Sorry for cross-posting!
Are you working with theories of practice in your research? Just getting started? Or simply curious about what practice theory can do? Whether you're a doctoral researcher, early career scholar, established academic, or enthusiastic newcomer, you are warmly invited to join researchers from around the world for the fifth Practice Theory Gathering.
2026 Theme: Practice Theory – Paths of Obduracy and Dynamics of Change
This year's Gathering explores a central puzzle for theories of practice and beyond: how can social life appear at once characterised by rapid transformation and stubborn inertia? Through talks, discussions, and collaborative sessions, participants will reflect on how change emerges (or fails to emerge), how it materialises, and how it travels across different scales and domains of social life. The programme will draw on the expertise and experience of scholars including Anique Hommels, Brian Pentland, Elizabeth Shove, Ted Schatzki, Stanley Blue, Thomas Alkemeyer, Seweryn Rudnicki, and many others who have contributed to the Gathering over the years.
Highlights Day One (19th November) features:
- A panel debate on Paths of Obduracy and Dynamics of Change
- Ideas Playgrounds and themed discussion groups
- Mini Gatherings for sharing research and meeting colleagues
- Virtual Pubs to round off the evening
Day Two (20th November) focuses on:
- Roundtable discussions of short written submissions (up to 3,000 words)
- Small-group feedback and exchange
- Informal virtual dinner parties
Participation is free, but places are limited.
You are welcome to join for the first day only or to participate in both days by submitting a short text for discussion. Participation is free, but places are limited. To register, click here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdU7JNkgBqMDGa9O_en9gF1YEnCBP4AZ12z1g3rOJ5Cr-8vBQ/viewform?usp=header
Full details here: https://wp.lancs.ac.uk/socialpractice/the-gathering/
For questions, please contact: Josiane Fernandes – j.fernandes@lancaster.ac.uk or Manuel Baeriswyl – manuel.baeriswyl@usi.ch
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Manuel Baeriswyl
University of Lugano
Lugano
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