Hohaus, Eva-Maria
Congratulations on passing the colloquium on 25 June 2014.
Dissertation topic:
"Multiculturalism in theory and practice - a productive tension?"
Publication of the dissertation
Scholarship in accordance with the Bavarian Elite Support Act (1 September 2011-31 August 2013).
Contact address at the University of Würzburg:
Institute of Philosophy
Chair of Practical Philosophy II
Residence - South Wing
97070 Würzburg
First supervisor: Prof. Dr Karl Mertens
Second supervisor:
Prof. Dr Christine Chwaszcza, University of Cologne (until 30 March 2014)
PD Dr Michael Becker (from 31 March 2014)
Class in the Graduate School: "Philosophy, Languages, Arts"
Doctorate in the Graduate School since WS 2009/2010
Abstract:
Normative theory and practical experience are not a pair of opposites, but rather stand in a reciprocal relationship of tension. Starting from this basic assumption, the interdisciplinary study develops a discussion of the relationship between philosophical-normative reflection and social practice. Using the example of three exemplary cases of conflict surrounding Islamic symbols and rites (headscarf, mosque construction, ritual slaughter) as well as selected theories of the socio-philosophical discourse on multiculturalism, the study explores the possibilities of mutual criticism and connectivity. By methodically linking theoretical and empirical approaches, it succeeds in presenting a constructive theoretical proposal that offers orientation with regard to the tensions in question. It becomes clear that the interplay between the disciplines proves to be promising in view of the multicultural challenges facing our society.
Normative theory and practical experience do not sharply conflict with one another, but are interwoven intensively. Ensuing from this hypothesis, the interdisciplinary study explores the relationship between philosophical reasoning and social practice. Starting from three exemplary cases of tensions and debates regarding Islamic symbols and rites (headscarf, building of mosques, ritual slaughter) and selected theories out of the socio-philosophical discourse of multiculturalism, the study aims at investigating not only how normative theory and social practice are consistent with one another but also how they are capable of being connected to each other. By combining different methodological (empirical and theoretical) approaches a constructive outcome to the theoretical debate of multiculturalism can be achieved. It is shown: A combination of different methodological approaches proves to be promising in the face of today's multicultural challenges.
