Laurin Mackowitz

2017-2018

Laurin Mackowitz, PhD Candidate in Philosophy at the University of Innsbruck, Austria

Born in a time and place of immense social security and relative peace I have often felt obliged to dedicate my energy to the cultural advancement of humanity, a term that despite its ambiguity is central to both my thinking and my determination. From the time on when I was first startled by the wonders and atrocities brought into this world by various members of mankind, I have been striving for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms and driving forces that structure human cultures.

My current research is focused on secular interpretations of the Exodus. This biblical tale of the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt remains the most influential narrative of emancipation. While Sigmund Freud, Thomas Mann, Arnold Schoenberg, Michael Walzer and most recently Paolo Virno, Antonio Negri and Isabell Lorey have criticized nationalist and messianic re-narrations of the myth, they have also recognized its pertinence in putting emancipatory efforts on a cognitive map, thereby shaping a secular narrative of cosmopolitan endeavors for liberation. This not only denies the alleged end of grand narratives but is also relevant for both describing and prescribing human efforts of emancipation from oppression or voluntary servitude.

Carl-Johannes Rokitansky

2013-2014

Carl-Johannes Rokitansky, PhD Candidate the University of Innsbruck, Austria

After graduating in German literature, I started my PhD program at the University of Innsbruck. Since 2011 I give introductory classes for future teachers. Teaching at University and working with students was a brand new experience for me and I am enjoying it very much. It offers the chance to see my subject from a different point of view.

After finishing my diploma thesis in which I concentrated on Jean Baudrillard’s simulation model and the integration of it in Wolfgang Hilbig’s novel Ich, I first wanted to examine the outcomes by comparing other novels in regard to Baudrillard’s model. But I decided to start something different. In my dissertation project I now concentrate on ‘Weltflucht’ (escapism) in artist novels. As a result of the change in society at the end of the 18th century, the modern artist becomes an outcast of society. He is often lonesome and in danger of seeking refuge in other personalities like Oscar Matzerath in Grass’ Blechtrommel or Stiller in Frisch’s novel of the same name. Alcoholism also often is a form of escapism when there is talk of artists in novels. Remarkable is that ‘Weltflucht’ almost always is linked to a change of location. In my dissertation I want to compare different novels under this point of view to work out similarities as well as differences. As theoretical background I chose Pierre Bourdieu’s Die Regeln der Kunst which ensures the comparison with the contemporary situation.

Coming to Edmonton as a research fellow of the Wirth institute is a unique chance for me to get in contact with interesting people in international surroundings. It is also a chance for exchanging ideas and experiences. I am curious about Canada with its people and life and its culture.