Research Project | Precarious Participation in Socio-Ecological Transformation Processes

On Subjective Perspectives on Sustainable Change Against the Backdrop of Social Inequalities

The current eco-social crises require a fundamental transformation of prevailing lifestyles. Structural changes affect subjective experiences, but are themselves dependent on subjective changes: in this respect, structural and subjective transformations are intertwined. For transformation to succeed, a deeper understanding of this intertwining is needed, taking into account the socio-political conditions.

Because social justice is both a goal and a necessity, ecological and social crises must be considered and addressed together. This project therefore places particular emphasis on the significance of social inequality for participation in socio-ecological transformation processes.

Project Team

Project lead:
Katharina Hametner (katharina.hametner@sfu.ac.at), Ivo Ponocny, Markus Wrbouschek, Emelie Rack, Monika Gritsch, Isabel von Hansemann
Julia Riegler (Vienna University)

Interns:
Hannah Josef

Method

The project is being implemented in teaching on a project basis within the framework of qualitative methodology (at SFU Vienna and the University of Vienna). Specifically, the courses PS Qualitative Methods I & II (Psy BSc German and IPP) and UE Qualitative Methods I & II (Psy MSc German) are involved at SFU.

Research Questions and Hypotheses
  1. How do different socio-economic milieus experience and live through socio-ecological transformation processes?
  2. What subjective constellations of success and failure in socio-ecological transformation processes can be identified?
  3. What role do subjective perspectives of a ‘good life’ play in this?

Project Duration

1 Sept. 2025 – 30 Sept. 2026

Events

Sustainability Dialogues III: Precarious Participation in Socio-Ecological Transformation Processes
Thursday, June 11, 2026, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

If you are interested in the research project, please contact katharina.hametner@sfu.ac.at

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