Internationally renowned theorist Teun van Dijk visited Prague and discussed cooperation with FSV UK

Researchers from the Institute of Political Studies FSV UK are working on a project focusing on research on online and offline extremism with the aim of understanding the deeper causes of radicalisation of individuals and groups – both on social media and in everyday life. The project would involve the participation of Teun van Dijk, a world-renowned expert in discourse studies, who visited Prague as part of this collaboration.

He offered a series of lectures entitled Words that Shape Worlds. These focused on the importance of Critical Discourse Studies within the broader social sciences, understanding its usefulness in various subfields, and also the ideology of the far right, its discourse and impact on society.

The IPS researchers now aim to formalise the collaboration with a prominent theorist over the next year to allow for more internships and teaching opportunities. In this context, Prof. van Dijk himself is taking steps to establish a large network of academics under the umbrella of the Centre of Discourse Studies, together with other scholars.

“The idea of creating a network of scholars linked to the Centre is just a first idea. One of the aims of such a network would be to organise international seminars, both online and face-to-face, for PhD students who specialise in discourse studies,” said Prof. van Dijk during his visit.

You can find more information on the website about science at FSV UK.