One of the major social challenges of the future is how to successfully cope with difference and diversity.
Inclusion | Diversity | Health in Society
The Sociology of Diversity research group conducts research and teaches at the intersection of health, diversity, and social context factors with the objective of advancing social participation, equal opportunity, and inclusion. The aim is to ensure social cohesion and to deal with diversity in a multi-dimensionally and just manner.
The focus is especially on systems and structures in prevention and rehabilitation in a diverse society. Inclusion in change (in a national and global perspective/SDGs) looks at the complex relationship between social living with differences. Interactions between diversity dimensions (intersectionality) are considered as well as patterns of dominance (social inequality and power dynamics). Special attention is paid to the respective effects on the quality of life (wellbeing) in the case of functional and social impairment and disability (equality rights and barrier-free contexts).
In participatory and primarily qualitative field studies, discourse and reflection are invited. The focus is on social innovation processes, with particular attention to social differences and equitable participation opportunities for all. The group also works in close cooperation with various scientific disciplines and different expertise in practice, civil society, business and politics.
Across faculties and universities, the Sociology of Diversity group is also involved in the development and implementation of diversity and One Health concepts.
(Sources: Gardenswartz, Lee, Rowe, Anita (1998). Managing diversity in health care. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.; United Nations: https://sdgs.un.org/2030agenda)