This talk is co-hosted by the Oxford Martin School and the Oxford Institute of Population Ageing, to celebrate their 20th Anniversary

Are we really living in a post-truth world where everyone is addicted to fake news? If so, what are the implications for communicating science and expert knowledge? The Frameworks Institute has harvested the most up-to-date understanding of how people think and what affects their thinking from across the social sciences. Their research methods identify the words and ideas that shift public attitudes - along with those that backfire or fail to drive change. Nicky Hawkins will share insights drawn from FrameWorks' research on communicating a wide range of scientific and social issues including early childhood development, climate change and inequality.

About the speaker

Nicky Hawkins is a communications strategist, supporting the FrameWorks Institute’s work in the United Kingdom. Nicky has worked in communications for UK nonprofit organisations for 15 years, including shaping and delivering campaigns on climate change and child poverty. Most recently, Nicky led a strategic communications initiative on human rights and social justice, working with partners across the UK nonprofit sector and civil society.

Nicky specialises in applying framing recommendations in practice, including through film and via the media. She delivers regular talks and workshops, writes for media outlets including The Guardian, and is passionate about communications that change minds.

Nicky holds a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from the University of Leeds and postgraduate diplomas in marketing and public relations.