Societal change and its effects are not only a challenge for the social, political and scientific response to crises, but also affect social groups and individuals in many different ways. In a complex world in which human behavior, personal experiences and social dynamics are closely intertwined, the numerous synergies between the humanities, social sciences and psychology are becoming increasingly important. The impact of the pandemic on mental health, education and the world of work, as well as the consequences of the modern labor market for the mental health of employees, require interdisciplinary cooperation. At the same time, psychology plays a crucial role in promoting behavioral change, resilience and the development of coping strategies in times of change and uncertainty.

The potential for collaboration between the humanities, social sciences and psychology manifests itself on several levels, which will be addressed in the workshop. First, it will focus on the ways in which humanities, social science and psychological approaches can contribute to deepening and broadening our understanding of human thought, feeling and behavior. In particular, exploring the role of psychological factors in decision-making and opinion-forming is of particular relevance.

In addition to these fundamental questions, it is also clear that the societal changes that are experienced as crises must specifically focus on the individual strategies for dealing with these crises. A concrete example of this is the analysis of trust and how it is influenced by the media, science and politics. This also includes a critical examination of the trustworthiness of science itself. Equally relevant is a deeper understanding of conflicting emotions, whether in relation to anger, prejudice, discrimination or populism. Social science studies on identity formation can be complemented by psychological insights into self-concept and identity development to provide a more comprehensive picture of human identity and its disorders. Collaboration between these disciplines will help to promote individual well-being, optimize social structures and build collective resilience to better meet the challenges of the modern world. This is crucial in order to respond appropriately to the complex societal challenges of our time.

Third, the challenges arising from the integration of these disciplines will be discussed. This includes a discussion of the benefits of both qualitative and quantitative research approaches, the use of mixed-methods research and the importance of interdisciplinary dialog for the further development of research. Combining the humanities and social sciences with psychology offers a promising approach to developing a deeper understanding of the complex nature of human beings. Interdisciplinary research opens up new perspectives and possibilities for future studies that transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries. In our joint workshop, we would like to analyze the mutual potential of psychology and the humanities and social sciences at TU Dresden and therefore address interdisciplinary questions such as:

• How is social change perceived, what individual problems and adaptation strategies emerge as a result?
• How is individual potential for action assessed in the face of social change processes?
• What can psychology teach us about human decision-making and opinion-forming?
• How is trust generated, maintained or not?
• How can societal change be used as an opportunity to develop a resilient society?
• What influences the social acceptance of technological innovation and how can it be promoted?

These interdisciplinary questions are associated with methodological and scientific-theoretical challenges:

• What can we learn from the interdisciplinary discourse on our research in terms of content and methodology?
• What links are there for interdisciplinary research and teaching?
• How can research in the humanities, social sciences and psychology be combined with other disciplines at TU Dresden?
• To what extent does the theoretical and methodological toolbox (of the disciplines involved) enable or limit the understanding/explanation of the respective research approaches and thus also social problems?

These and other questions related to the emerging field "Societal Change" and the faculty of "Psychology" will be discussed in a joint workshop of scientists from both faculties.

Agenda:

• Brief introduction of the GSW department and the Faculty of Psychology
• First reflections on shared concepts and research questions
• Developing ideas for networking activities, DFG proposals, international publications, courses or lecture series in this thematic field

If you have any questions, Chairperson for the School of Humanities and Social Sciences Prof. Dr. Christian Prunitsch and coordinator Dr. Lucas von Ramin will be available to answer them and look forward to your interest in active participation.

Please register by 01.03.2024 using the following form: workshop registration 

Attendance is limited to 25 people. The workshop is in principle suitable for German and English-speaking participants. Please note your preference and any translation requests on the registration form. We would also like to make our events as accessible as possible. Please state your requirements on the registration form.