Foto Guy Ackermans The practical application of Social Sciences learning material is not always evident. I followed a lecture on Alternative thinking of alternatives, facilitated by the Public Administration and Policy group. If the current alternatives can’t save the planet and its inhabitants, we will have to seek alternatives. That search calls for a new knowledge theory. Societal criticism and a meta-analysis of the meta-analysis. Still there? Interesting for enthusiasts, but I find myself wondering: what employer could be looking for such insights?
Social scientist Joris Luyendijk serves as a shining example. He excels at being concrete and provides a generous amount of practicability in addition to his own social criticism and meta-analyses. For example, in his anthropological analysis of the financial crisis. I learned more about the financial crisis from Joris than from all of my economy courses at WUR combined. While seated in an abstract lecture, I think: I wish there were more Joris Luyendijks.
I learned more about the financial crisis from Joris than from all of my economy courses at WUR combined
And precisely this man has released a new book with a passionate appeal for fewer people like Joris Luyendijk! Give them less power over societal issues! This requires a 180-degree turn, but Joris is convincing, as always.
In short: Privileged Dutch have difficulty imagining what it feels like to not comply with the dominant standard. If you have not experienced it, it is difficult to understand related issues, never mind determining how they can best be addressed. Joris found this out when he failed to meet certain standards in England for the first time. He defines seven major indicators of privilege: the seven ticks. I hope this does not yet convince you, my reader, and encourage you to read the interview (leads to Dutch) or book.
I hope this does not yet convince you, my reader, and encourage you to read the interview or book
Joris’ criticism is sharp as a razor. But there was also criticism. During a TV interview with Joris, the eighty-year-old former vice-president of the European Commission, Neelie Kroes, is present. She bluntly states: ‘If I want to read a book, I will choose a decent one.’ She has understood nothing of the inequality issue. That people like her are ill-equipped for this was precisely one of the book’s key topics, which she rejects without having read it. Few people can afford such cringeworthy arrogance. This not-so-great madam Kroes is stuck. So much so that even Joris’ sharp razor cannot cut her loose. A lecture in Alternative thinking of alternatives would benefit her.
Steven is a master’s student of Economy and Governance and enjoys playing squash. He is always open to a game of squash and a good conversation. You can reach him by email.
