Date: 1st of May, 2026 from 09:00 to 18:00

Location: LONDON ROAD L22 110
University of Reading, Reading

Details: While once neglected among philosophers, animals have recently become much more central to philosophical debates, from the philosophy of mind to ethics and political philosophy. In part, this reflects the growing public demand to take animal rights and welfare more seriously. Thanks to the work of philosophers, the UK government even changed their legislation to recognise octopuses and decapod crustaceans (shrimp, lobsters, crabs) as sentient creatures worthy of protection. The study of animal minds has profound implications for how we ought to treat other species. As our understanding of animal cognition, sentience, and emotional capacities continues to advance, philosophers and scientists face pressing questions about what these discoveries entail for ethics, policy, and philosophy itself.

The Ratio Annual Conference 2026 brings together five leading philosophers working on animals to discuss the future of animals, within the field of philosophy, as well as science and public policy:

· Heather Browning (University of Southampton)

· Oscar Horta (University of Santiago de Compostela)

· Kyle Johannsen (Trent University & Queen’s University)

· Josh Milburn (Loughborough University)

· Walter Veit (University of Reading)

Lunch will be provided. All are welcome, but spaces are limited!

Registration required.

Register at: https://www.store.reading.ac.uk/conferences-and-events/school-of-philosophy-politics-and-economics/philosophy/ratio-annual-conference-on-animals-and-philosophy

Contact: For any queries, contact the organiser: Walter Veit (w.r.w.veit@reading.ac.uk)