In Search of Common Ground, Reflections on articulating concepts and theoretical orientations in CERES

Abstract

The board and directorate of CERES research school have initiated a synthesizing study of the various research programmes and projects which are part of the school. The objective was first of all to construct an overview of the variety of research questions and topics that are being studied by CERES researchers. On the basis of this overview our task has been to deduct the main lines or common ground within this wide variety of research projects and interests focusing particularly on concepts which emerge from the various research interests and demonstrate a capacity to bring together various research lines and working programmes. In this respect we use the terms articulating or clustering concepts. Our aim was furthermore to bring together and develop these concepts into a framework which reflects the common ground of CERES research. This common ground may guide ongoing and future development of CERES and clarify the identity and positioning of the school