The Leipzig Section offers a global perspective on social cohesion through a comparative lens. It brings together transnational, historical, and empirically analytical research on democracy, political culture, right-wing populism, political mobilization, civic participation, and media transformation.
Host Institution
The Leipzig Section of RISC is based at the Research Centre Global Dynamics (ReCentGlobe). As a central research unit of Universität Leipzig, ReCentGlobe pursues a wide range of interdisciplinary collaborations to investigate globalization processes in both historical and contemporary contexts.
Contribution to the Overarching Theme of Social Cohesion
Social Cohesion as a Dynamic Concept
Cohesion is a continuous process of negotiation. We investigate, from a broad interdisciplinary perspective, what influences cohesion and what forms it takes. These include institutional structures, political discourses, and global power relations. Our research highlights the subtle forces that hold societies together – or pull them apart – both in Germany and internationally.
Transnational and International Comparative Research
We understand social cohesion as a global phenomenon. Our comparative research focuses on regions such as southern Africa and Eastern Europe, as well as countries including China, France, and the United States. We examine how concepts of cohesion are developed, shaped, and transformed across different world regions, and how they interact with one another. These comparisons also help us evaluate how different forms of cohesion relate to democracy.
Populist Currents and Social Polarization
We study the emergence of populist and antidemocratic movements. We aim to understand why populist and far-right movements are growing in Germany and globally. In particular, we are interested in how cohesion plays a role in these developments. Using survey data, we identify when democratic cohesion exists. Our analyses trace the trajectories of polarization and explore its causes and consequences.
Local and Municipal Interests in View
We apply our expertise to analyze the political and economic dimensions of social cohesion at the local level. Our research focuses on negotiations among local interests, which can have a decisive impact on democratic structures and governance.
Youth as Seismographs of Societal Change
The perspectives of young people are of particular importance to us. We investigate how adolescents perceive and interpret societal upheavals – especially through media. Our studies combine worldviews and political socialization to show how patterns of polarization emerge during youth.
Transfer and Societal Intervention
Scientific knowledge must reach a broad audience. We aim to engage with a variety of societal groups, especially those often unheard in public discourse. We actively seek dialogue with civil society organizations, political actors, and media partners. Our transfer activities operate at international, national, and local levels, with a particular focus on developments in eastern Germany.
Part of the Coordinating Office
As one of the three coordinating Sections, Leipzig assumes central responsibilities within the research network. We coordinate the Career Development Program, advance the internationalization strategy, and colead, along with the Frankfurt Coordinating Office, RISC’s science communication in the area of press and public relations.