German Research Foundation funds new DFG Research Unit on “Media Practices of Contradicting in Networked Publics”
News from Sep 18, 2026
The German Research Foundation (DFG) is funding a new research unit that examines how contradicting, the public sphere, and participation in democracy intersect and interact.
In the research unit titled “Media Practices of Contradicting in Networked Publics” (FOR 6017), researchers from several German universities are investigating forms of contradicting in contemporary digital and historical public spheres - particularly under conditions of social inequality. In times of contention and polarization, these research projects will provide insights into the conditions necessary for successful participation in processes of democratic negotiation.
The research unit’s spokesperson is Prof. Dr. Margreth Lünenborg, Professor of Communication Studies with a focus on journalism research at the Institute for Media and Communication Studies. Prof. Dr. Carola Richter, professor of international communication at our institute, will serve as deputy spokesperson and a project lead.