Thinking Borders Podcast: Thomas Nail on Movement & Migration | E-IR

The latest episode of the Thinking Global Podcast, released March 2, 2026, features an interview with Professor Thomas Nail, a distinguished scholar of philosophy at the University of Denver. Hosted by Marianna Karakoulaki, the episode delves into Nail’s extensive work on the philosophy of movement, exploring concepts like border fluidity, migration patterns, and the evolving technologies used to manage and control borders. The podcast is available on all major platforms, including Spotify here.

The Philosophy of Movement and Border Regimes

Professor Nail’s research centers on understanding how movement – both physical and conceptual – shapes our understanding of political structures and individual identity. His numerous publications, including “The Philosophy of Movement: An Introduction,” “The Figure of the Migrant,” and “Theory of the Border,” offer a critical lens through which to examine contemporary challenges related to migration and border control. The discussion on the podcast highlights the idea that borders are not static lines, but rather dynamic and constantly shifting constructs. This challenges conventional understandings of sovereignty, and territoriality.

The conversation extends to the impact of border technologies – surveillance systems, biometric data collection, and increasingly sophisticated methods of enforcement – on the experiences of migrants. Nail’s work, as discussed in the podcast, suggests these technologies don’t simply secure borders, but actively create them, shaping the highly act of crossing and the lives of those who attempt to do so. He introduces the concept of ‘kinopolitics,’ which examines the political implications of movement itself, and how it relates to the lived realities of individuals navigating these complex border regimes.

Expanding the Conversation: Global Migration Trends

The timing of this podcast episode is particularly relevant given the ongoing global migration crises and the increasing politicization of borders worldwide. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the number of forcibly displaced people globally reached over 114 million by the finish of 2023 (UNHCR, 2024), driven by conflict, persecution, and climate change. This surge in displacement has put immense pressure on border infrastructure and sparked debates about humanitarian obligations versus national security concerns.

Nail’s philosophical framework offers a way to move beyond simplistic narratives of “illegal” immigration and consider the underlying forces that compel people to migrate. His work encourages a deeper understanding of the structural inequalities and power dynamics that shape migration patterns. The podcast’s focus on the fluidity of borders also resonates with ongoing debates about the effectiveness of traditional border control measures in an increasingly interconnected world.

Kinopolitics and the Lived Experience of Migration

The concept of kinopolitics, central to Nail’s work, provides a unique perspective on the political dimensions of movement. It suggests that movement isn’t simply a physical act, but a fundamental force that shapes social and political relations. This represents particularly evident in the context of migration, where the act of crossing a border can transform an individual’s legal status, social identity, and political rights.

As Nail argues, borders are not merely geographical lines, but also sites of power and control. The podcast discussion likely explores how these power dynamics manifest in the everyday lives of migrants, from the challenges of navigating bureaucratic processes to the risks of facing discrimination and violence. Understanding kinopolitics, is crucial for developing more just and equitable migration policies.

The University of Denver and Contemporary Political Thought

Professor Nail’s affiliation with the University of Denver places his work within a broader context of contemporary political thought. The university’s Department of Philosophy is known for its engagement with critical social and political issues, and Nail’s research aligns with a growing body of scholarship that challenges traditional understandings of sovereignty, citizenship, and human rights. His work builds upon the legacies of thinkers like Michel Foucault and Gilles Deleuze, who explored the relationship between power, knowledge, and social control.

What Remains Unclear and What to Expect Next

While the podcast provides valuable insights into Nail’s philosophical framework, the practical implications of his ideas for policy-making remain somewhat open-ended. The conversation likely doesn’t offer concrete solutions to the complex challenges of migration and border control, but rather encourages a fundamental rethinking of the underlying assumptions that shape these debates.

Further engagement with Nail’s work, including his published books and articles, is necessary to fully grasp the nuances of his arguments. E-International Relations, the platform hosting the podcast, also offers a wealth of additional resources on related topics, including articles on border security, migration policy, and human rights. Listeners interested in continuing the conversation are encouraged to submit their thoughts and questions to the podcast’s email address for potential inclusion in future episodes. The podcast’s continued exploration of these critical issues promises to contribute to a more informed and nuanced understanding of the challenges facing a world on the move.