The second lecture of the Willy Calewaert Chair explored the theme Constructing, Managing, and Embracing Risk in Martial Arts. Building on the broader concept of non‑violent combat, this session examined how martial arts function as a social framework through which participants engage with varying levels of socially desirable risk—risks that are created through and experienced with one another’s bodies.
The lecture investigated how martial artists imagine and interpret the risks associated with “real” violence, and how the process of learning to fight helps them to psychologically manage these perceptions. It also highlighted concrete risk‑management practices within competitive combat sports, illustrating how risk is not only mitigated but also socially constructed as a valued and even appealing experience for practitioners and spectators alike.
The second lecture took place on 4 March 2026.
We are pleased to share that the photo gallery is now available via the link: Willy Calewaert Chair Lecture 2
The full presentation can also be viewed online through the accompanying link, check: Beyond the fight - lecture 2