HGGS - Us and Them

HGGS

In the podcast series “Us and Them,” Heidelberg University’s Graduate School for the Humanities and Social Sciences (HGGS) explores how divisions between groups emerge and shape societies across cultural, political, and historical contexts. Drawing on their research, professors, doctoral researchers, and experts discuss how boundaries are formed, identities constructed, and power negotiated across disciplines, from history and literature to sociology, philosophy, law, economics and beyond. Tune in as we discuss how this theme resonates in diverse cultural, political, and theoretical contexts.

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October 12 · 52 min
Civil Society and NGOs: Stabilizers or Challengers of the Multilateral Order? – Interview with Associate Professor Dr. Dorota Heidrich, Habil. (University of Warsaw)
Associate Professor Dr. Dorota Heidrich, Habil. (Faculty of Political Science and International Studies, University of Warsaw) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - How have civil society organizations and NGOs shaped the development of the multilateral order and international law? - Why is the independence of civil society organizations essential for holding governments and businesses accountable? - How can international institutions create meaningful opportunities for civil society to participate in global decision-making? In this episode, Associate Professor Dr. Dorota Heidrich, Habil. from the Faculty of Political Science and International Studies at the University of Warsaw, who is also one of the contributing professors to the 4EU+ Alliance’s "META United Nations Summer School: The Resilience of Multilateralism in Times of Uncertainty", explores the complex role of civil society organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the multilateral order. Drawing on her research in international relations and international organizations, including international non-governmental organizations, she examines how organizations that lack formal international legal personality can nevertheless influence global governance, shape international norms, and challenge the actions of states and other powerful actors. The conversation begins by examining the diverse landscape of civil society, from humanitarian and human rights organizations to think tanks, professional associations, and transnational social movements. Dr. Heidrich explains why these organizations are difficult to define and regulate internationally, highlighting the tensions between their independence, their political agendas, and their relationship with governments. The episode then traces the historical development of civil society and its contributions to international cooperation. From early anti-slavery movements and humanitarian initiatives to the establishment of the United Nations, NGOs have helped advance human rights, influence international treaties, and promote environmental protection. Dr. Heidrich also reflects on the expansion of civil society following the Cold War and the continuing inequalities between organizations from different parts of the world. The discussion also explores how NGOs can scrutinize governments and businesses and where the boundaries of legitimate resistance lie. Dr. Heidrich emphasizes that independent civil society is essential to democracy and the rule of law, while also underlining the importance of appropriate oversight and transparency. Turning to the future of multilateralism, Professor Heidrich considers how international institutions can facilitate more effective civil society participation. She highlights the importance of clear rules, genuine political commitment, and practical support for smaller organizations with limited resources. Finally, the conversation explores research opportunities in this field, including how civil society actors contribute to the emergence and contestation of international norms. Join us as we explore why civil society remains an essential yet contested force in global governance, and what its future means for the resilience of the multilateral order! Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Academic Background Research Interests (02:47) Research Interests; Understanding Civil Society and NGOs (08:54) Types of Civil Society Organizations (12:37) The Historical Influence of Civil Society (30:03) Resistance, Protest, and Its Limits (37:51) Civil Society Participation in International Decision Making (44:40) Researching Civil Society (49:05) The Meta United Nations Outreach Project and Summer School (52:02) Outro Keywords Civil Society, Non-Governmental Organizations, NGOs, Multilateralism, Global Governance, International Relations, International Law, United Nations, Human Rights, Civil Resistance, Social Movements, Global Institutions, Civil Society Participation
September 28 · 49 min
Consumer Acceptance and Consumer Preferences of Emerging Agrifood Technologies – Interview with Associate Prof. Dr. Marija Banovic (Aarhus University)
Associate Prof. Dr. Marija Banovic (Department of Management, Aarhus University) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - What determines whether consumers accept and adopt emerging agrifood technologies? - How do familiarity, taste, price, culture, health, sustainability, and perceived risks shape our food choices? - How can technological innovation, consumer preferences, and sustainability be brought together to transform food systems? In this episode, Associate Prof. Dr. Marija Banovic from the Department of Management at Aarhus University discusses the complex relationship between technological innovation and consumer acceptance. Drawing on her research in consumer behavior, food innovation, and sustainability, she explains why consumer acceptance should not be treated as the final step of food innovation, but should instead be considered from the very beginning of the product development process. The conversation explores the complexity of food choices and the many factors that shape consumer decisions, from familiarity, taste, and price to cultural background, personal values, health, sustainability, and perceptions of safety. The discussion also examines the distinction between consumer acceptance and adoption, and why a technically successful product may nevertheless struggle to become part of everyday life. Dr. Banovic further discusses emerging technologies such as precision fermentation and alternative proteins, highlighting the importance of familiarity and meaningful benefits when introducing unfamiliar foods. The conversation considers differences across cultures and markets, as well as how the characteristics of particular products can influence consumer responses. The episode also turns to the circular blue-green bioeconomy and the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to transforming food systems. While circularity can create opportunities to reduce waste and make better use of biological resources, the discussion emphasizes that circularity does not automatically mean sustainability. Finally, we discuss policy, consumer information, labeling, and research methodologies. Rather than simply seeking to make consumers more accepting, Dr. Banovic argues for creating conditions in which consumers can make informed choices among safe, credible, and genuinely sustainable alternatives. Join us as we explore what it takes to move emerging agrifood technologies from laboratories and innovation processes into everyday food practices and why understanding consumers is essential for creating meaningful and sustainable change! Academic Website of Associate Prof. Dr. Marija Banovic: https://www.au.dk/en/maba@mgmt.au.dk/ Website of the Centre for Sustainable Agrifood Systems (START): https://start.uni.dk/ Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Academic Background and Research Interests (03:59) Why Consumer Acceptance Matters? (06:42) From Technological Innovation to Market Uptake (08:46) Understanding Consumer Behavior (10:48) Emerging Agrifood Technologies (13:47) Consumer Concerns and the Role of Familiarity (17:07) Consumer Acceptance Across Cultures and Markets (20:37) The Circular Blue-Green Bioeconomy (24:35) Environmental Trade-offs and System-Level Thinking (27:12) Policy and Consumer Acceptance (30:41) Consumer Information and Product Labeling (34:22) Research Methods for Understanding Consumer Behavior (38:31) From Laboratory Experiments to Real-World Consumer Decisions (41:11) Interdisciplinary Education and the START Summer School (46:30) Future Projects and Research (48:43) Outro Keywords Consumer Acceptance, Consumer Preferences, Agrifood Technologies, Food Innovation, Consumer Behavior, Food Marketing, Sustainability, Sustainable Food Systems, Precision Fermentation, Alternative Proteins, Novel Foods, Biotechnology, Circular Bioeconomy, Blue-Green Bioeconomy, Consumer Psychology, Food Choice, Food Sustainability, Interdisciplinary Research, Food Policy, Consumer Information, Product Labeling
September 14 · 1 hr 3 min
Relating to Others: A (Neo)Platonic Metaphysical Approach – Interview with PD Dr. Max Rohstock and Anna Maria Lambertz-Rohstock (Heidelberg University)
PD Dr. Max Rohstock and Anna Maria Lambertz-Rohstock (Department of Philosophy, Heidelberg University) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) • How can we cultivate an ideal relationship with ourselves and with others? • What can Neoplatonic philosophy teach us about truth, freedom, inner harmony, and human flourishing? • How can philosophical thinking help us navigate existential despair? In this episode, we explore how philosophical traditions can illuminate our relationships with ourselves and others. PD Dr. Max Rohstock and Anna Maria Lambertz-Rohstock from the Department of Philosophy at Heidelberg University discuss the Neoplatonic tradition, its conception of the absolute, and the idea that philosophical insight can transform how we relate to ourselves and others. The conversation examines the Platonic understanding of the self as composed of different forms of striving and the importance of bringing them into harmony through truth and wisdom. Our guests explain how absolutizing finite goals such as wealth, power, or recognition can contribute to dissatisfaction and existential despair. They further discuss the concept of absolutizing and the philosophical challenge of relating appropriately to both absolute and relative goals. The episode also explores negative theology as a method for questioning the ideas and values we treat as absolute. In this context, philosophical thinking is presented as a form of practice that can cultivate self-knowledge, humility, freedom, and resistance to manipulation. The discussion considers how an ideal relationship with oneself may provide the foundation for relating to others with greater openness, empathy, and freedom. Finally, we discuss the initiative “Inspiration Philosophie”, which seeks to make philosophical thinking accessible beyond academia. Join us as we explore whether philosophy can offer not only ways of understanding reality, but also practical guidance for becoming oneself and relating more meaningfully to others! Inspiration Philosophie Philosophy classes: https://linktr.ee/_inspiration_philosophie_ Newsletter: https://substack.com/@inspirationphilosophy Research: https://maxrohstock.academia.edu/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_inspiration_philosophie_ Timeline (00:00) Intro (02:34) Academic Backgrounds (07:26) Motivation and the Archimedean Point (13:40) Neoplatonism and the Absolute (22:05) The Ideal Relationship with Oneself (29:34) From Self-Relation to Relations with Others (32:42) Kierkegaard and Absolutizing (38:07) Negative Theology (42:49) The Historical-Systematic Method (45:33) Philosophy as a Way of Life (50:44) Inspiration Philosophie (55:40) Learning from Public Engagement (58:49) Future Projects and Plans (01:02:37) Outro Keywords Neoplatonism, Plato, Plotinus, Metaphysics, Ethics, Philosophy, Absolute, Inner Harmony, Self-Realization, Existential Despair, Kierkegaard, Negative Theology, Freedom, Human Flourishing, Philosophical Life, Historical-Systematic Method, Public Philosophy, Inspiration Philosophie, Interdisciplinary Scholarship, Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Scholarly Conversations, Interdisciplinary Discussions, Interviews with Scholars, University Discourse, Us and Them, Academic Podcast, Scientific Podcast, Heidelberg University
July 27 · 34 min
Energy Transition: Socio-Spatial Tensions – Interview with Jun.-Prof. Dr. Rosa Lehmann (Heidelberg University)
Jun.-Prof. Dr. Rosa Lehmann (Heidelberg Center for Ibero American Studies, Heidelberg University) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked dimensions of energy transition projects with Jun.-Prof. Dr. Rosa Lehmann, Professor of Innovation and Sustainability in Ibero-America at the Heidelberg Center for Ibero-American Studies (HCIAS), Heidelberg University, where she is also affiliated with the Institute of Geography within the Faculty of Chemistry and Earth Sciences and the Heidelberg Center for the Environment (HCE). In addition, she served as a contributing professor in the 4EU+ Program, Collegio Futuro 2026. Drawing on years of interdisciplinary research, Prof. Lehmann demonstrates that the success of the energy transition depends not only on technological innovation, but also on questions of participation, justice, and governance. Throughout the conversation, Prof. Lehmann explains the concept of socio-spatial tensions, illustrating how renewable energy projects transform not only landscapes but also the relationships between people, institutions, and places. Drawing on case studies from Latin America, she examines recurring patterns of conflict surrounding renewable energy projects, including competing decision-making processes across political scales, the challenges of ensuring meaningful consultation with local communities, and the difficult balance between the urgent need for climate action and democratic participation. The discussion further explores how historical experiences, local identities, and longstanding relationships with particular territories shape the ways communities respond to renewable energy development. The episode also examines what constitutes a just energy transition. Prof. Lehmann discusses how different governance models, including community participation and energy cooperatives, can strengthen public acceptance by fostering a greater sense of ownership and inclusion. In addition, Prof. Lehmann argues that understanding the energy transition requires interdisciplinary collaboration that draws on perspectives from a wide range of disciplines. She concludes by reflecting on the importance of international academic collaboration and discusses how insights gained from Latin American experiences can contribute to ongoing debates on sustainability transitions in Germany and Europe. Join us in this episode as we explore why the energy transition is not only a technological transformation, but also a profoundly social and democratic process that challenges us to rethink questions of justice and participation! For Jun.-Prof. Dr. Rosa Lehmann’s Academic Profile: https://www.hcias.uni-heidelberg.de/en/about-us/people-a-z/rosa-lehmann Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Jun.-Prof. Dr. Rosa Lehmann and Her Academic Background (05:42) The Motivation behind Studying Energy Transition and Socio-Spatial Tensions (08:55) Renewable Energy Case Studies from Latin America (10:00) Recurring Patterns of Conflict (16:13) Degraded and Marginal Land (19:09) Just Energy Transition (21:50) Community Participation and Public Acceptance (24:55) What Makes Energy Transitions Projects in Latin America Different? (26:45) The Importance of Interdisciplinary Research (29:31) International Academic Collaboration (32:52) Current Research Projects and Future Directions (34:12) Outro Keywords Energy Transition, Socio-Spatial Tensions, Sustainability, Just Transition, Renewable Energy, Wind Energy, Solar Energy, Green Hydrogen, Climate Change, Environmental Justice, Political Ecology, Human Geography, Community Participation, Public Acceptance, Energy Cooperatives, Democratic Participation, Local Communities, Latin America, Interdisciplinary Research, Interdisciplinary Scholarship, Scholarly Conversations, Interdisciplinary Discussions, Interviews with Scholars, Academic Podcast, Scientific Podcast, Research Podcast, University Podcast
July 13 · 36 min
Saving Strangers: The 'False Promise' of Responsibility to Protect – Interview with Prof. Dr. Richard Caplan (University of Oxford)
Prof. Dr. Richard Caplan (University of Oxford) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - How has the understanding of state sovereignty and the role of UN peacekeeping operations evolved over time? - What is the "Dilemma of Humanitarian Intervention" and how did it pave the way for the development of the Responsibility to Protect doctrine? - What are the most pressing challenges currently facing UN peacekeeping, and how can they be overcome? In this episode, we explore the complex and evolving landscape of international conflict management and UN peacekeeping, together with Prof. Dr. Richard Caplan, Professor of International Relations at the University of Oxford, who also delivered the keynote lecture at the HGGS Summer Forum 2025, "Us and Them." Prof. Caplan discusses the historical evolution of humanitarian intervention and raises critical questions about whether the international community’s framework for protecting vulnerable populations has truly lived up to its potential. Prof. Caplan traces the historical origins of humanitarian intervention, explaining how the UN Charter originally prohibited interference in the domestic affairs of sovereign states. He outlines how the 1992 crisis in Somalia marked a historic turning point, establishing a precedent in which the UN Security Council authorized the use of military force primarily for humanitarian purposes. Moving through subsequent catastrophic events, the discussion highlights the profound "dilemma of humanitarian intervention" articulated by former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan. Prof. Caplan explains how this dilemma ultimately culminated in the global adoption of the Responsibility to Protect norm. The conversation also examines the structural challenges currently facing the United Nations, particularly the geopolitical interests of the Permanent Five members and the use of the veto power, which frequently prevents the organization fromresponding effectively to major crises. The discussion further explores the future of international peacekeeping in an increasingly fragile global environment characterized by rising nationalism, a retreat from multilateralism, and declining cooperation among the major powers. Prof. Caplan reflects on whether greater reliance on regional organizations could offer a way forward. He weighs the advantages of these organizations, including their long-term regional commitment, against significant challenges, such as limited resources and the risk of advancing localized political interests. Join us in this episode as we examine public policy, international law, and the ultimate future of global peacekeeping in an increasingly divided world! Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Prof. Dr. Richard Caplan and His Academic Background (03:22) Working at the Interface of Public Policy and Scholarship (06:03) Historic Turning Point for UN Peacekeeping (11:55) Historical Shift in the Understanding of State Sovereignty (13:40) Kofi Annan’s "Dilemma of Humanitarian Intervention" (18:18) Geopolitics, Unseen Atrocities, and the Structural Limitations of the UN Veto (24:55) Geopolitical Shifts: Rising Nationalism, and the Value of Peacekeeping (29:45) Reimagining Peacekeeping: Can We Rely on Regional and Sub-Regional Organizations? (34:44) Personal Reflections: Oxford and Heidelberg (35:48) Outro Keywords Responsibility to Protect, R2P, United Nations, UN Peacekeeping, International Relations, Conflict Management, Humanitarian Intervention, State Sovereignty, Somalia Intervention, Kofi Annan, Intervention Dilemma, UN Security Council, Veto Power, Mass Atrocities, Regional Organizations, Multilateralism, Geopolitics, University of Oxford, Academic Podcast. Note: This episode is a republished and revised version of one of our previous episodes, with adjustments made to enhance the sound quality and improve the overall flow of the conversation. Thank you very much for your understanding and continued support.
June 29 · 33 min
AI Literacy: Bridging the Gap Between “Us and Them” in the Digital Age – Interview with Alberto Carballo Soca (University of Havana)
Alberto Carballo Soca (University of Havana) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - How do group dynamics, social identity, and educational inclusion shape our understanding of the “Us and Them” divide? - How do global inequalities influence access to and research on artificial intelligence? - What can policymakers and educators do to promote a more inclusive digital future? In this episode, we explore the intersections of educational psychology, digital education, and artificial intelligence literacy together with Alberto Carballo Soca from the Faculty of Psychology at the University of Havana, who was also one of the presenters at the HGGS Summer Forum 2025, “Us and Them.” Alberto Carballo Soca discusses how the dynamics of inclusion and exclusion that emerge in school groups can help us understand broader social divisions in the digital age and the growing importance of AI literacy in contemporary societies. Throughout the episode, we explore how social identities are formed within educational settings and how factors such as skin color,, academic achievement, and personal interests can influence acceptance, rejection, and belonging within groups. Building on these foundations, the discussion turns to the role of education in fostering inclusion and developing the social competencies necessary for participation and cooperation. Alberto Carballo Soca reflects on the importanceof teamwork, empathy, and belonging, arguing that schools play a crucial role in preparing individuals not only for professional life but also for active citizenship in societies. A central focus of the episode is AI literacy, a rapidly emerging field that seeks to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and critical awareness necessary to engage responsibly with artificial intelligence technologies. Drawing on his bibliometric research, Alberto Carballo Soca discusses how most AI literacy research is currently concentrated in the Global North, creating significant disparities between the Global North, the Global South, and the “Global Desert.” Finally, the discussion turns to the future of AI literacy and digital education. Alberto Carballo Soca argues that education remains the most important tool for reducing digital inequalities and ensuring that individuals can engage with AI technologies in informed, critical, and responsible ways. Join us in this episode as we explore how educational psychology, digital education, and AI literacy can help bridge the divide between “us” and “them” and contribute to a more inclusive digital future! Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Alberto Carballo Soca and His Academic Background (02:51) From Group Dynamics to AI Literacy: Research Motivation and Academic Journey (07:26) Research Methods for Studying Group Dynamics in Schools (09:18) Individual and Collective Perspectives on Inclusion and Cooperation (12:43) Belonging, Motivation, and Participation in Group Activities (14:52) The Shift Towards Digital Education (20:37) Recommendations for Overcoming Challenges in Digital Education (22:45) Attitudes, Knowledge, and Skills for Using Artificial Intelligence (26:17) The Global North, the Global South, and the Global Desert in AI Literacy (29:34) Policy Recommendations for Improving AI Literacy (31:24) Personal Reflections: Running, Creativity, and Academic Life (32:57) Outro Keywords AI Literacy, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Education, Educational Psychology, Group Cohesion, Social Identity Theory, Educational Inclusion, Digital Competence, Large Language Models, Global North, Global South, Global Desert, Educational Policy, Interdisciplinary Research, Bibliometric Analysis, Digital Inequality Note: This episode is a republished and revised version of one of our previous episodes, with adjustments made to enhance the sound quality and improve the overall flow of the conversation. Thank you very much for your understanding and continued support.
June 15 · 52 min
The Girih Mode in Context, Experience, and Practice: Toward a Cognitive Ecology of Islamic Ornament in Contemporary Architectural Design – Interview with Bahar Akgün (Heidelberg University)
Bahar Akgün (Heidelberg University) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - What is the girih mode, and how has it been interpreted? - How can cognitive science and eye-tracking methods help us understand the experience of Islamic geometric ornament? - What are the promises and challenges of conducting interdisciplinary research? In this episode, we explore how ornaments shape the ways we perceive, navigate, and experience visual environments together with Bahar Akgün from the Islamic Studies Department within the Faculty of Philosophy at Heidelberg University, who was also one of the presenters at the HGGS Summer Forum 2025, “Us and Them.” Her interdisciplinary research examines the girih mode of Islamic geometric ornament through the lenses of Islamic studies, art history, phenomenology, cognitive science, and contemporary architectural design, investigating how geometric patterns can influence perception, contemplation, and embodied experience. The conversation introduces listeners to the girih mode as a distinctive visual language characterized by interlaced geometric structures, star patterns, and endlessly extendable networks that have shaped the aesthetics of Islamic architecture across centuries. Bahar Akgün explains how current architectural debates increasingly approach ornament not only as a symbolic form, but also as a medium that produces affect, visual resonance, and embodied sensory experience. A central focus of the episode is Bahar Akgün’s innovative methodological framework, which combines phenomenological introspection, empirical aesthetics, and eye-tracking studies to investigate the “contemplative gaze” associated with girih patterns. We discuss how visual complexity guides perception, how patterns can embed their own “mode of seeing,” and how empirical methods can help bridge historical aesthetic theory with contemporary cognitive research. The conversation also reflects extensively on the realities of interdisciplinary scholarship. Bahar Akgün shares her experience of navigating multiple academic languages and epistemologies, and conducting research at the intersection of traditionally separate fields. Together, we explore the institutional challenges, and emotional dimensions of interdisciplinary research, and the importance of collaboration, systems thinking, and epistemological pluralism. Join us in this episode as we explore how Islamic geometric ornament reshapes our understanding of perception, aesthetics, architecture, and interdisciplinary research! For Bahar Akgün’s Academic Profile: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Bahar-Akguen-2 For Bahar Akgün´s HGGS Page: https://www.hggs.uni-heidelberg.de/en/about-us/members/bahar-akgun Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Bahar Akgün and Her Academic Background (02:54) Motivation Behind the Research (05:10) The Modernist Suppression of Ornament and Its Contemporary Re-Emergence (08:45) Visual Resonance and Representation in Ornament (12:22) Defining Characteristics of Islamic Geometric Ornament and the Girih Mode (13:53) Interpretations of Islamic Ornament (19:34) Visualizing the Girih Mode (22:52) Developing a Methodological Framework for Analyzing the Girih Mode (26:42) Interdisciplinary Dimensions of the Research (30:16) Working with Supervisors from Different Academic Backgrounds (36:00) Challenges and Rewards of Conducting Interdisciplinary Research (41:28) Collaboration, Systems Thinking, and Different Forms of Interdisciplinary Research (47:38) Future Academic Plans (51:21) Outro Keywords Girih Mode, Islamic Ornament, Islamic Art, Islamic Studies, Architecture, Architectural Design, Computational Design, Cognitive Science, Phenomenology, Aesthetics, Eye-Tracking Research, Visual Perception, Contemplative Gaze, Aesthetics, Art History, Interdisciplinary Research, Systems Thinking, Islamic Architecture, Geometric Patterns, Methodology, Academic Podcast, Scientific Podcast, Scholarly Conversations
June 1 · 50 min
Sustainability and Sustainable Innovation Management – Interview with Dr. Maximilian Jungmann (Heidelberg Center for the Environment, Heidelberg University)
Dr. Maximilian Jungmann (Heidelberg Center for the Environment, Heidelberg University) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - What roles do companies, governments, and individuals play in creating a more sustainable future? - What distinguishes sustainable innovation from traditional innovation, and why is management crucial to its success? - How can companies balance economic profitability with social and environmental impact? In this episode, we explore the concepts of sustainability and sustainable innovation management together with Dr. Maximilian Jungmann, Executive Manager of the Heidelberg Center for the Environment (HCE) at Heidelberg University. Drawing on his interdisciplinary background in political science, sociology, climate change adaptation, and sustainability consulting, Dr. Jungmann reflects on the urgent need to bridge academic knowledge, business practice, and societal transformation in addressing contemporary environmental challenges. Throughout the episode, Dr. Jungmann explains how sustainability requires long-term thinking that takes future generations, resource limitations, and global interdependencies into account, while also emphasizing the importance of resilience, sufficiency, efficiency, and consistency within organizational and societal structures. The episode explores how sustainable innovation differs from conventional innovation approaches by integrating environmental and social responsibility into both the goals and processes of innovation. Dr. Jungmann further elaborates on different forms of innovation, illustrating how technological and organizational change can contribute to more sustainable economic systems. The conversation also examines the role of sustainable business models and the growing importance of ESG frameworks, regulation, and sustainable entrepreneurship. We discuss the opportunities and challenges associated with the European Green Deal, the role of regulation in shaping innovation, and the tensions between long-term sustainability goals and short-term economic interests. In this context, Dr. Jungmann reflects on how businesses can combine profitability with societal impact and why organizational culture and leadership play a decisive role in successful sustainability transformation processes. Join us in this episode as we explore how sustainability, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration can contribute to addressing some of the most pressing environmental and societal challenges of our time! HCE Website: https://www.hce.uni-heidelberg.de Dr. Jungmann’s Profile: ⁠https://www.mnovum.com/dr-max-jungmann⁠ Website of Momentum Novum: https://www.mnovum.com/ Website of Falk Momentum: https://www.falk-momentum.com/%C3%BCber-uns Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Dr. Jungmann (03:56) Research on Sustainability and Sustainable Innovation Management (08:16) What Does Sustainability Mean? (11:20) The Need for Transformation toward a Sustainable Future (13:57) Current Level of Progress in Sustainability (17:33) Regulation, Innovation, and the EU Green Deal (24:03) Sustainable Innovation Management (26:32) Forms of Sustainable Innovation (29:47) Sustainable Business Models (32:29) Competitive Advantages of Sustainable Business Models (34:56) Sufficiency-Driven Business Models (36:37) Organizational Culture and Sustainability Transformation (39:40) Sustainable Startups(44:47) International Climate Cooperation (47:12) The Mission of the HCE (49:32) Outro Keywords Sustainability, Sustainable Innovation Management, ESG Compliance, Sustainable Business Models, Innovation, Innovation Management, Sustainable Entrepreneurship, Green Deal, Climate Change, Sustainable Startups, Sustainability Consulting, Climate Policy, Sustainability Reporting, Corporate Responsibility, Interdisciplinary Research, Environmental Studies, Political Science, Heidelberg Center for the Environment, Heidelberg University, Academic Podcast, Scientific Podcast
May 18 · 24 min
Magical Urbanism: Thresholds, Hybridity, and the Transformative Power of "Us and Them" in Woolf, Lispector, and Lahiri – Interview with Tetyana Kasima (University of Tartu)
Tetyana Kasima (University of Tartu) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - How do literature and urban spaces shape one another? - What are “heterotopic moments of being,” and how can they help us understand city life? - How do literary texts reimagine questions of identity, visibility, and coexistence in urban environments? As human beings, we are all embedded in time and space, but how does the space we inhabit shape our perspectives and experiences? In this episode, we explore this question through the lens of literary urban studies together with Tetyana Kasima from the University of Tartu, who was also one of the presenters at the HGGS Summer Forum 2025, “Us and Them.” Drawing on her research into Clarice Lispector’s The Besieged City, Virginia Woolf’s Solid Objects, and the works of Jhumpa Lahiri, Tetyana Kasima introduces the concept of “magical urbanism” and examines how literature reflects and reimagines urban life. Combining Michel Foucault’s notion of “heterotopias” with Virginia Woolf’s idea of “moments of being,” she develops the interdisciplinary framework of “heterotopic moments of being” to investigate the relationship between urban environments and human experience in literary texts. Throughout the conversation, we discuss how cities are shaped by contradictions, hybridity, and coexistence, and how literature allows us to pause and reflect on the spaces we inhabit in everyday life. The episode further explores questions of visibility and anonymity in the city, the role of urban porosity, and the ways in which diverse identities and cultures merge within shared urban environments. In addition, Tetyana Kasima reflects on the methodological challenges of combining literary analysis with other artistic mediums, such as painting, through her discussion of Giorgio de Chirico’s artwork and its connection to Clarice Lispector’s fiction. The discussion also touches upon the emotional and experiential dimensions of city life, examining how walking, memory, architecture, and storytelling contribute to our understanding of urban spaces. From Vienna and Paris to fictional cityscapes in literature, the episode highlights how cities can become spaces of imagination, transformation, and interdisciplinary reflection. Join us in this episode as we explore how literature reshapes our understanding of the cities we live in and reveals the hidden layers of urban experience! Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Tetyana Kasima and Her Academic Background (01:48) Literary Urban Studies and the Motivation Behind the Research (03:50) Heterotopic Moments of Being: Foucault and Virginia Woolf (06:41) Moments of Being and Non-Being in Literary Urbanism (08:26) What Is a City? Perspective and Urban Experience (10:53) Magical Urbanism, Contradictions, and “Us and Them” (15:08) Visibility and Anonymity in a City (16:54) Combining Literature and Visual Art in Research (20:23) Personal Reflection: Magical Cities and Urban Experiences (21:45) Experiencing Cities Through the Eyes of a Researcher (23:44) Outro Keywords Literary Urban Studies, Magical Urbanism, Urban Studies, Comparative Literature, Michel Foucault, Heterotopia, Heterotopic Moments of Being, Virginia Woolf, Clarice Lispector, Jhumpa Lahiri, Giorgio de Chirico, Urban Porosity, City Life, Urban Experience, Literature and Space, Interdisciplinary Research, Cultural Studies, Identity Politics, Hybrid Cultures, Visibility and Anonymity, Walking in the City, Flâneur, Literary Theory, Philosophy and Literature, Urban Culture, Interdisciplinary Discussions, Interviews with Scholars, Academic Podcast, Scientific Podcast, HGGS, Heidelberg University, University of Tartu Note: This episode is a republished and revised version of one of our previous episodes, with adjustments made to enhance the sound quality and improve the overall flow of the conversation. Thank you very much for your understanding and continued support.
May 4 · 48 min
The Limits of Understanding: Towards an Implementable Model of Inter-Paradigmatic Communication – Interview with Antoni Lukasik (Warsaw University)
Antoni Lukasik (Warsaw University) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - What are the limits of understanding within the framework of language in political contexts? - How does Ludwig Wittgenstein’s philosophy reshape our understanding of language and communication? - Can interdisciplinary and empirical approaches improve political communication, particularly in climate policy? In this episode, Antoni Łukasik, researcher from the Department of Philosophy at Warsaw University and participant in the 4EU+ Program Collegio Futuro 2026, takes us on an interdisciplinary journey through the complex relationship between language, understanding, and political communication. Starting from the idea, famously expressed by Antoine deSaint-Exupéry, that “language is a source of misunderstanding,” the conversation explores how linguistic structures shape not only communication but also perception and public discourse. Drawing on the philosophy of Ludwig Wittgenstein, Antoni Łukasik introduces a shift from viewing language as a mirror of reality to understanding it as a tool for interaction, emphasizing how meaning emerges through use, context, and social exchange. Building on this philosophical foundation, the episode examines the limitations of classical models of political deliberation, highlighting empirical findings that challenge the assumption that rational argument alone leads to consensus. Instead, the discussion turns to holistic and discursive processes that shape public opinion. The discussion further explores the concept of vernacularization and highlights a striking reverse dynamic example in which indigenous knowledge systems in Ecuador have influenced formal political and legal structures from the bottom up. By combining philosophical inquiry with empirical methods such as qualitative fieldwork, this episode sheds light on the challenges of communicating across paradigms, cultures, and disciplines. It also raises fundamental questions about whether universal models of communication are possible or whether we must instead embrace plurality, uncertainty, and contextual understanding. Join us as we explore the boundaries of language, the challenges of political communication, and the possibilities of interdisciplinary approaches for fostering clearer dialogue in an increasingly complex world! Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Antoni Łukasik and His Academic Background (05:53) Ludwig Wittgenstein and the Philosophy of Language (17:03) Communication Models and Discursive Processes (22:54) Research Design and Case Selection: Climate Policy and Competing Worldviews (28:32) Vernacularization and Knowledge Transfer (31:05) Fieldwork Reflections and Methodological Challenges (34:31) Scientific Methodology (38:58) Hypotheses, Falsification, and Scientific Inquiry (42:39) Personal Reflection: Interdisciplinary Research and Collegio Futuro (45:18) Personal Reflection: Future Research Plans (47:36) Outro Keywords Language, Political Communication, Climate Policy, Philosophy, Philosophy of Language, Empirical Philosophy, Environmental Philosophy, Philosophy of Science, Ecuador, Public Discourse, Ludwig Wittgenstein, Karl Popper, Thomas Kuhn, Understanding, Social Representation, Empirical Methods, Vernacularization, Qualitative Fieldwork, Critical Discourse Analysis, Contextual Analysis, Interdisciplinary Research, Interdisciplinary Scholarship, Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Scholarly Conversations, Interdisciplinary Discussions, Interviews with Scholars, University Discourse, Academic Podcast, Scientific Podcast, Research Podcast, University Podcast, Heidelberg University, University of Warsaw, Collegio Futuro
April 20 · 58 min
Differences Between First Language and Second Language Acquisition: Psycholinguistics and Cognitive Science Perspectives – Interview with Elizaveta Savina (Heidelberg University)
Elizaveta Savina (Heidelberg University) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - What are the fundamental differences between first and second language acquisition? - How do implicit and explicit learning processes shape language learning outcomes? - What role does structural priming play in second language acquisition? In this episode, Elizaveta Savina, PhD Student from the Heidelberg University Language and Cognition Lab (HULC) at the Institute of German as a Foreign Philology, introduces us to the complex and fascinating dynamics of first and second language acquisition from the perspectives of psycholinguistics and cognitive science. Drawing on her research, Elizaveta Savina explores how cognitive mechanisms operate behind the scenes during language acquisition, emphasizing the roles of implicit and explicit learning processes. Within this framework, she highlights the concept of structural priming as a key mechanism that enables learners to internalize grammatical structures through repeated exposure, thereby facilitating fluency and comprehension. The conversation further sheds light on empirical methods such as eye-tracking in the visual world paradigm, offering insights into how researchers investigate real-time language processing and learning. Join us as we explore the cognitive foundations of language learning, the challenges and opportunities of acquiring a second language, and what these insights reveal about human cognition and communication more broadly! For Elizaveta Savina’s current study: Flyer: https://heibox.uni-heidelberg.de/f/f4b6ed8cb083462986a5/ Appointment Calendar: https://koalendar.com/e/studie-eye-tracking-idf Heidelberg University Language and Cognition Lab (HULC): https://www.hulclab.eu/research/ Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Elizaveta Savina and Her Academic Background (03:01) Motivation Behind the Research Topic Theoretical Implications (05:41) Differences Between First and Second Language Acquisition (08:40) Implicit vs. Explicit Learning (11:28) Implicit Learning in Cognitive Science (12:41) Acquisition vs. Learning (15:19) Structural Priming Explained (18:19) Structural Priming and Predictive Coding Theory (24:54) Learning during Sleep? Methodological Insights in Psycholinguistic Research (27:42) Research Hypotheses (29:21) Sciences of Cognition and Language (32:50) Eye-Tracking and the Visual World Paradigm (35:42) Requirements of Psycholinguistic Research (37:51) Interdisciplinary Perspectives of Cognitive Science at Heidelberg University (40:03) Practical Implications for Researching German Learners (44:16) Challenges of Learning German Grammar (47:08) Structural Priming State of Art and Novelty Personal Perspectives (49:41) Personal Reflections on Language Learning (51:12) Advantages of Early and Late Language Learning (55:26) Further Language Learning Plans (58:15) Outro Keywords Language Learning, Language Acquisition, Psycholinguistics, Cognitive Science, Second Language Acquisition, First Language Acquisition, Language Journey, Structural Priming, Implicit Learning, Explicit Learning, Eye Tracking, Linguistics, HULC, Interdisciplinary Research, Interdisciplinary Scholarship, Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Scholarly Conversations, Interdisciplinary Discussions, Interviews with Scholars, University Discourse, Us and Them, Academic Podcast, Scientific Podcast, Research Podcast, University Podcast, Heidelberg University
April 6 · 30 min
The Elgar Companion to the G7: 50 Years of the G7 – Interview with Prof. Dr. Andreas Freytag (Friedrich Schiller University Jena)
Prof. Dr. Andreas Freytag (Friedrich Schiller University Jena) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - What role does the G7 play within the broader framework of global governance? - How does the informal structure of the G7 shape international cooperation and policy-making? - What challenges does the G7 face in an evolving multipolar world? In this episode, Prof. Dr. Andreas Freytag from the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Chair of Economic Policy at the Friedrich Schiller University Jena guides us through the complex dynamics of global governance and introduces his recent book “The Elgar Companion to the G7: 50 Years of the G7.” Drawing on his long-standing research in international political economy, Prof. Freytag explores the historical development and enduring relevance of the G7 as an informal yet influential platform for international cooperation. He explains how the G7’s unique structure enables open dialogue and flexible coordination among leading economies. At the same time, the conversation addresses key challenges facing the G7 today, including transboundary issues such as climate change and financial crises, shifting global power dynamics and the increasing preference for bilateral over multilateral agreements. The discussion further highlights the G7’s achievements, such as coordinated responses to economic crises and debt relief initiatives, while also reflecting on its evolving role alongside institutions like the G20 and emerging groupings such as BRICS. Looking ahead, Prof. Freytag offers insights into how the G7 can remain relevant by strengthening international cooperation, upholding shared values, and adapting to an increasingly complex global landscape. Join us as we explore how informal diplomacy, economic policy, and international collaboration intersect in shaping global governance today! For Prof. Dr. Andreas Freytag’s Academic Website: https://www.wipo.uni-jena.de/en Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Prof. Dr. Freytag and His Academic Background (02:51) The Field of Political Economy (03:54) Motivation behind the Book “The Elgar Companion to the G7: 50 Years of the G7” (06:04) The Significance of International Collaboration (07:51) The Role of the G7 in Global Governance and Its Informal Structure (11:56) Multilateral vs. Bilateral Trade Agreements (13:35) The Relationship between G7 and Russia (15:50) The Role of the G20 in Global Governance (17:19) The Emergence of BRICS on the Global Stage (19:45) Historical Achievements of the G7 (23:54) Policy Recommendations for the G7 (26:09) Future of the G7 (28:06) Personal Reflection: Future Academic Research Plans (30:12) Outro Keywords G7, Group of Seven, Global Governance, International Relations, Economics, Global Politics, BRICS, Debt Relief, Multilateralism, Bilateralism, Global Diplomacy, Informal Diplomacy, Economic Policy, Political Economy, Policy Making, G20, Global Challenges, Regional Initiatives, Interdisciplinary Research, International Collaboration, Interdisciplinary Scholarship, Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Scholarly Conversations, Interdisciplinary Discussions, Interviews with Scholars, University Discourse, Us and Them, Academic Podcast, Scientific Podcast, Heidelberg University, University Jena
March 23 · 36 min
HIV Prevention in Sub-Saharan Africa – Interview with Dr. Maureen McGowan (Heidelberg University)
Dr. Maureen McGowan (Heidelberg University) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - How can peer referral strategies enhance HIV testing and prevention efforts? - What challenges arise when aligning public health research, policy, and local cultural contexts? - What role does qualitative research play in understanding and addressing both local and global challenges? In this episode, Dr. Maureen McGowan from the Heidelberg Institute of Global Health at Heidelberg University introduces us to the complex and multifaceted challenges of HIV prevention in sub-Saharan Africa. Drawing on her research, Dr. McGowan elaborates on how gender dynamics and structural inequalities shape vulnerability within the context of HIV prevention, particularly among adolescent girls and young women in sub-Saharan Africa. Within this framework, she highlights the significance of innovative strategies such as peer referral, demonstrating how community-based approaches and social support can substantially increase HIV testing and the uptake of prevention methods. At the same time, she reflects on the importance of stakeholder engagement and ethical considerations, as well as the challenges of bridging the gap between research and policy across diverse local contexts. The conversation further underscores the value of qualitative research methods, alongside interdisciplinary and international collaboration, in developing sustainable and culturally sensitive public health interventions. Join us as we explore how HIV prevention efforts reveal broader dynamics of trust and cooperation, and what they teach us about addressing global health challenges! For Dr. Maureen McGowan´s Academic Profile: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Maureen-Mcgowan?ev=hdr_xprf Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Dr. McGowan and Her Academic Background (02:29) Motivation Behind the Research Topic (04:17) Understanding Challenges in HIV Prevention in Sub-Saharan Africa (07:20) Gender Disparities in HIV Exposure (09:25) Peer Referral as a Strategy for HIV Prevention (11:24) Recommendation for Strengthening Peer Referral in HIV Prevention (12:42) The Role of Social Support in HIV Prevention (15:34) Key Stakeholders in HIV Prevention Efforts (17:37) The Importance of a Shared Understanding among Stakeholders (19:08) Bridging the Gap Between Research and Policy (20:45) Ethical Considerations in HIV Research (22:08) The Significance and Challenges of International Collaboration in Public Health (23:52) The Need for Interdisciplinary Approaches in HIV Prevention (26:30) The Role of Qualitative Research Methods in Public Health Research (30:34) Methodological Approaches to Ensuring Reliable Research Outcomes (32:13) Personal Reflection: Cultural Insights from Global Research (34:30) Personal Reflection: Future Directions in HIV Research (35:57) Outro Keywords HIV Prevention, HIV Testing, Sub-Saharan Africa, Global Health, Public Health, Peer Referral, Voluntary Assisted Partner Notification, VAPN, Public Health Policy, Social Support, Interdisciplinary Research, Gender Disparities, Gender Politics, Stakeholder Engagement, Policy Implementation, Cultural Factors, Cultural Dynamics, Cultural Norms, Stigmatisation, Sexual Health Education, Ethical Issues, International Collaboration, Qualitative Research, Interdisciplinary Scholarship, Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Scholarly Conversations, Interdisciplinary Discussions, Interviews with Scholars, University Discourse, Us and Them, Academic Podcast, Scientific Podcast, Heidelberg University
March 9 · 41 min
Us and Them: The Dangers of Juxtaposing Colour-Coded Narrative Worlds – Interview with Dr. Radmila Mladenova (Heidelberg University)
Dr. Radmila Mladenova (Heidelberg University) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - Which stereotypical metanarratives have historically dominated films depicting the Roma community? - How does the contrast between light and darkness function within the visual language of films portraying the Roma community? - How can we critically approach films that depict the Roma community through stereotypical representations? In this episode, we are delighted to welcome Dr. Radmila Mladenova from the Heidelberg Research Centre on Antigypsyism at Heidelberg University, who joins us to discuss the portrayal of Roma community in film and the broader implications of cinematic storytelling. Our conversation explores how stereotypical metanarratives have historically shaped film representations of the Roma community and how cinematic techniques, such as the use of light and darkness, color coding, and narrative structures like the “hero’s journey” contribute to reinforcing social hierarchies and racialized portrayals. Drawing on her research on anti -gypsyism and film analysis, Dr. Mladenova explains how racism can operate through narrative frameworks and visual language, and how such representations have evolved across different historical periods of cinema. The episode also reflects on the importance of interdisciplinary research, critical media literacy, and policy initiatives aimed at fighting against anti-gypsyism and promoting more accurate and responsible portrayals of Roma communities in contemporary media. Join us as we examine how films construct narratives of “Us and Them” and discuss why critically engaging with cinematic representation is essential for fostering intercultural understanding and challenging persistent stereotypes! Critical Film & Image Hub: https://www.fsa.uni-heidelberg.de/en/filmhub Note: Information about Dr. Mladenova’s upcoming digital workshop in October 2026 will be published on this website. Film Criticism Blog: https://www.fsa.uni-heidelberg.de/en/filmhub/filmkritik Dr. Mladenova´s Open-Access Dissertation: https://heiup.uni-heidelberg.de/catalog/book/989 Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Dr. Mladenova and Her Academic Background (04:02) Motivation behind the Research (07:23) Fictional Depictions of the Roma Community in Films and the Concept of 'Gypsy Mask' (09:00) Objective Criteria of Racism: Essentialization, Naturalization, Hierarchization and Polarization (11:33) “Us vs. Them” as a Social Relationship in Films Depicting the Roma Community (13:28) White vs. Black: The Use of Light and Darkness to Depict Hierarchy and Morality in Films (17:42) Stereotypes in Film Representations of the Roma Community (20:06) Commercial Interests behind Racist Stereotypes in Films (22:44) Metanarratives and “Hero's Journey” in Films Depicting Roma Community (24:07) Color Coding and Visual Language in Films (25:42) Changes in Stereotypical Narratives accross Different Eras (30:36) Stereotypes about the Roma Community in Contemporary Cinema (33:00) Importance of Interdisciplinary Approaches (34:01) Policy Recommendations and Efforts to Combat Anti-Gypsyism in Films (35:58) Public Awareness of Stereotypes in Films (38:21) Personal Insights: Future Research Directions and Upcoming Events (40:51) Outro Keywords Roma Community, Film Stereotypes, Anti-Gypsyism, Cinematic Language, Racism in Media, Racism, Film Analysis, Visual Storytelling, Representation, Intercultural Understanding, Film Narratives, Roma and Sinti, Critical Analysis, Color Coding, Hero´s Journey, Visual Language, Movie Analysis, Cinema Analysis, Metanarratives, Interdisciplinary Research, Hierarchical Relationships, Social Relationships, Us and Them, Academic Podcast, Scientific Podcast, Heidelberg University
February 23 · 53 min
Environmental Economics: Circular Economy, Green Innovation and Economic Impacts of Weather Shocks – Interview with Dr. Federico Zilia (University of Milan)
Dr. Federico Zilia (University of Milan) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - What role can the circular economy approach play in addressing current environmental challenges? - How can we distinguish “green innovations” from conventional innovations in the context of increasing concerns about greenwashing? - In what ways do weather shocks affect the economy of a region? In this episode, we are delighted to welcome Dr. Federico Zilia from the Department of Environmental Science and Policy at the University of Milan and a contributing professor in the 4EU+ Program, Collegio Futuro: Interdisciplinary College for Doctoral Students 2026, who guides us through the intersection of economics and environmental policy. Our conversation focuses on the circular economy, green innovation, and the economic impacts of weather shocks. Dr. Zilia elaborates on the role of geographical indications, highlights the importance of sustainability management using the example of sea urchin waste, and discusses the challenges that weather shocks pose to labor markets and export goods. Moreover, the episode underscores the value of interdisciplinary approaches in research and reflects on the responsibility of companies in adopting and advancing sustainable practices. Join us as we explore the dynamic field of environmental economics and examine how it plays a crucial role in addressing some of today’s most pressing environmental challenges! Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Dr. Federico Zilia (02:52) Exploring Environmental Economics (06:11) The Circular Economy: Concept and Applications (12:38) Sea Urchin Waste: A Case Study in the Circular Economy Approach (14:49) Key Lessons for Companies in Adopting Circular Economy Models (17:54) How to Identify Greenwashing? (20:55) Geographical Indications and Intellectual Capital (25:20) Green Innovation and Green Patents (30:27) The Need for a Change in the Understanding of Geographical Indications (33:20) Weather Shocks and Their Effects on Economic Dynamics (35:13) Effects of Climate Change on Labor Reallocation and Export Goods (40:28) Methodological Challenges of Interdisciplinary Research in Environmental Economics (45:21) Collegio Futuro 2026 (48:56) Future Research Directions and Personal Insights (53:01) Outro Keywords Environmental Economics, Circular Economy, Green Innovation, Green Patents, Climate Change, Environment Policy, Environmental Science, Geographical Indications, Sustainability, Labor Market, Labor Reallocation, Weather Shocks, Interdisciplinary Research, Quantitative Research, Economic Methodology, Research Methods, Wine Industry, Wine Export, Economic Outcomes, Sea Urchin Waste, Regulation, Greenwashing, Local Products, Us and Them, Heidelberg University, University of Milan, Scientific Podcast, Academic Podcast.
February 9 · 47 min
Zooming in on Individuals in Post-Apocalyptic Fiction: Emotions and Coping Strategies in Times of Transition – Interview with Selin Beyhan (Heidelberg University)
Selin Beyhan (Heidelberg University) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - What coping strategies do characters in post-apocalyptic novels use to deal with the challenges of post-apocalyptic settings? - What emotions do fictional characters display during periods of transition? - What can we learn from characters in post-apocalyptic narratives? In this episode, we are delighted to welcome Selin Beyhan from the Department of English Studies at Heidelberg University, to discuss her research on post-apocalyptic fiction, with a particular focus on individual emotions and coping strategies during times of transition. Selin reflects on her academic journey and highlights the timely relevance of her work in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has increased readers’ engagement with themes of emotional resilience and adaptation in literature. She further clarifies the distinction between apocalyptic and post-apocalyptic fiction and explains how her research examines contemporary narratives that mirror modern anxieties. Drawing on a range of novels, including Station Eleven, The Dog Stars, The Book of M, The Beginning at the End, The City Where We Once Lived, and Severance, she explores how characters navigate trauma, uncertainty, and transformation. By bringing psychological theories into her literary analysis, Selin seeks to illuminate the complexity of human emotions amid societal upheaval and ultimately aims to deepen our understanding of individual experiences in post-apocalyptic narratives. Join us as we explore the thin line between fiction and non-fiction in post -apocalyptic storytelling! Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Selin Beyhan and Her Research Topic (01:49) The Choice of Research Topic and the Impact of the Pandemic (05:10) Differences Between Apocalyptic Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic Fiction, and Post-Apocalyptic Dystopia (07:33) Contemporary Post-Apocalyptic Fiction (10:00) Contemporary vs. Non-Contemporary Post-Apocalyptic Fiction (15:30) The Concept of “Empathy”: Past Experiences and Similarity (19:09) Focusing on Individual Experiences (21:06) Coping Strategies in Post-Apocalyptic Narratives (24:15) Character Transformation After Trauma (27:24) The Gap Between Us and Them in Post-Apocalyptic Fiction (30:10) Interdisciplinary Approaches in Literary Research: The Application of Psychological Theories (33:30) Challenges of an Interdisciplinary Approach (36:09) Transferring Insights from Post-Apocalyptic Fiction to Real Life (41:12) Personal Reflection: Language Channel on Instagram (Selinguist) (43:22) Personal Reflection: Balancing Academic and Personal Life (46:22) Outro Keywords Post-Apocalyptic Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic Narratives, Coping Strategies, Emotional Resilience, Contemporary Literature, Fiction, Psychological Analysis, Individual Experiences, COVID-19, Literary Studies, Literary Research, English Studies, Empathy, Character Development, Emotions, Coping Strategies, Interdisciplinary Work, Apocalypse, Coping with Change, Transition Times, Modern Anxieties, Station Eleven, The Beginning at the End, The Dog Stars, The City Where We Once Lived, Severance, The Book of M, Us and Them, Heidelberg University, Scientific Podcast, Academic Podcast, HGGS
January 26 · 51 min
Ambivalent Enmity in Bordering Processes – Interview with Dr. Philipp Zehmisch (Heidelberg University)
Dr. Philipp Zehmisch (Heidelberg University) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - How did the partition between India and Pakistan shape the ambivalent enmity between these cultures? - What forms of cultural resilience have developed along the border between India and Pakistan? - How should we approach and make sense of the sensitive issue of “cross-border ethics,” and what key considerations should guide our understanding of it? In this episode, Dr. Philipp Zehmisch from the Department of Anthropology at the South Asia Institute, Heidelberg University, invites us into his research on ambivalent amnesty in bordering processes, with a particular focus on the complex dynamics between India and Pakistan. Drawing on extensive fieldwork in the Andaman Islands and in Pakistan, Dr. Zehmisch explores how questions of migration, identity, and the long shadow of partition shape everyday lives. He highlights the importance of cultural production and cross-border collaboration in fostering understanding and resilience among communities on both sides of the border. At the same time, he reflects on the challenges posed by social class and the need for a more nuanced approach to addressing persistent inequalities. Join us as explore how borders shape the relationship between “Us and Them” in the context of partition between India and Pakistan! For Dr. Zehmisch’s academic profile: https://www.sai.uni-heidelberg.de/en/departments-and-branches/anthropology/team/dr-philipp-zehmisch Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Dr. Philipp Zehmisch and His Academic Background (05:45) Past, Present and Future in the Context of Borders (10:43) The “Inwards” and “Across” Approaches in Examining the Partition (16:03) Cultural Production and Cross-Border Collaboration (19:33) The Role of Music and Religion in Borderlands (25:13) Social Class and Caste Dynamics in Borderlands (28:16) The Shift toward Cross-Border Ethics and Human Interaction (34:02) The Changing Dynamics of “Us and Them” in the Diaspora (37:38) Methodology: Ethno-Historiography in Anthropology (41:22) The Role of Oral Histories in State and Border Dynamics (44:12) Personal Reflections (48:53) Future Projects (51:07) Outro Keywords Ambivalent Amnesty, Bordering Processes, Borders, India, Pakistan, Partition, Colonialism, South Asia, Anthropology, Migration, Cultural Production, Borderlands, Partition, Social Class, Ethno Historiography, Religion, Islam, Hinduism, Sufism, Music, Cultural Resilience, Nation States, Cross-Border Collaboration, Politics, Border Making, Identity, Human Interaction, Andaman Islands, Diaspora, Inequality, Subalternity, Caste Dynamics, Interdisciplinary Research, Methodology, Us and Them, Social Sciences, Humanities, Heidelberg University, Scientific Podcast, Academic Podcast
January 14 · 41 min
Strange Creatures - Imaging and Imagining Other Peoples – Interview with Dr. Martin Hofmann (Heidelberg University)
Dr. Martin Hofmann (Heidelberg University) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - What do old maps tell us about a society’s culture? - Why do we find these “strange imaginary creatures” in the old East Asian mapmaking tradition? - How should we read the images on old maps in order to understand them better? In the first episode of the year 2026, Dr. Martin Hofmann from the Department of Intellectual History at the Heidelberg Centre for Transcultural Studies, Heidelberg University, introduces the fields of transcultural studies and intellectual history and explains how these disciplines help us understand cultural perceptions. Dr. Hofmann elaborates on how maps function as a medium for conveying knowledge and how they mirror the epistemic ideals of different cultures. He also touches on the special features of these maps, the “imaginary creatures,” and the role they play in how cultures imagine and interpret the “other.” The conversation further explores how mapmaking practices have evolved over time, why images are so important for cultural history, and what methodological challenges arise when we try to interpret historical images today. Join us as we wander through old maps and meet their imaginary creatures! Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Dr. Martin Hofmann (02:12) Introduction to Transcultural Studies (03:48) Understanding Intellectual History (05:09) Strange Creatures: Imaging and Imagining Other Peoples (07:13) The Role of Maps in Intellectual History (10:04) Ethnographic Description of a Culture in Maps (11:14) Cultural Differences between Maps Making Traditions (13:06) Imaginary Creatures in East Asian Cartography (15:35) Historical Perception of Imaginary Creatures (17:27) Patterns among Different Imaginary Creatures (19:07) The Evolution of Mapmaking Practices (21:05) The Disappearance of Imaginary Creatures (24:00) Interaction between Cultures in Map Making (25:07) How “Imaginary” are These Creatures? (27:15) Iconic Turn and The Importance of Images in Cultural History (29:58) Methodological Considerations in Image Interpretation (33:05) Diversity of Interpretations within Cultures (37:29) Conclusion and Future Plans (41:00) Outro Keywords Transcultural Studies, Intellectual History, Cartography, Imaginary Creatures, East Asia, Maps, Cultural Perception, Research, Methodology, Visual Studies, Images, Icons, Iconic Turn, Cultural Interaction, Interdisciplinary Research, Epistemic Ideals, Image Studies, Cultural Narratives, Cultural Perceptions, Worldview, Historical Images, Heidelberg University, Us and Them, Humanities, Social Sciences, HGGS, Academic Podcast, Scientific Podcast
Dec 19, 2025 · 36 min
Determination of Criminal Responsibility: The Usability of AI in Criminal Proceedings and Implications on Human Rights – Interview with Isabell Eiwan (Heidelberg University)
Isabell Eiwan (Faculty of Law, Heidelberg University) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - What are the possible use cases for AI in criminal proceedings? - What are the limitations of AI in determining human intentions in criminal proceedings? - What might the use of AI in criminal proceedings imply for human rights? In this episode, Isabell Eiwan from the Faculty of Law at Heidelberg University and a participant in the Marsilius-Kolleg Summer School 2025 “AI and Human Values,” discusses the intersection of AI and criminal responsibility. Together, we explore what the use of AI in legal proceedings could mean in practice and what it might imply for human rights. The conversation touches on how criminal responsibility is defined, the role of free will, and the limits of AI when it comes to interpreting human intentions. Our guest, Isabell Eiwan, also highlights the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in developing AI tools for the legal system, while thoughtfully weighing both the challenges and the potential benefits of integrating AI into criminal justice. Join us as we unpack where AI meets criminal proceedings and why this convergence carries important implications for the legal system and fundamental rights! Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Isabell Eiwan (03:10) Understanding the Concept of Criminal Responsibility (04:45) The Role of Free Will in Criminal Law (08:02) AI's Limitations in Understanding Human Intentions (10:13) Current Legal Standards for Determining Criminal Responsibility and the Integration of AI (12:17) Expert Opinions and the Role of the Judge (13:27) Challenges of AI in Legal Contexts (14:35) The Impact of “Empathy” in Criminal Proceedings (16:29) The Black Box Phenomenon (18:16) Potential Benefits of AI in Criminal Justice (21:02) Should AI’s Opinions Be Binding in the Criminal Proceedings? (22:10) Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Developing AI for Criminal Law (24:15) Evaluating AI's Effectiveness in Legal Decision-Making (26:24) AI Decision-Making Process (28:37) Comparing French, British, and German Legal Studies (32:17) Personal Insights: Metal Music (36:00) Outro Keywords AI, artificial intelligence, criminal responsibility, legal responsibility, criminal law, diminished responsibility, criminal proceedings, human rights, free will, legal standards, intentions, empathy, black box phenomenon, interdisciplinary collaboration, legal technology, limitations of AI, legal decision making, AI decision making, interdisciplinary research, bias, judges, legal studies, academic podcast, scientific podcast, us and them, Heidelberg University
Dec 10, 2025 · 50 min
The Concept of “Citizen Science” and Mapping Tobacco and Alcohol Retail – Interview with Prof. Dr. Connie Hoe and Ezgi Baltacı (German Cancer Research Center)
Prof. Dr. Connie Hoe and Ezgi Baltacı (German Cancer Research Center) in conversation with Sinan Barış Yaşar (HGGS) - What should be understood by the concept of “citizen science,” and what distinguishes citizen science from other scientific approaches? - Why is it important to include the public in the scientific research process? - What insights does the mapping of tobacco and alcohol retail provide within the framework of public health research? In this episode, Professor Dr. Connie Hoe and researcher Ezgi Baltacı from the Division of Policy and Implementation Research for Cancer Prevention at the German Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum) talk about the concept of citizen science and its application in public health research, focusing on their project “Mapping Tobacco and Alcohol Retail in Mannheim, Germany.” Our guests reflect on the importance of interdisciplinary research, the benefits of involving the public in scientific work in the field of public health, the ethical considerations that come with the citizen science approach, and policy recommendations for tobacco and alcohol control. The conversation highlights the challenges of citizen science projects, the methodology used in their research, and the initial results of their mapping project, emphasizing the community’s role in shaping health behaviors. Join us as we explore citizen science and its use cases in public health research with our expert guests! Timeline (00:00) Intro (00:24) Introducing Prof. Connie Hoe and Ezgi Baltacı (03:43) Activities of the Division of Policy and Implementation Research for Cancer Prevention at the German Cancer Research Center (07:24) Interdisciplinary Research and Its Importance in the field of Public Health (08:27) Understanding Citizen Science (10:40) The Social Aspect of Citizen Science (12:32) How Citizen Science Differs from Other Scientific Research Methods? (14:13) Public Engagement and Ethics in Citizen Science (17:30) Challenges in Citizen Science Projects (18:25) Data Quality and Reliability (20:23) The Research Project “Mapping Tobacco and Alcohol Retail in Mannheim” (24:25) Methodology, Recruitment Strategies and Community Impact (28:41) Challenges during the Project “Mapping Tobacco and Alcohol Retail in Mannheim” (32:07) “Citizen Mapping Day” Experience (35:31) Initial Results of the Project (37:34) Migrant Health Research (40:08) Policy Recommendations for Regulation of Tobacco and Alcohol Consumption (43:29) Future Academic Plans (45:27) Personal reflection: What will be missed most when leaving Heidelberg? (49:30) Outro Keywords Citizen Science, Public Health, Tobacco Retail, Alcohol Retail, Interdisciplinary Research, Community Engagement, Policy Implementation, Health Behavior, Research Ethics, Heidelberg, Mannheim, German Cancer Research Center, DKFZ, Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, Mapping Project, Cancer Prevention, Health Research, Policy and Implementation Research, Heidelberg University, Ethics, Ethical Considerations, Tobacco Control, Alcohol Control, Local Health Policy, Recruitment Strategies, Public Engagement, Data Quality, Data Reliability, Community Participation, Academic Podcast, Scientific Podcast, Us and Them

Showing 1–20 of 23 episodes