Social Sustainability and the Humanities

Social theory

In this theme the CfH develops projects that focus on interdisciplinary analyses of developments in social theory. These developments are theorised and empirically researched in conjunction with the Humanities, art and culture and their relationship to the current political, economic and technological changes.

Social relevance

European politics, social and intellectual movements, technological mediation, post-socialist and postcolonial developments are in focus on an international as well as local level.

The theme is an on-going discussion of the Humanities with the aim of increasing their social relevance. Issues of post-secular societies, especially in relation to Islam are also central as are current developments in social theories of subjectivity. It is within the framework of this research theme that the CfH presents the Edward Saïd Memorial Conference which is taking place in April 2013 as part of the CfH’s alliance with the Treaty of Utrecht.

Social responsibility

The theme is also the home of The Utrecht School of Critical Theory which enables an international student body the opportunity to study and discuss the concepts and politics of cosmopolitanism, cultural diversity, peace and conflict resolutions, and social responsibilities.

Projects and activities

The theme of 'Social Sustainability and the Humanities' is home to lecture series and projects such as:

• The Utrecht School of Critical Theory
• Humanities Lab on key issues in contemporary Social Theory
• 'Cosmopolitanism' lecture series
• 'Concerning the Post-secular' lecture series
• Peace, Conflicts and the End of Human Rights?
• 'The Philosophy of Gilles Deleuze' seminar
• The European Forum
• Postcolonial Studies Initiative