Organized by the Federation, Big Thinking is a lecture series featuring the best Canadian research and scholarly work in the social sciences and the humanities. Held on Parliament Hill up to six times a year, the Big Thinking lectures bring research directly to the attention of elected officials, policy-makers, government officials, NGOs and the media.

While reaching Parliamentarians, these talks demonstrate the importance of humanities and social science research in the development of public policy and in contributing to the quality of life of Canadians.

Over the years, they have helped sustain the dialogue between scholars and users of research results on issues of concern to Canadians such as poverty, government response to the recession, political leadership, climate change and religion in the Canadian secular society.

Open to Parliamentarians, media and the public, the Big Thinking talks are held in the prestigious and historical setting of the parliamentary restaurant. The 40 minute presentation is followed by a question and answer period.

The event runs from 7:45 am to 9 am and costs $15, but is free for parliamentarians and the media. A hot breakfast is served.

Previous Seminars

"Pension Reform: How Canada can lead?"  Keith Ambachtsheer [12/05/10]
Missed the presentation? Listen to it here: Click here to download.

"Achieving a Low-carbon, High-octane Economy: How Federal Fiscal and Policy Reform Can Lead the Way" Stewart Elgie [01/04/10]
Missed the presentation? Listen to it here: Click here to download.