Cosmopolitan research and public thinking: putting oneself to the test of reality

Abstract

This paper returns to the theme of the academic turn to cosmopolitanism as a response to the challenges of globalisation, conflict, inequality and diversity discussed here previously. The discussion of cosmopolitanism here refers to the context of current policy relating to research and what it means to be a researcher in the European Union today or, as current policy frames it, ‘the Innovation Union’. The understanding of the researcher found in current policy relates closely to the particular understanding of citizenship promoted in Europe today, consisting in active participation, mobility, adaptability and innovation, that is permanent learning for permanent adaptation to our current conditions. This understanding of citizenship and of research works in the name of democracy, community and their sustainability; and respect for diversity and equality and intercultural dialogue are important facets.

Keywords::

• cosmopolitanism
• researcher
• Foucault
• Emerson
• public
• university

Acknowledgements

I wish to thank all those who participated in the PESGB Roehampton University Postgraduate Summer School for their helpful comments and questions and rich discussion. This work forms part of a research project ‘The Researcher and the Innovation Union’ funded by the Philosophy of Education Society of Great Britain (PESGB).

Notes

This paper was originally prepared for the 2013 PESGB Postgraduate Summer School held at Roehampton University, UK.