This module engages methodological and epistemological questions. Drawing on recent theoretical debates and on our own research, it explores options for fruitful interdisciplinary interaction of transnational, transregional, and comparative approaches. It promotes a critical stance via a twofold act of reflexivity: it scrutinizes researchers’ positionality and the path dependency of particular research traditions; and it highlights the potential of collaborative Area Studies to reveal hegemonic patterns of knowledge production.

Coordinators:

Birgit Hebel-Bauridl (UR, American Studies, REAF)

Natali Stegmann (UR, East European Studies)

Past activities:

Workshop: Key Concepts in [?] Area Studies – 13/14 July 2020