Maarten Hajer appointed honorary professor in Copenhagen
Maarten Hajer, Professor of Political Science at the University of Amsterdam and Director of the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency (PBL), was recently appointed honorary professor at the University of Copenhagen’s Political Science department.
Maarten Hajer, Professor of Political Science at the University of Amsterdam and Director of the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency (PBL), was recently appointed honorary professor at the University of Copenhagen’s Political Science department. He will hold his inaugural speech in Denmark on 26 April.
Hajer was appointed to the post in recognition of his impressive academic career and the way in which he has managed to link science to practice. The University of Copenhagen’s application report praised his research into political discourse and its patterns of change. ‘We're often told to listen to what's really behind the words of politicians, to uncover their ulterior motives. What I do is look at the statements themselves: the phraseology and vocabulary they use. It’s the discourse itself and how it changes that enables coalitions to form between parties.’
Odd tipping points
The University of Copenhagen has also indicated a strong interest in Hajer’s research into the role of “other actors” in politics. ‘That involves looking not just at politicians and others in power but also at the public, consumers and action groups. I’m particularly interested in what I call the “odd tipping points”. A good example is the decision to sink the former Brent Spar oil rig. Shell complied with all the rules, but the sinking still unleashed a row as a result of Greenpeace’s involvement. Mars bars are another example: thanks to the pressure applied by the action groups, from 2012 these will contain only sustainably sourced cocoa, and from 2015 only sustainably sourced palm oil as well. It’s very interesting to study that change in the concept of power and influence.'
Bridging science and practice
As the Director of the Netherlands Environment Assessment Agency (PBL), Hajer has successfully bridged the gap between science and practice. This was another important factor behind the University of Copenhagen’s decision to offer him an honorary professorship. Hajer is delighted with the appointment, commenting: ‘It’s an honorary position, of course. But having a special relationship with another university is a very useful way of fostering collaboration among academics.'
Author: Esther van Bochove, FMG Communication