The Power of Examples: Conversations in and around Comparative Culture Studies

Inaugural Lecture by Professor Andreas Bandak.

What is the role of examples in the social and cultural worlds we inhabit? And what role do they have in academic conversation? What does it mean to follow an example? What is a good example? Or, for that matter, what is a bad one? In his inaugural lecture, Andreas Bandak will reflect on the use of examples in social theory and the role of exemplarity in social life. The main argument is that the role of the example should prompt us to identify which trains of thought set local worlds in motion. Examples are critical as they allow for conversation, imitation, elucidation, and at times heated argument and contestation. The study of the use of examples is a central way to grasp how reality is conceived and given texture in local worlds. Reflecting on the power of examples invites conversations in and around cultural analysis and ethnography. Bringing anthropology into dialogue with religious studies, Syria studies, philosophy and classical and more recent sociology, Bandak probes how exemplars (as models to imitate) and exemplarity (as a social process of imitation) afford a particular avenue for engaging the models and life that they seek to instigate. Engaging the role and power of examples allows for experimentation in comparison, contextualization, and conceptualisation.

The lecture will be held in English.

Registration

The lecture is open to all. Registration for the reception is required and must be completed via the registration form by 14 September 2026.

Programme

  • 14:00: Doors close
  • 14:00–14:10: Welcome by Dean Kirsten Busch Nielsen
  • 14:10–15:00: Inaugural lecture by Professor Andreas Bandak

Reception

The Department will host a reception following the inaugural lecture in the ToRS lunchroom (Room 10-3-28). Registration is required.