Ethnography in Turbulent Times: Navigating Ethics, Impact & Engagement

The Ethnography Incubator@EUR (EIE) invites you to an inspiring event that explores the importance of interdisciplinary ethnographic research in times of crisis. In a world marked by societal polarization and misinformation, it is crucial to understand how these crises are experienced and addressed at the local level. Ethnography provides us with the tools to unravel these complex realities. 

During this event, you will discover how ethnography, as an impact-driven research and educational tool, can help question who or what is defined as a problem, gain insight into urgent societal issues, and make the experiences of marginalized groups visible. We will present groundbreaking practical examples from the new Ethnography Incubator collection and engage in an interactive panel discussion on the role of ethnography in strengthening the central mission of Erasmus University Rotterdam: creating positive societal impact. 

The Han Entzinger Award, which annually celebrates outstanding Master’s theses that contribute to our understanding of migration and diversity in contemporary society, will also be awarded during this event. 

Prepare for an afternoon filled with interdisciplinary dialogue, discussion, and collaboration, and be inspired by innovative ethnographic approaches! 

Program

• Introduction
  • Welcome address by the coordination team of the Ethnography Incubator@EUR,
  • Keynote on the contemporary relevance of ethnographic research.
• Presentation of the EIE collection
  • Thematic sessions featuring selected pieces from the collection, showcasing the diversity of ethnographic work within the EUR community and the value of this work for society and the university.
• Panel discussion
  • Focus on themes such as feminist research ethics, societal impact, and contributions to the city through ethnography,
  • Q&A session with the audience.
• Han Entzinger Award
• Closing with drinks
  • An informal reception with drinks and snacks, offering the opportunity to continue the conversation. 

For whom / target audience 

Ethnographers and other interested individuals, including researchers, educators, students, and people/organizations from the city. 

Organizer 

The Ethnography Incubator@EUR is an interdisciplinary and interfaculty platform that, in collaboration with Erasmus Initiative Vital Cities and Citizens, promotes dialogue, exchange, and collaboration among ethnographers at EUR by breaking down institutional fragmentation and fostering team science. 

The coordination team of the Ethnography Incubator@EUR consists of: 

Dr. Thomas Swerts 

Dr. Mieke Kox

Dr. Nanneke Winters 

Dr. Malika Ouacha

Kira van den Berg