Welcome – Insights from the Frontlines of Social Science
Insights & Conversations, a platform dedicated to social insight, where leading researchers and professionals in the social sciences share their experiences, reflections, and expertise through engaging video conversations.
These conversations are designed to go beyond academic publications, bringing research into open, accessible dialogue. By focusing on the craft of research as a way of understanding the social world, we aim to present ideas in a way that’s relatable and easy to grasp—even for those without a formal background in the field. From theoretical foundations to practical challenges in the field, each talk reveals the human side of research and the thinking behind it.
One of our core goals is to bridge the gap between scholarly research and everyday understanding. We believe that research should not be confined to journals and institutions but should live in conversations that inspire curiosity, reflection, and real-world impact. Whether you’re a student, early-career researcher, practitioner, or simply curious about how society works, this space invites you to explore social science as a living, evolving craft—rich with insight, driven by inquiry, and grounded in experience. Meet the inspiring researchers and professionals who have shared their journeys, challenges, and ideas on Perspectives. Each conversation offers a unique window into the practice of social research—from fieldwork experiences and methodological reflections to critical discussions on society, policy, and human behaviour. These individuals bring depth, clarity, and authenticity to the topics they explore, helping bridge the gap between academic research and everyday understanding.
Dr. Wendy Harcourt
Erasmus University, The Netherlands
Dr. Wendy Harcourt, professor of gender diversity and sustainable development at the International Institute of Social Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, discusses her book Body Politics in Development: Critical Debates in Gender and Development. In the interview, she offers deeper insights into body politics, the complexity of social experiences, and contemporary gender development. Reflecting on her work and personal journey, she highlights gender as both a social and political construct.
Dr. Zeliha Öcek
Ludwig-Maximilians University. Munich, Germany
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Sylvia Agbih
University of Augsburg. Germany
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Dr Kristina Göransson
Lund university, Sweden
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Dr. Julian Reid
University of Lapland, Finland
Oxytocin and its Role in Political and Social Life
In this interdisciplinary lecture, Professor Julian Reid, a leading scholar in international politics and biopolitics, explores the intersection of neuroscience and political science. He examines how discoveries in neurobiology—particularly the role of oxytocin—are shaping concepts of resilience, governance, and the organization of human life in the twenty-first century.
Dr. Marta Moskal
University of Glasgow, UK
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Dr. Eleni Kalantidou
Griffith University, Australia
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Dr. Tiina Lehto-Lundén
University of Jyväskylä, Finland
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Dr. Salma Siddiqui
NUST, Pakistan
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Dr Enni Mikkonen
University of Lapland, Finland
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Minna Larvio
Researcher (Finland)
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Anna Nádasi
Social Worker (Finland)
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Dr. Patric Nordbeck
Lund University, Sweden
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Dr. Julia Bahner
Lund University, Sweden
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Dr. Andrea García-Santesmases
National Distance Education University, Spain
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Dr. Helen Kara
Leading Independent Researcher / Author, UK
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Dr. Sara Kauko
Lund University, Sweden
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Dr. Syeda Shahida Batool
GC University, Pakistan
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Dr. Lagunathan Govender
Lund University, Sweden
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Living Social Science
We warmly invite researchers, practitioners, and anyone engaged in the social sciences to share their personal or professional experiences on Perspectives. Whether you’re reflecting on your research journey, discussing a specific project, or offering insights into the practice of understanding the social world, your voice matters. This platform is a space for open, thoughtful conversations that bring research to life beyond academic texts. If you’re interested in contributing, feel free to reach out—we’ll discuss how it can take shape. Your interview will be published here and shared on our YouTube channel, helping make your insights accessible to a wider, curious audience.
