What have different academic disciplines to say about connection, and what are the connections between such diverging approaches? 

Connection - or the absence thereof - seems a core element in the constitution of today’s society. Locally, nationally, regionally and globally, there is much that divides among humans and non-human sentient beings.

There is a growing awareness of the absence of connection. This is the culmination of an ongoing process that academics have noticed and warned about since the beginning of industrialisation in the West (Comte, Nietzsche, ….).

At this juncture of the life of humanity, and the planet, connectedness is more than ever needed as humans are faced with climate change and biodiversity loss that may make Earth uninhabitable. This is not the only major issue confronting humankind: acute inequality in the fulfilment of basic needs and requirements for mental and spiritual development takes its toll. And there are other, divisive issues, within and between societies and cultures. 

Our challenges require open minds, ingenuity, imagination and …. connection. Between academics of different disciplines, between science and society, between countries and continents, between human and non-human animals. This is what this course is about: exploring connection and seeking to restore it. 

In this course, we will jointly explore the theme of connection, from various angles: academically, from different disciplines; personally, from the participants’ own experience and outlook; and socially, from getting out into the streets and on-line and exploring the demand for connection and what society has on offer. Initially, the emphasis will be on social connection and society’s needs. Guest lecturers will explore the theme from their disciplines. Also, we may endeavour to look beyond the scope of inter-human connection. 

Timetable

We now expect that all lectures can take place on-campus. In case the situation changes, you will be notified. You can find the timetable on Datanose.

Registration

Registration is open for first-year, second-year or third-year Bachelor's students participating in an Honours programme. Between 30 November 10 am and 3 December 11 pm, you can register by completing the online registration form that will appear on Honoursmodules IIS. Placement is random and students will hear within two weeks for which course(s) they are registered.

Please note: There is no guarantee for placement if you register after December 3, so make sure you register on time. For questions about registration, please contact us at Honours-iis@uva.nl.

More information