About VAN
Find out more about the Vienna Anthropocene Network
Mission Statement
Mission Statement
Research for a future we want to live in — The Anthropocene presents challenges to all academic fields. As a new geochronological epoch it redefines the human relationship to the planet in ecological terms with consequences that are also historical, social, and ethical. Bringing together the humanities and the sciences, our network comprises scholars from geology, geography, the life sciences, history, philosophy, political science, literary and cultural studies, STS, anthropology and a range of area studies. Drawing on this broad interdisciplinary base, we will explore the new perspectives on nature, culture, society, and technology that the Anthropocene urgently solicits. We furthermore aim to convey an understanding of the significance of the Anthropocene to a wider audience of policy makers, teachers, journalists and the public at large.
Key Objectives
- Promoting multi- and interdisciplinary research on the Anthropocene
- Facilitating collaboration between the humanities, social and natural sciences
- Advancing our understanding of human impact on the planet
- Tackling complex global problems and contributing to possible solutions
