Sociology of Knowledge Approach to Discourse (SKAD)

The Sociology of Knowledge Approach to Discourse (SKAD) is an approach to social science discourse and dispositive research introduced in the early 2000s. It integrates power/knowledge and discourse related ideas of Michel Foucault with traditions within the sociology of knowledge and includes a corresponding research methodology (Keller 2024). The approach has informed and informs a variety of discourse related research in German-speaking countries and is also widely used in international contexts.

The proposed English-language working group will provide a forum for intensifying and consolidating international exchange on SKAD within the framework of DiscourseNet. In terms of content, the focus will be on questions relating to the theory and methodology of SKAD, to research currently working with it, and to possible further developments. Additional focal points will of course depend on the interests of the participants.

The working form will initially be a bi-monthly online meeting; face-to-face events are planned as part of DiscourseNet conferences.