International Conference: Transformations in Critical Times. Perspectives from the Environmental Humanities

As the opening and closing conference of the IDK, Transformations in Critical Times. Perspectives from the Environmental Humanities brings together an international and interdisciplinary community of scholars to address the urgent calls for transformation in an era marked by profound social, political, and environmental challenges. With a particular focus on the socio-environmental dimensions of these crises, the conference explores both the theoretical implications and practical meanings that scientists, politicians, activists, and broader publics associate with transformation.

While engaging with recent developments, the conference also situates them within their respective historical contexts, tracing how current transformations unfold on global, regional, and local levels, how they are connected to past experiences, and how they intersect with culturally specific visions of possible futures.

The conference will take place on November 6–7, 2025, in Augsburg.

Keynote lectures will be delivered by Martin Puchner on “Literature for a Changing Planet” and Julia Steinberger on “Science, Advocacy and Activism.”

A preliminary draft of the programis available here.