Researchers at the University of Graz have been awarded three ERC Starting Grants.

kd

Eating well: an inclusive look at sustainability and nutrition

How do I eat sustainably? By buying local, seasonal food, preferably organic, and by eating less meat. This answer emerges from my situated knowledge, and it might work for me. Because it facilitates me to eat dishes that I like, and that I am familiar with. And because, due to my socio-economic privilege, I don't necessarily have to buy the cheapest products. But what do “our” ideas of sustainable eating mean for people with less financial resources? Or for people who have grown up with different food cultures and traditions? Are definitions of sustainability too narrow and exclusive? An innovative course at the University of Graz engages intercultural learning on critical approaches to sustainable eating in theory and practice. The project is funded by the Green Academia Award.

Historic: the Faculty of Catholic Theology has its first female dean

In October 2024, Katharina Pyschny will become the first woman in the 440-year history of the University of Graz to take over the deanship of the Faculty of Catholic Theology. She will be supported by a committed team that aims to shape research and teaching in a future-oriented way.

Philosopher Julian Müller: Populism and liberal democracy do not go together

Trump, Orban, Meloni, from the AfD to the Rassemblement National - right-wing populism is on the rise in Europe and other parts of the world. That is frightening. Why? Because it pretends to know what the only right thing to do is and leaves no room for other opinions. This threatens our liberal democracy. But what does liberal actually mean? Julian F. Müller, Professor of Political Philosophy at the University of Graz since April 2024, explores the question: "What unites liberal cosmopolitans apart from Netflix, Pho Ga, Apple watches, smoothies and bouldering in bunkers?" The researcher is certain that we can only protect our society, if we understand what characterises liberal thinking.