Satellite Program 2 – Doing Research in Politically Adverse Times
About this Session
Time
Fri. 17.04. 09:50
Room
Plenary Hall
Speaker
Chair: Jan-Martin Wiarda
Academic freedom is a prerequisite for critically analyzing societal developments. Yet, worldwide, precisely those fields of research are coming under increasing pressure that address social inequality, diversity, democracy, or climate change. This is particularly visible at present in the United States, where political interference, funding restrictions, and the public delegitimization of academic work are on the rise. Similar tendencies can also be observed in other countries – not least in the context of democratic erosion and the rise of populism. Against this backdrop, the panel raises the question: How do these developments affect the way we conduct research? In such contested times, should we as researchers “stay away from politics” and refrain from engaging in public debate? Or is this the moment to consider how we can participate effectively in societal discussions and become more visible in the public sphere? With many social science topics becoming increasingly politically contested, what opportunities do researchers have to bring scientific evidence into public debate, counter misinformation, and make fact-based arguments more visible? Where is the boundary between scientific integrity and political positioning? What risks arise when scholars take a public stance? The panel will also discuss which fields of research are particularly affected by the developments outlined above, whether there is a threat of “brain drain” from politically restrictive contexts, and whether Europe might—or even should—seek to benefit from it. In a fishbowl format, the panel brings together perspectives from the international academic community in an open discussion.
Academic freedom is a prerequisite for critically analyzing societal developments. Yet, worldwide, precisely those fields of research are coming under increasing pressure that address social inequality, diversity, democracy, or climate change. This is particularly visible at present in the United States, where political interference, funding restrictions, and the public delegitimization of academic work are on the rise. Similar tendencies can also be observed in other countries – not least in the context of democratic erosion and the rise of populism. Against this backdrop, the panel raises the question: How do these developments affect the way we conduct research? In such contested times, should we as researchers “stay away from politics” and refrain from engaging in public debate? Or is this the moment to consider how we can participate effectively in societal discussions and become more visible in the public sphere? With many social science topics becoming increasingly politically contested, what opportunities do researchers have to bring scientific evidence into public debate, counter misinformation, and make fact-based arguments more visible? Where is the boundary between scientific integrity and political positioning? What risks arise when scholars take a public stance? The panel will also discuss which fields of research are particularly affected by the developments outlined above, whether there is a threat of “brain drain” from politically restrictive contexts, and whether Europe might—or even should—seek to benefit from it. In a fishbowl format, the panel brings together perspectives from the international academic community in an open discussion.