The discussion, under the title “Academies and Society,” will explore the evolving relationship between academic institutions and the societies they serve, drawing on the historical trajectories of organizations such as the ASCSA, AAR, the Gennadius Library, and the Academy of Athens. The conversation will examine how the humanities and social sciences are responding to contemporary social, cultural, and educational pressures, including differing perspectives across Europe, Greece, and the Anglo-American world, while also reflecting on their enduring value and relevance for future generations. Participants will consider the transformative impact of technological change on scholarship, institutions, and public life, and whether academia can shape these developments proactively rather than reactively. Finally, the discussion will address contrasting models of funding and philanthropy, exploring the respective roles of the state and private benefaction in sustaining intellectual and cultural institutions, and how patterns of philanthropy themselves are changing in the modern era.

The discussion will be in English. Simultaneous interpretation will be provided.