410003 SE Transformations: Theories, concepts and history (2019W)

Based on Karl Polanyi´s pathbreaking book "The Great Transformation", that was published 75 years ago, the doctoral seminar will deal with theories, concepts and historical cases of transformation. Based on Polanyi we will discuss especially the relationship between society and free market. The concept of a dialectical "double movement" may also helps us to understand the recent backlash against the hegemonial neoliberal world order that was established after 1989. The seminar will also discuss other periods of transformation, e.g. after the demise of the continental empires after World War I and after 1945. Transformations can be broadly defined as accelerated and synchronous change of the economy, politics, society and culture. Doctoral students with a specialization in the aforementioned periods are especially welcome, as well as speakers of an eastern and/or southern European language.
Furthermore, the seminar serves the preparation of the next Graduate Student Conference for European History (Graceh), which will be held at the EUI in Florence in late April 2020. A CfP for the conference may be expected in the fall. The seminar will be organized in cooperation with the Research Cluster for the History of Transformations (RECET). As a preparation the participants are also welcome to attend the roundtable on the revolutions of 1989 and the subsequent transformation that will be organized on Oct. 24. in the Aula at the campus.