Why?

The impact of global and geopolitical crises on European societies is widely felt. Common reactions to these are a growing societal divide and a rise in anti-democratic positions. The public imaginary is rife with a rhetoric dominated by the erection of walls, the demarcation of territory and claims of ownership. Crushed between polarised camps are vulnerable members of our societies – and thus humanity itself. Individuals with their complex identities are categorised into groups whose belonging, right to existence even, is called into question.  

Campaign Image Ties That Bind Us

More than a lecture series: a counter-imaginary space to reductive binary thinking

Understanding the realities of diversity and change as given raises questions: How exactly are our individual experiences in the social world shaped? And what is that social world that impacts us: A mesh or mosaic of influences? Which of them become the “ties that bind us”, that dominate our experience and perspective? We need to reckon with these questions if we want to engage with others in a meaningful way. Addressing them requires not only analytical skills but also an open mind and imagination. Join us and meet inpirational scholars, authors, artists and critical thinkers – speakers who open up counter-imaginary spaces that challenge reductive concepts of belonging and conviviality. 

At VUB, you're free to ask questions about everything, to make up your own mind and to change your mind. We invite you to join us in the Ties That Bind Us lectures, readings, performances and debates and to explore new perspectives on belonging, conviviality, solidarity and diversity in a changing world. 

Save the dates

Next on the agenda of the Ties That Bind Us series:

  • 17 February 2025 – Manuelina Maria Duarte Cândido – Museologist - From Nouvelle muséologie to Social Museology: Current Practices in Insurgent Museologies
  • March 2025 – Tim Ingold – Social Anthropologist – Manifesto for a New Humanism 
  • 6 May 2025 – Caryl Phillips – Writer – Another Man in the Street: Reading and Conversation
     

Do you want to receive invitations for upcoming Ties That Bind Us events? 

REGISTER FOR THE MAILING LIST

The VUB scholars behind the series

The world needs you

This initiative is part of VUB's public programme: a programme for everyone who believes that scientific knowledge sharing, critical thinking and dialogue are an important first step to create impact in the world. 

As an Urban Engaged University, VUB aims to be a driver of change in the world. With our academic edcuational programmes and innovative research, we contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations and to making a difference locally and globally.

Create more impact Receive invitations for VUB's public activities