“Discourse, Power, Masculinity”

In the summer semester of 2025, Dr. Tim Griebel (former research associate and current deputy head of the “Political Communication and Policy” department at BAMF) will once again offer the interdisciplinary seminar “Discourse, Power, Masculinity,” which is open to a wide range of degree programs.

The seminar is based on the fundamental assumption that social reality in general—and masculinity in particular—is not simply given but is rather constructed within discourses, i.e., within systems of meaning. The power of discourse lies precisely in its ability to render phenomena such as masculinity understandable in a specific way, thereby both limiting and enabling alternative interpretations. Various constructions of masculinity thus illustrate that the personal is always political. Accordingly, the seminar explores the nexus of discourse, power, and masculinity in different contexts beyond the traditionally understood political sphere, such as pop culture, sports, and media.

At the same time, the empirical question concerning different forms of masculinity is linked to the normative question of which types of masculinity contribute to a good life and human emancipation—and which hinder these goals.

In examining these questions through a self-chosen subject of study, students will also gain insight into the methodological toolkit of various discourse analysis approaches and scientific working techniques. This will not only provide a foundation for developing and answering independent research questions on masculinity constructions from a discourse-analytical perspective but will also enhance critical analytical skills regarding political reality and foster reflection on the conditions and possibilities of responsible action in society.

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