Societies and Spaces in Contact: Between Convergence and Divergence

This volume discusses convergence and divergence in ethnos and demos, focusing on social integration and devolution in Central Europe. It assesses past developments, analyzes current policies, and evaluates future trends for co-operation and re-integration.

Format: Hardback
Length: 278 pages
Publication date: 06 July 2021
Publisher: Peter Lang AG

This comprehensive volume brings together experts from various fields to explore and analyze fundamental categories of convergence and divergence, with a particular focus on the issues of social integration and devolution related to ethnos as the space of identity and demos as the space of polity. The primary objectives of the book are to assess the past developments within crucial parts of Central Europe, where both conflict and coexistence potentials seem to best represent the challenging dilemma of managing "unity in diversity" effectively. Through an in-depth analysis of current approaches to minority protection, language planning, spatial and social cross-border and inter-cultural policies, the book aims to provide valuable insights into the current state of affairs. Additionally, it seeks to develop an evaluation of the future trends and opportunities for cooperation and re-integration within a local and broader operational context.

The book is organized into four distinct chapters, each dedicated to exploring different aspects of convergence and divergence. In the first chapter, the authors provide a historical overview of Central Europe, highlighting the region's complex and multifaceted past. They examine the historical roots of ethnic and linguistic diversity, as well as the various conflicts and struggles that have shaped the region's political and social landscape. The chapter also explores the role of national identities and the emergence of nation-states in Central Europe, emphasizing the challenges and opportunities that have come with this development.

In the second chapter, the authors examine the current approaches to minority protection, language planning, and spatial and social cross-border and inter-cultural policies in Central Europe. They discuss the challenges and successes of these policies, as well as the potential for further development and improvement. The chapter also explores the role of regional and international organizations in promoting social integration and devolution, and the potential for cooperation and collaboration between different stakeholders.

In the third chapter, the authors analyze the future trends and opportunities for cooperation and re-integration within a local and broader operational context. They discuss the potential for increased inter-ethnic and inter-cultural dialogue and cooperation, as well as the challenges and barriers to achieving this goal. The chapter also explores the role of technology and social media in promoting social integration and devolution, and the potential for these tools to be used for positive change.

In the fourth and final chapter, the authors draw conclusions and offer recommendations based on the findings of the previous chapters. They emphasize the importance of promoting social integration and devolution as a means of achieving sustainable peace and stability in Central Europe. They also call for increased investment in education, research, and policy development to support these efforts.

Overall, this volume provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of the complex issues of convergence and divergence in Central Europe. It offers valuable insights into the past, present, and future trends and opportunities for social integration and devolution in the region. The book will be of interest to scholars, policymakers, and practitioners working in the fields of politics, sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies.

Weight: 431g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783631855393
Edition number: New ed