The Commons Institute was founded by James Arvanitakis in 2004.
James is based at University of Technology, Sydney (Australia), in the Social Inquiry area of the Humanities and Social Sciences Faculty. He is an academic and a co-convenor of the Research Initiative on International Activism. He completed his PhD at the University of NSW where he looked at the contestation between neo-liberalism and social movements concentrating on the commons, displacement and crisis management. James submitted his PhD, titled Hope and Abundance, in October 2005 and was awarded with a doctorate in March 2006.
James has held a various of positions with non-government organizations in Australia, including that of Director with Aid/Watch, an independent watchdog of Australia’s official overseas aid program. James remains involved with that organisation and is on its board. He is also heavily involved with Oxfam Australia’s International Youth Parliament, where he edited their major report for 2004 titled “Highly affected, rarely considered: the impact of globalisation on young people” which was launched in 75 nations simultaneously.
Formerly a successful banker and economist, some years ago he changed his life looking for more balance. He now co-convenes The Commons Institute, established in recognition that the concept of the commons is currently under threat in our society and that public space and resources once considered as human rights are being “enclosed.” He is also involved in Network 2024 (Plus 20), a project that aims to develop an alternative vision for Australia in 20 years time. James has authored many papers and is also a regular media commentator on issues ranging from ‘hope’ to ‘globalisation’.
James’ areas of research include globalisation, social movements and understanding how functioning and authentic communities operate as well as how communities can break down. He has researched and worked extensively in Australia, the Pacific, Asia and Europe.
Other articles printed by James...
Time to stop the social engineering.
This article first published on www.newmatilda.com, responds to those who 'fantasize' that that there is only one type of 'family' and no such thing as diversity...
