Transformation Dialogue: Language Change and Political Activism

Is transformation an empty label or does the concept carry real substance? On the one hand, scholars and activists continually coin new terms—such as degrowth or energy transitions—that diagnose unwanted social conditions and articulate alternative visions of more just, sustainable, or equitable futures. On the other hand, these concepts risk becoming the primary arena in which transformation takes place, displacing material, political, and institutional change into a linguistic register. The dialogue probes the tension between transforming words and transforming worlds, asking when conceptual innovation enables social change and when it substitutes for it. Attendees gain a deeper understanding for how neologisms—e.g., decarbonization, pluriverse, or rewilding—conjure real-world change and enable (or constrain) political activism.

The dialogue will be chaired by Dr. Anke Gruendel (Leuphana Transformation Lab).

Prof. Dr. Gretchen Bakke is an anthropologist whose work examines how morphological changes in language help produce new worlds. Her research chronicles the transformation of the known world, with a focus on oil’s fade from dominance as a fuel, as an industry, as a driver of markets, and as a way of life.

Prof. Dr. Matthias Schmelzer is an economic historian and transformation researcher whose work explores the growth paradigm, fossil mentalities, and degrowth. He examines debates on alternative economic models and their translation into political activism.

The Transformation Dialogues bring together two scholars from different disciplines to engage in conversation about how transformation is invoked today. The term is increasingly used in academia, politics, and society, yet its meaning often remains vague. This event series by the Leuphana Transformation Lab creates a space for interdisciplinary exchange, in which each scholar’s distinct research focus contributes to a vibrant discussion about transformation.

Each event features short presentations, a moderated conversation, and audience Q&A. By embracing a plurality of perspectives and allowing productive tensions to emerge, the series challenges us to think critically: What work does the term “transformation” do in contemporary discourse?

The event is open to the university community; no registration is required to attend.

Leuphana Transformation Lab