THE INSTITUTE
A realist think tank for a
multipolar, multicultural world.
Pickthall House is a London-based realist think tank concerned with
multipolarity and multiculturalism, with particular focus on the Muslim world.
On foreign affairs, Pickthall House believes that engagement with the Muslim world is a key strategic objective for
Britain and the West more generally. After all, it is the intermediate region in which both poles of global power
will vie for influence and control. We believe Britain has a historical diplomatic advantage here that has recently
been eroding, and which requires only small but sensible policy adjustments to cultivate and restore.
Domestically, we aim to promote harmonious relations between the various religious and ethnic groups in the
West. We further believe that we have a specific understanding of the cultural grievances of the Muslim
population — some of which are justified and need to be attended to, and others which are not, and need to be
countered cogently and effectively.
The work of Pickthall House is entirely self-funded by its directors.
Freedom
Pickthall House believes in upholding and extending Britain's proud tradition of safeguarding the freedom of the individuals and communities that comprise our society.
Freedom of expression
The "marketplace of ideas", for all its imperfections, remains the best mechanism for the collective pursuit of truth. This requires a framework of norms promoting civil but robust argument, even about the most controversial subjects, and a culture of epistemic humility.
Freedom of (non-)religion
Citizens of all faiths and none have a vital
interest in the freedom to form and act out their convictions. We support the equal civic status of all religious communities, and their freedom from repression and surveillance, while respecting the symbolic role of Christian traditions in the state.
Neutrality
The substance of the law should rest not on any one religion, nor on atheist philosophies, but on values common to all communities — what the philosopher John Rawls called the ideal of public reason.
Pragmatism
A practical, goal-oriented, and evidence-based approach to policy-making that is guided by clear values but pursues them flexibly and undogmatically.
Flexibility
In a rapidly changing world order — with evolving technology, markets, interests and demographics — Britain must remain in contact with reality and adapt its strategies and tactics to this ever-changing environment.
Evidence
Knowledge is power, and Britain must never confuse the map with the territory. We make the best decisions given the information we have — and update them when new information comes to light.
Realism
A successful strategy hinges on a realistic assessment of Britain's existing economic, military and diplomatic resources. The primary determinant of strategically relevant partners is those with whom partnership advances Britain's pragmatic aims.
Results
Ultimately, Pickthall House is interested in practical results rather than getting mired in ideology for its own sake. Pure theory is the province of the enervated and irrelevant.
Principled and pragmatic policy for a plural United
Kingdom.
If our mission resonates with you, there are several direct ways to step in and make a
difference.
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