Conference in the Fællessalen (Common Hall) at Christiansborg, January 7, 2027, 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM
The Nordic welfare states are built on mutual trust—but this trust is under pressure. Global crises such as pandemics, climate change, and war increase the demand for simple explanations and clear distinctions between "us" and "them." This creates a risk of mistrust and antipathy—and, consequently, polarization.
At this conference, we present a range of perspectives from the humanities on the manifestations, dynamics, and causes of polarization, and invite debate on how we can collectively prevent its negative effects. We approach the issue in new ways, drawing on research in philosophy, linguistics, history, media studies, and aesthetics.
The conference is divided into four sessions:
1. What does polarization look like in Denmark?
2. The role of the media in polarization
3. Conspiracy theories as a symptom and source of conflict
4. Artistic practices and cultural resilience
Presentations will be given by the Nordic Humanities Center and a number of invited guests.
The research project comprises the following fellows: Professor Tanya Karoli Christensen (University of Copenhagen), Professor Kathrin Maurer (University of Southern Denmark), Associate Professor Kasper Grotle Rasmussen (University of Southern Denmark), Professor Anne-Marie Søndergaard Christensen, Associate Professor Line Nybro Petersen (University of Copenhagen), and Associate Professor Kim Ebensgaard Jensen.
You can read about the research group here.
The event will be held in Danish.
Following the conference, there will be an informal wrap-up over a glass of wine.
Participation is free of charge – a registration link will follow.
- Organizer: Nordic Humanities Center
- Address: Rigsdagsgården 4, 1218 København
- Contact Email: nordic@sdu.dk
- Add to your calendar: https://eom.sdu.dk:443/events/ical/9864bbfb-6902-4891-b662-082b86005767