Lagerhuisdebat: Activism by researchers and research supporters

On Tuesday 1 October, the Lagerhuis debate ‘Activism by researchers and research supporters’, led by Erik van Sebille, professor of Oceanography and Public Engagement.

Researchers and research supporters are not only expected to work on excellent research, they are also expected to have an impact on society. While individual researchers and research supporters choose different ways to have such an impact, ranging from outreach to protest actions, there is no consensus within the research community on which form of engagement is the most effective nor a unique answer to the crucial question whether activism impacts the credibility of those engaging in it.

This workshop will include a debate (‘lagerhuis’-style) to collect and test arguments for and against activism by researchers and research supporters. The audience will be randomly divided into two groups, with the assignment to prepare arguments in favour or against a specific form of activism. The groups will then be given the opportunity to exchange their positions during a short debate. The goal is to sharpen the thinking within the audience on when (or when not) people working in and around research can and ought to be activistic.

Take a look at the full programme of the Utrecht Science Week: https://utrechtscienceweek.nl/en/editon-24/