David Keen

Professor David Keen is a Professor of Conflict Studies at the Department of International Development, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). He holds a doctorate from Oxford University and specializes in conflict studies, civil war analysis, and the intersection of politics with humanitarian crises. His research explores the political economy of violence, famine, and human rights in regions such as Northern Iraq, Sierra Leone, and Sudan.

Keen’s work critiques how language, emotions, and crises are manipulated by power structures. His notable books include Shame: The Politics and Power of an Emotion, Wreckonomics, and When Disasters Come Home, which examine themes like shame in modern politics, the failures of 'war on everything' policies, and crisis exploitation in Western democracies. He has also published extensively on topics including humanitarian interventions, the functions of violence in civil wars, and global political dynamics.

Keen frequently engages with public discourse, speaking at events such as the Oxford Literary Festival. His research emphasizes understanding the hidden functions of conflict and the role of elites in shaping crises. His work bridges academic analysis with real-world policy implications, offering critical insights into contemporary global challenges.