Business History through the Lens of [De]colonisation: A Focus on Birmingham Business School

The final seminar in the series highlighted ongoing work, aiming to inspire new questions and collaborations in teaching and research

University house, Birmingham Business School

The seminar began with a recap of themes from our three guest speakers. Keith Hoskin from the Accounting Department discussed the evolution of discipline-specific knowledge and the role of textbooks. He emphasised the current emphasis on numerical grading as a measure of learning.

Dr. Eric Melander from Economics presented “The Sociopolitical Effects of Austerity: Historical Perspectives from the New Poor Law.” He shared insights from his research on welfare cuts and crime, and social unrest, drawing parallels to the New Poor Law of 1834.

Stephanie Decker and Elena Giovannoni presented their linked research themes: “Rethinking Methods Boundaries” and “Rethinking Educational Boundaries.” Their work supports decolonizing projects across the School.

Elena Giovannoni’s research explores the significance of visualization in accounting history. Her interdisciplinary approach offers new insights into accounting’s relationship with heritage assets, music, and the arts.

Dr. Thomas Sebastian discussed decolonizing the economics curriculum. He highlighted the need to expose eurocentrism in the field and explore non-Eurocentric perspectives to address structural oppression.