Lecture Series on Social-Ecological Transformation - 2024 Edition

From ‘too little, too late’ to a climate policy backlash? The conflict field of socialecological transformation

Bernd Sommer, Professor of Environmental Sociology with a focus on transformation research at the Faculty of Social Sciences at TU Dortmund University

With the Paris Agreement in 2015, international steps were taken to limit anthropogenic climate change. In the following years, climate mitigation programs and corresponding laws were enacted at various levels – from the EU to local municipalities. Although climate activists continued to criticize the ambition of many measures, the direction seemed right. Recently, however, climate protection has faced setbacks due to the rise of right-wing populist parties and diverse protests. This lecture analyzes the conflict field of social-ecological transformation, focusing on arenas like energy supply, mobility, and nutrition. Central to these are socio-economic distribution conflicts, disputes over lifestyle issues, and spatial conflicts. The lecture concludes with a social science perspective on these conflicts and their role for societal change.

Crisis and eco-social transformation: a critical perspective from everyday life

Alice Dal Gobbo, Assistant Professor at the Department of Sociology and Social Research at the University of Trento

Interest in everyday practices and initiatives for eco-social transformation is surging. Despite critiques of the individualized and privatized approaches typical of neoliberal governance, recent studies highlight the importance of coming to grips with this elusive and yet foundational sphere. Research has focused, for instance, on prefigurative and new-materialist movements, as well as everyday practices and assemblages. This literature underscores the importance of concretizing new forms of socio-ecological relations alongside more contentious forms of politics. However, in assessing the transformative potential of daily practices, issues of justice must be considered: Who defines the sustainability agenda? Who is most visible? Who bears the burden of care and transformation?

Knowledge production in times of crises: transdisciplinary research approaches for socio-ecological transformations

Marianne Penker, Professor of Rural Sociology and Rural Development at BOKU University

In the midst of multiple crises, this presentation delves into the theme of knowledge production and integration for socio-ecological transformations. It scrutinizes the challenges arising from incomplete and disputed knowledge, compounded by the urgency to act in a context where trust in science is low. Examples from transdisciplinary research projects will shed light on practical approaches for the co-production and integration of knowledge. The argument presented emphasizes the significance of scientific debates in addressing various gaps within literature on transdisciplinarity. As trust in science is key - particularly in times of crises, the presentation emphasizes the importance of navigating these challenges with robust research approaches that contribute meaningfully to both scientific and societal problems.

Visual and creative methods for transformative science: possibilities, challenges, and ethical dilemmas

Angela Moriggi Marie Curie Individual Fellow at the Dept. of Land, Environment,Agriculture & Forestry, University of Padua

Visual and creative methods are increasingly recognized as essential tools for driving both knowledge innovation and socio-ecological change within transdisciplinary and transformative science. This talk explores the potentials, challenges, and ethical dimensions of the use of these methods, drawing from Dr. Moriggi’s recent research and educational experiences. By sharing practical insights and fostering critical reflection, the presentation will address key issues such as assessment, reflexivity, relational and systemic knowledge, and the evolving role of researchers.