Each fall, the Russell Jacobs Lecture in Philosophy brings an outstanding guest philosopher to Washburn University for a public talk and discussion. Find this year’s lecture details and past speakers below.
Lecturer: Dr. Kit Wellman
Date: September 24, 2026
Time: 7 p.m. Lecture will be followed by Q&A and a reception
Location: Memorial Union, Washburn A on the Washburn campus
2026 Lecture: Does Injustice Have a Half-Life? A Philosophical Study on Reparations
Dr. Christopher Heath "Kit" Wellman will examine and respond to the idea that the effects of historical injustice may diminish over time. Drawing on examples including slavery and the forced removal of the Cherokee, he will consider whether rights to reparations or restitution persist across generations and explore philosopher Jeremy Waldron's influential work on how moral rights can change over time.
Dr. Wellman teaches philosophy at Washington University in St. Louis. He works in ethics, specializing in political and legal philosophy. His recent book, "Rights and Resistance," was published by Oxford University Press in 2025.
About the Russell Jacobs Lecture in Philosophy
Named for Washburn emeritus faculty member, Russell Jacobs, this annual lecture in Philosophy is to bring outstanding philosophers and discussion of their work to Washburn University. It is held in the fall and is always free and open to the public. Emeritus faculty member Russell Jacobs established this lecture upon his retirement.
Sign up to receive email updates
2025 - Dr. Philip Kitcher
2024 - Dr. Robert B. Talisse
2023 - Dr. Clare Palmer of Texas A&M University
2022 - Dr. Agnes Callard of University of Chicago
GET IN TOUCH WITH Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies
Philosophy and Religious Studies Department
Morgan Hall, Room 206
1700 SW College Ave.
Topeka, KS 66621
Phone & Email
785.670.2230
phil-rg@washburn.edu
