معرفی
Dr James Hickson serves as a Research Associate at the Heseltine Institute for Public Policy, Practice and Place, University of Liverpool, a role he assumed in 2021 after completing his PhD. His expertise lies at the intersection of political theory, philosophy, and economics, with a focus on urban and local policy challenges. Previously, he contributed to long-term economic strategy as a Research Officer for the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and gained international perspective through visiting positions at Harvard University, Humboldt University of Berlin, and the Royal Society of Arts.
Hickson's educational foundation includes advanced degrees in political theory and international relations:
- PhD in Politics, University of York
- MA in Legal and Political Theory, University College London (UCL)
- BA in Politics and International Relations, Royal Holloway, University of London
His research program critically examines three interwoven themes: (1) the future of work and labour market regulation through the lens of republican freedom (non-domination), particularly addressing insecure employment in the gig economy; (2) spatial inequality and local economic development, with attention to 'left behind' communities; and (3) local governance and democracy, analyzing the trajectory of English devolution. This work aims to bridge normative political theory with empirical policy analysis to advance concepts of freedom, equality, and justice in contemporary governance.
Hickson's recent publications (2022-2025) demonstrate a consistent application of political theory to pressing policy issues. Key trends include rigorous critiques of 'levelling up' rhetoric, exploration of freedom in precarious work arrangements, and development of a local political theory framework. His interdisciplinary output—spanning academic journals, policy reports, and public commentary—engages with labour economics, urban studies, and democratic theory to inform both scholarly discourse and practical governance solutions.
As a member of the Heseltine Institute, Hickson collaborates within a multidisciplinary research environment focused on place-based policy innovation. The institute serves as a hub for analyzing public policy challenges through the lens of geography, governance, and economic development, providing a platform for his research on localism and devolution.
