation beyond the formal sessions.