Fiona Doyle
Settler colonialism, land-class relations, extractivism, conservation, and human/non-human relations
- M.A.
Before beginning your studies at the Institute of Political Economy where did you study and what program(s) were you enrolled in?
I completed my undergraduate degree here at Carleton University. I started in the Public Affairs and Policy Management program before transferring into Human Rights and Social Justice.
What is it specifically that attracted you to study Political Economy at Carleton?
I feel like everyone says it is because of the program’s interdisciplinary approach, but it is so true! I think for myself what drew me most to the program was the critical orientation of the program and the cross-appointed faculty. I did not want to enter a program designed to tell students how the world works and to teach them how to reproduce the status quo. Rather, I wanted to be in a program that encourages critical inquiry of social relations and productive forces for the purpose of transformative change(s). If you are like me, then I would definitely recommend this program because it has met all my expectations in this regard.
My areas of research interest include…
Settler colonialism, land-class relations, extractivism, conservation, and human/non-human relations
What activities have you been involved in lately?
I did a lot of work with the Hassan Diab Support Committee throughout 2023 to bring attention to the ongoing persecution that Dr. Diab (a Carleton University instructor) faces from the French State. I also correspond with an incarcerated pen pal as a practice of abolitionist politics.
Since starting the program, I have joined the organizing committee for our annual graduate student conference, I am working as a TA and as an RA with the Extinction Paradox project.
What advice would you give to a prospective Political Economy graduate student?
Slow down and take your time, whether that is with your readings, your coursework, or any other school-related responsibilities. As burgeoning political economists, I think it is important for us to critically refuse the exploitation of our labour time (as much as possible). I also would advise you to follow your gut when it comes to research interests – don’t be afraid to pursue new interests even if they are different from what you studied in your undergrad.