How can society be better understood? Why does capitalist modernity seem to be both crisis-ridden and hyper-stable at the same time? How is inequality produced, how is power distributed, and how is it exercised? Whose security is defended, and how? What roles do corporations, protest movements, city administrations, and other actors play in processes of change and transformation? Which futures still appear possible today, or have become newly possible, and what role does digitalization play in this? And what remains of sustainability and climate protection in times of regression and growing authoritarianism?

 

Sociology offers a Bachelor’s program and a consecutive Master’s program. In addition, the subject area contributes to teacher education programs through the “Social Sciences” track (B.A. and M.Ed.). Teaching in sociology is closely linked to our many research activities: students begin conducting independent research projects at an early stage. Alongside theoretical foundations and methodological analytical tools, our courses are structured into five areas: (1) climate change, sustainability, and ecological transformation; (2) economy, organizations, and social structure; (3) culture, knowledge, and science; (4) digital media, data, and networks; (5) security, violence, and catastrophes.

 

We currently have the following professorships and research areas: