07.10.25, 19:30, Sigrid Wallaert, Taylor Swift en de grenzen van academische kennis

In recent years, there has been no denying it: Taylor Swift is everywhere, including at university. But how far does her influence actually extend? In this lecture, we will take a closer look at the so-called Swiftian Turn in academia and how it challenges academic ideals of knowledge and expertise. The line between fan and researcher is blurring, and new types of knowledge are being produced. What does it mean for science when Taylor Swift enters our lecture halls and journals? And does the pop star also influence current politics and feminism?

After the lecture, Sigrid Wallaert will talk to researcher Barbara van Dijck.

• Sigrid Wallaert is a postdoctoral researcher in philosophy at Ghent University. Her research focuses on knowledge injustice, feminist anger, medical humanities, and sometimes Taylor Swift. Her first book, Kwaad spreken: Wie gelooft de boze vrouw?, was published by Letterwerk in 2023.
• Barbara Van Dyck is a political agroecologist and ecofeminist. She is currently affiliated with the Agroecology Lab at the Université Libre de Bruxelles. In her work as a researcher and activist, she focuses on the intertwining of technology, knowledge, power, and politics in agriculture. In this way, she aims to contribute to sharpening our collective imagination, to make room for practices in which care for vulnerable and finite life is paramount.

This lecture is held in Dutch

This lecture will take place in the MIRY Concert Hall. The hall is wheelchair accessible via a lift to the first floor. A sign language interpreter will be provided for this lecture. If you have any further questions about accessibility facilities, please contact the organisation: anais.vanertvelde@hogent.be. Questions can be asked on site to the student assistant at the desk.