Public Events
Big ideas, wider audience.
Ecademi takes academic ideas beyond the university and into the public sphere. Through national tours with leading academics, online events, and live discussions, we create space for complex topics to be explored in ways that are accessible, relevant, and thought-provoking. The goal: to spark conversation, challenge assumptions, and bring critical thinking into the mainstream.
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A History of Modern Britain in Twenty Murders (2025)
What does our history of murder tell us about Britain and what it means to be British?
In this powerful new live event, Professor David Wilson, one of the UK’s leading criminologists, brings his latest book A History of Modern Britain in 20 Murders1885-2025 to the stage.
Known for his gripping storytelling and deep insight into criminal behaviour, Wilson explores murder cases in our nation’s history to discover the times in which they occurred - and what they continue to reveal about Britain today.
September - October 2025
Online - The Psychology of School Shootings with Professor Claire Allely
Join Professor Clare Allely, a leading forensic psychologist, for an in-depth exploration of the complex psychological, neurodevelopmental, and social factors that contribute to school shootings.
School shootings remain one of the most devastating forms of extreme violence, leaving lasting impacts on victims, families, and communities. Yet, despite widespread media coverage, misconceptions persist about the individuals who commit these crimes and the underlying causes that drive them to such acts.
Tuesday 11th November 2025 - 19:30 (Online via Zoom)
Online - Could You Spot a Liar? The Science Behind Deception with Prof Aldert Vrij
How confident are you in your ability to detect a lie? Most of us think we can tell when someone is being dishonest - but what does the science actually say?Join us for an exclusive online event with world-renowned deception expert Professor Aldert Vrij, whose groundbreaking research has shaped how police, security services, and psychologists across the globe approach lie detection.
In this eye-opening session, Professor Vrij will explore:Why we’re not as good at spotting lies as we thinkThe psychological and behavioural science behind deceptionCommon myths about liars - and why they persist.
Friday 21st November 2025 - 19:30 (Online via Zoom)
The Tartan Noir Tour (2026) Scotland
Join criminologist Professor David Wilson and journalist Martin Frizell for an unflinching exploration of Scotland’s relationship with crime - both real and imagined.
In this fascinating live event, they examine how tartan noir fiction has shaped public perceptions of violence, justice and identity, contrasting it with the realities of true crime and modern Scotland’s remarkable progress in reducing lethal violence.Drawing on their acclaimed podcast This Much is True Crime and David’s award-winning TV and writing career, the duo discuss notorious Scottish cases, the myth of the serial killer, and what can really make our country safer.
Informative, provocative, and darkly entertaining - True Crime Tartan Noir challenges what we think we know about murder in modern Scotland.
My Life with Murderers (2026) NI/Ireland
Professor David Wilson has spent his professional life working with violent men - especially men who have committed murder. A former prison Governor his career has seen him sitting across a table with all sorts of killers: sometimes in a tense interview; sometimes sharing a cup of tea (or something a little stronger); sometimes looking them in the eye to tell them that they are a psychopath. Some of these men became David's friends; others would still love to kill him.
Expect a fascinating insight into the motivations of murder and its consequences for society.The event will also include a question and answer session.
Coming to Northern Ireland and Ireland in 2026.